US20050066843A1 - Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher - Google Patents
Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050066843A1 US20050066843A1 US10/754,466 US75446604A US2005066843A1 US 20050066843 A1 US20050066843 A1 US 20050066843A1 US 75446604 A US75446604 A US 75446604A US 2005066843 A1 US2005066843 A1 US 2005066843A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- paintball
- sabot
- ring airfoil
- launcher
- ring
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41B—WEAPONS FOR PROJECTING MISSILES WITHOUT USE OF EXPLOSIVE OR COMBUSTIBLE PROPELLANT CHARGE; WEAPONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F41B11/00—Compressed-gas guns, e.g. air guns; Steam guns
- F41B11/60—Compressed-gas guns, e.g. air guns; Steam guns characterised by the supply of compressed gas
- F41B11/62—Compressed-gas guns, e.g. air guns; Steam guns characterised by the supply of compressed gas with pressure supplied by a gas cartridge
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B10/00—Means for influencing, e.g. improving, the aerodynamic properties of projectiles or missiles; Arrangements on projectiles or missiles for stabilising, steering, range-reducing, range-increasing or fall-retarding
- F42B10/02—Stabilising arrangements
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B10/00—Means for influencing, e.g. improving, the aerodynamic properties of projectiles or missiles; Arrangements on projectiles or missiles for stabilising, steering, range-reducing, range-increasing or fall-retarding
- F42B10/32—Range-reducing or range-increasing arrangements; Fall-retarding means
- F42B10/34—Tubular projectiles
- F42B10/36—Ring-foil projectiles
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B12/00—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material
- F42B12/02—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect
- F42B12/36—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect for dispensing materials; for producing chemical or physical reaction; for signalling ; for transmitting information
- F42B12/40—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect for dispensing materials; for producing chemical or physical reaction; for signalling ; for transmitting information of target-marking, i.e. impact-indicating type
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B6/00—Projectiles or missiles specially adapted for projection without use of explosive or combustible propellant charge, e.g. for blow guns, bows or crossbows, hand-held spring or air guns
- F42B6/10—Air gun pellets ; Ammunition for air guns, e.g. propellant-gas containers
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a projectile for delivering a marking agent.
- paintball The sport of paintball has experienced tremendous growth. In this sport, targets (generally opposing players) are marked with paint delivered by a “paintball.”
- the present state of the art paintball is a three gram hollow spherical projectile, usually made of gelatin, and filled with a glycol based pigment. These paintballs are launched from compressed air or carbon dioxide powered devices at velocities not exceeding three hundred feet per second.
- the present invention is directed at overcoming two major limitations of present, state of the art paintballs: short range and poor accuracy. These factors have limited the distance at which a paintball can be effectively launched. Thus, one desiring to mark an object must close to within the projectiles relatively short range, which is sometimes not possible and is always inconvenient. In current game play where players attempt to mark their opponents before they are themselves marked, these limitations devolve the game into a close-range shootout. Thus, the emphasis of the sport has been upon high rate of fire launching devices.
- the short range is due in part to the limitation upon the maximum velocity of the paintball.
- the velocity can not exceed three hundred feet per second.
- Accuracy problems result from a number of factors. Paintballs may not be symmetrical and may not have a center of mass which coincides with the center of the ball. Both of these factors cause the paintball to spin, causing it to curve from a straight trajectory. This is especially the case at a higher velocities.
- the paintball is launcher at a lower velocity, then the paintball's range is further decreased.
- One embodiment of the invention comprises a ring airfoil style paintball.
- the ring airfoil style paintball comprises a ring airfoil carrying a marking agent.
- the ring airfoil comprises a generally annular body defining a central passage.
- the body has a nose or forward section and a tail or rear section.
- the cross-sectional shape of the body is wing-shaped.
- Marking agent is located in one more compartments of the body of the ring airfoil.
- marking agent is located in an annular ring in a nose section of the body.
- marking agent is located in a plurality of individual compartments in the nose section of the body.
- the individual compartments are preferably spherical in shape.
- the marking agent may be directed located in the compartments, or may be located in containers which are then located in the compartments.
- the ring airfoil style paintball is connected to a sabot for launching, the sabot protecting the ring airfoil style paintball during launching.
- Cartridges comprising a sabot containing the ring airfoil style paintball are launched from a launcher.
- the cartridges are launched with a compressed air charged.
- the launcher includes a trigger which releases a compressed air charged behind a loaded cartridge.
- the cartridge is then propelled through a barrel.
- a sabot stripper is located at the end of the barrel. The sabot stripper strips the sabot from the ring airfoil style paintball, allowing the ring airfoil style paintball to travel towards the intended target.
- the stripped sabot is ejected from the launcher, clearing the path for the next cartridge.
- the launcher accommodates a magazine for sequentially delivering cartridges for launch.
- the magazine is configured to contain a plurality of cartridges and is re-loadable.
- a barrel of the launcher is rifled for imparting a spin to the sabot.
- This spin is, in turn, imparted to the ring airfoil style paintball, giving it gyroscopic stability during flight.
- the ring airfoil style paintball is preferably configured to deliver the marking agent upon impacting a target.
- the body is thus constructed to fragment, such as from a frangible polystyrene material.
- the ring airfoil style paintball of the invention has numerous benefits and advantages. Among others, the ring airfoil style paintball has a true flight path and travels farther than standard spherical paintballs when the same launch energy is imparted. This allows the ring airfoil paintball to be used in long-distance targeting. In addition, the lower launch energy and larger impact surface area greatly reduces the probability of injury associated with impact of the paintball at the target.
- FIG. 1 is a front view of a ring airfoil style paintball in accordance with one embodiment of the invention
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the ring airfoil style paintball of FIG. 1 taken along line 2 - 2 therein;
- FIG. 3 is a front view of a ring airfoil style paintball in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the ring airfoil style paintball of FIG. 3 taken along line 4 - 4 therein;
- FIG. 5 is a side view of a sabot for use in launching a ring airfoil style paintball of the invention
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the sabot illustrated in FIG. 5 loaded with a ring airfoil style paintball of the invention
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of a ring airfoil style paintball launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a sabot stripper and ejector for a ring airfoil style paintball launched from a launcher
- FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment sabot stripper and ejector
- FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment sabot stripper and ejector
- FIG. 11 illustrates yet another embodiment sabot stripper and ejector.
- the invention is a ring airfoil style paintball and a launcher therefor.
- numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a ring airfoil style paintball 20 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
- the ring airfoil style paintball 20 has a ring airfoil shape.
- the paintball 20 has a body 22 which is generally annular, thus defining a central passage 24 leading from a nose 26 to a tail 28 .
- the nose 26 comprises a generally forward section of the body 22
- the tail 28 comprises a generally rear section of the body 22 , when considering the direction of flight of the ring airfoil style paintball 20 .
- the thickness of the body 24 decreases from the nose 26 to the tail 28 , contributing to a “wing” cross-sectional shape.
- the particular shape of the body 24 may depend upon a variety of factors, primarily associated with the desired aerodynamic characteristics of the airfoil.
- the body 20 of the paintball 20 may be of a variety of materials.
- the body 20 is preferably configured to release a payload, and is thus configured to break apart.
- the body 20 is a dense, frangible, molded polystyrene foam.
- the body 20 may be provided with stress risers to concentrate impact forces to cause the body 20 to break into pieces.
- the body 20 may have a plurality of designed areas of lower structural integrity and/or force concentrating areas which, when the body 20 impacts, cause the body 20 or at least a portion thereof, to break apart.
- the paintball 20 is preferably configured to deliver a payload.
- This payload preferably comprises marker or marking agent such as the glycol based pigment delivered by standard paintballs.
- the ring airfoil style paintball 20 preferably includes at least one compartment configured to contain marker or marking agent, or another container containing such agent.
- a compartment comprising an annular tube 30 is located in the body 20 of the paintball.
- the annular tube 30 is located at the nose 26 section of the body 20 .
- the tube 30 preferably comprises a hollow body which is or may be filled with marking agent.
- the tube 30 is pre-formed and is then embedded in the body 20 , such as during a molding process of the foam used to form the body.
- FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate another embodiment ring airfoil style paintball 20 a in accordance with the invention.
- an “a” designator has been added to the reference numerals, it being understood that like reference numerals refer to like parts to the ring airfoil style paintball 20 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- paintball 20 a is similar to the previous embodiment, the paintball 20 a comprising a body 22 a having nose 26 a and tail 28 a and defining a central passage 24 a .
- the paintball 20 a includes a plurality compartments 32 a.
- the compartments 32 a are small spheres.
- the compartments 32 a are preferably located in the nose 26 a of the body 22 a .
- the compartments 32 a are preferably symmetrically located or arranged in the body about a centerline passing through the passage 24 a through the body 22 a .
- the compartments 32 a may be filled with marking agent.
- marking agent is housing within a container, such as a gelatin sphere, and that container is then located in the compartments 32 a .
- the marking agent containers may be formed into the body during the manufacturing process, whereby the containers themselves essentially form the compartments in the body.
- the paintballs of the invention may be constructed in a variety of fashions.
- the body of the ring airfoil style paintball might be formed with compartments having a variety of other shapes, such as one which extend somewhat longitudinally from the nose towards the tail section.
- the ring airfoil style paintball is preferably configured (such as by considering the location of the marking agent) so that the center of gravity and center of pressure are substantially coincident. This contributes to neutral stability of the ring airfoil style paintball during flight and thus longer, more accurate flight.
- the ring airfoil style paintball has a diameter of about 0.5-0.75 inches and a total weight of about 6-8 grams.
- the ring airfoil style paintball of the invention has a number of advantages.
- Current spherical paintballs have a diameter of about 0.68 inches, a weight of about 3 grams and are fired at about 300 feet per second.
- the ring airfoil style paintball having the above-referenced weight and size when fired with the same energy as a standard spherical paintball, will have a velocity of only about 200 feet per second. At this velocity, the ring airfoil style paintball has a range in excess of 30 meters, easily outranging current spherical paintballs. Notably, this firing velocity is some 33% less than that for the standard spherical paintball, dramatically reducing the probability of injury resulting from impact of the projectile, even at very close ranges.
- the ring airfoil style paintball is launched with both a forward velocity, but a stabilizing spin.
- a launcher and a method of launching the ring airfoil style paintball in accordance with the invention is described in detail below.
- the ring airfoil style paintball is launched with a spin of about 4000 rpm, as such contributes to stabilization in flight.
- the ring airfoil style paintball has a both straight and level flight.
- the standard spherical projectile must be launched so that it travels along a parabolic path, substantially reducing the accuracy thereof.
- the ring airfoil style paintball travels flat and true due to its aerodynamic characteristics. This increases the probability of a target being hit from afar, as compared to standard spherical paintballs.
- the ring airfoil style paintball has a greater impact surface area than a standard spherical paintball, thus spreading impact energy over a wider area, reducing impact force at a particular area.
- the larger size and less concentrated impact force substantially lessens the risk of injury to the eye and other small and sensitive body areas.
- the ring airfoil style paintball of the invention may be launched in a variety of ways with a variety of mechanisms.
- One preferred launcher and method of launching will be described with reference to FIGS. 7-11 .
- the ring airfoil style paintball 20 is preferably launched using a sabot 100 .
- the sabot 100 essentially comprises a launch container or vehicle for the paintball 20 .
- the sabot 100 has a body 102 . As illustrated in FIG. 5 , the body 102 has a generally cylindrical outer shape for launching through the barrel of a launcher.
- the body 102 may be constructed of a variety of materials which are durable and strong, such as plastic.
- a chamber 108 is defined by the body 102 extending inwardly from a second end 106 thereof.
- Another chamber 110 is defined by the body 102 extending inwardly from a first end 104 thereof.
- the chamber 110 at the second end 106 preferably accepts a charge, such as a released compressed gas charged used to launch the sabot 100 from a launcher.
- the chamber 110 at the first end 104 is preferably shaped to accept the ring airfoil style paintball 20 therein. As illustrated, the chamber 100 is configured so that the nose of the paintball 20 is located at the first end 104 of the sabot 100 .
- the combination of the sabot 100 and ring airfoil style paintball 20 may be referred to as a “cartridge.”
- the sabot 100 containing the paintball 20 is launched from a launcher.
- the sabot 100 transfers energy, such as from a propellant gas, to the paintball 20 .
- the sabot 100 is separated from the ring airfoil style paintball.
- the sabot 100 is configured to protect the ring airfoil style paintball 20 during launch.
- a barrel of a launcher is preferably provided with rifling which causes the sabot to spin as a result of its traveling through the barrel during launch.
- the sabot 100 protects the ring airfoil style paintball 20 from damage resulting from release of the firing gas charge.
- the sabot 100 is preferably designed to have stiff sides and broad bearing surfaces at both the area of the chamber 108 at the second end 106 and as engaging the paintball 20 .
- the ring airfoil style paintball of the invention may be launched in a variety of manners.
- One embodiment of a launcher 200 will now be described with reference to FIG. 7 .
- the launcher 200 comprises a main body 202 defining a barrel 204 , a handle 206 and a pump slide 208 .
- the body 202 is configured to support and contain various elements of the launcher 200 .
- the handle 206 extends from the body 202 for gripping by a user.
- a trigger 210 is positioned near the handle 206 for operation by the user when gripping the handle.
- the barrel 204 comprises a portion of the body 202 which defines a passage through which projectiles are launched.
- the projectiles are cartridges comprising a ring airfoil style paintballs housed within a sabot, as described above.
- the pump slide 208 is, as described in more detail below, utilized to place the launcher in condition for activation.
- the trigger 210 can be moved between a first and second position. A illustrated, this movement is permitted through a standard pivot mounting of the trigger.
- the trigger 210 actuates a hammer 212 .
- a portion of the trigger 210 releases a pivoting hammer-sear 214 from a detent 216 in the pump slide 208 .
- a spring 218 or other mechanism moves the hammer 212 and connected hammer-sear 214 rearwardly.
- the hammer 212 moves rearwardly, it moves a valve body 220 .
- Maximum travel of the valve body 220 may be limited by an outwardly extending stop 222 which engages a wall 224 or other limiting member.
- valve body 220 moves rearwardly, it moves an associated valve head 226 .
- valve head 226 moves rearwardly, it opens a passage 228 leading from an intermediate chamber 230 within the body 202 leading to the barrel 204 .
- launching force is provided with compressed gas.
- This gas has a source, such as a from a replaceable container 232 containing compressed air.
- the container 232 has an associated regulator for releasing the compress gas.
- gas is released into the intermediate chamber 230 .
- Gas under pressure or an “air charge” is released from the intermediate chamber 230 to the barrel 204 when the valve head 226 is opened, in the manner just described. The launching process is further described below.
- the launcher 200 is configured for use in launching a plurality of projectiles.
- the launcher 200 can preferably be reset after launching a first projectile into a position for launching a subsequent projectile.
- the user After a first projectile is launched, the user resets the pump-slide 208 into engagement with the hammer-sear 214 by moving the pump-slide 208 rearwardly. This is accomplished by gripping an pulling rearwardly on the slide or an associated grip (not shown, but common the art of pump-action shotguns and the like, which grip generally extends from the underside of the body or barrel).
- the pump-slide 208 is then moved forward, pulling the hammer 212 forward with it, thereby compressing the spring 218 and readying the hammer 212 for release once again.
- a compressed air charge refills the intermediate chamber 230 from the bottle 232 or other source, preparing a charge for release once the valve head 226 is again reopened.
- the launcher 200 is preferable useful in launching one or more cartridges C comprising a sabot containing ring airfoil style paintball.
- a compressed air charge is directed through the passage 228 . This charged to directed to a point behind a loaded cartridge C.
- the compressed air forces the cartridge C forward through the barrel 204 and launches it from the launcher 200 .
- the sabot is preferably stripped from the ring airfoil style paintball.
- multiple cartridges C maybe associated with a magazine 240 for feeding to the launcher 200 in sequential fashion.
- the magazine 240 is preferably connectable to the launcher 200 .
- the magazine 240 comprises a body 242 defining a projectile containing area 242 .
- the projectile containing area 242 is generally cylindrical in shape.
- the cartridges C are located in front of a follower 244 .
- the follower 244 is biased forward from a rear end 246 thereof, such as with a helical spring 248 which extends between the rear end 246 of the magazine 240 and the follower 244 (the entire spring is not illustrated in FIG. 7 so as not to obscure other portions of the launcher).
- the launcher 200 includes an escapement 250 .
- the escapement 250 is preferably configured to control the loading of a cartridge C from the magazine 240 into the barrel 204 .
- the escapement 250 is pivotally mounted and configured to, in one position, engage the front of a cartridge C to limit its travel forward into the barrel 204 , and in another position, engage and separate the front-most loaded cartridge C from those located therebehind in the direction of the magazine 240 during the launch process.
- a forward portion 252 of the escapement 250 engages a cartridge C, limiting its forward movement into the barrel 204 .
- the front portion 252 of the escapement 250 is raised upwardly and a rear portion 254 is lowered, permitting the magazine spring 248 to move the cartridges C forward until they are stopped.
- This position of the escapement 250 is preferably associated with movement of the pump slide 208 rearwardly, which in turn effects movement of an associated arm 256 in a slot 258 .
- the position of the arm 256 changes as the pump slide 208 is moved rearwardly, in turn moving the escapement 250 into this position.
- the arm 256 When the pump slide 208 is moved forward, the arm 256 is moved, causing the escapement 250 to move to the position illustrated in FIG. 7 in which its rear portion 254 is located between the frontmost C 1 and next cartridge C 2 . In this position, forward motion of the cartridges C behind the front cartridge C 1 is limited or stopped. On the other hand, the frontmost cartridge C 1 may be launched through the barrel 204 (the front portion of the escapement not blocking or engaging the front of the frontmost cartridge C 1 ) as described above.
- the second cartridge C 2 serves the function of closing and obturating the rear of the barrel or breach during launch. As illustrated, this cartridge C 2 cooperates with a seal 260 , such as a flexible ring seal, which allows forward cartridge movement but which sufficiently grips the cartridge C 2 to prevent gas by-pass. Other means or mechanisms may satisfy this function other than by use of the cartridge and seal.
- a seal 260 such as a flexible ring seal
- the stack or line of cartridges including the second cartridge C 2 and those behind in the magazine 240 are supported against movement upon launch, including the pressurized gas and recoil force the gas presents.
- a ratchet is provided for this purpose.
- the magazine follower 244 is attached to a ratchet 262 .
- the ratchet 262 comprises a handle (not shown) which extends from the follower 244 , and a ratchet body 262 which is connected to the handle.
- the ratchet body 262 is an elongate element having a plurality of teeth 264 formed therein.
- the ratchet 262 is arranged so that the teeth 264 engage corresponding teeth 266 formed in the magazine 240 or an element connected thereto. These elements are positioned so that they do not interfere with the location of the cartridges C in the magazine 240 .
- the ratchet 262 is biased into a position in which its teeth 264 engage the teeth 266 associated with the magazine 240 .
- this is accomplished with the magazine spring 248 .
- the spring 248 has is fixedly mounted to the magazine 246 at one end and the follower 244 at the other.
- the spring 248 is wound or twisted so that it biases the follower 244 in the clockwise direction (when looking from the magazine towards the barrel) so that the ratchet 262 is pressed downwardly.
- the spring 248 biases the teeth 264 of the ratchet 262 into engagement with the teeth 266 of the magazine 240 .
- the inter-engaging teeth are oriented to prevent rearward relative movement (as illustrated, by the direction the teeth face), thus preventing rearward movement of the cartridges C in the magazine 240 upon launch.
- the teeth are configured to permit forward movement of the ratchet 262 and associated follower 244 , thus allowing the spring 248 to move the follower 244 , and thus the associated cartridges C, forward during the loading process described above.
- the handle extends outwardly of the magazine 240 and is useful in loading cartridges C into the magazine 240 .
- the operator may lift the handle upwardly to release the ratchet 262 .
- the operator may then pull the handle and connected follower 244 rearwardly.
- the ratchet 262 rotates back to a locked position.
- the operator may load cartridges C into the magazine 240 through a load opening 270 formed in the magazine 240 at its forward end.
- this action and opening 270 may be used by the operator to remove cartridges C from the magazine 240 , if necessary.
- launchers having other configurations than just described may be utilized to launch the ring airfoil style paintballs.
- the launcher could be a single shot variety in which the user must load each cartridge into the breach by hand.
- Other firing forces may be utilized than compressed gas from a container.
- the gas could be generated from a fired charge or be provided from a remote source.
- the launcher may also be designed so to eliminate the “pump action” resetting of the launcher.
- the launcher may be configured so that the hammer is reset automatically.
- the launcher may be constructed in a variety of manners, including from a variety of materials. Various of the components of the launcher may be formed separately and then be connected or assembled. Alternatively, the components described may actually be formed integrally.
- the ring airfoil style paintball of the invention is preferably launched using a sabot, preferably with a launcher such as that described above.
- a launcher such as that described above.
- the launcher when the launcher is used to launch the sabot containing ring airfoil style paintball, the ring airfoil style paintball must be separated from the sabot. Preferably, this occurs at the launcher.
- the sabot is preferably ejected from the launcher so that other ring airfoil paintballs may be launched using the launcher.
- the launcher of the invention has a number of advantages.
- the launcher is configured to launch ring airfoil projectiles
- the launcher may utilize the same compressed air cartridges as launchers for traditional spherical paintballs.
- the magazine configuration permits a plurality of cartridges to be launched in sequence.
- the magazine provides for linear, rather than lateral, loading movement, simplifying the magazine, cartridge movement and loading, and increasing reliability.
- FIGS. 8-11 illustrate various embodiments of sabot stripper and ejector mechanisms for use with the cartridge of the invention.
- Each of these figures illustrates a stripper and ejector mechanism for location at the distal end of a barrel B of a launcher.
- the barrel B may be, for example, the barrel 204 of the launcher 200 just described and illustrated in FIG. 7 .
- a body 300 is located at the end of the barrel B.
- the body 300 defines a passage aligned with the passage through the barrel B.
- the body 300 defines or holds a stop ring 302 .
- the stop ring 302 is configured to engage and stop a sabot of a cartridge, and yet defines a central passage through which a ring airfoil style paintball may pass.
- the stop ring 302 is permitted to travel linearly within the body 302 a short distance such as along a constrained track formed in the body, to engage an actuating member.
- the actuating member is a wave spring 304 .
- the wave spring 304 engages an ejector arm 306 .
- the wave spring 304 causes the ejector arm 306 to rotate about a pivot point 308 into the passage through the body 300 .
- a launched cartridge travels through the barrel B.
- the sabot Upon impacting the stop ring 302 , the sabot is stopped and the ring airfoil style paintball continues to travel forward through the body 300 , exiting the body towards the intended target.
- the impact of the sabot causes the stop ring 302 to travel forward and compress the wave spring 304 .
- This causes the ejector arm 306 to rotate to a position where it engages the sabot.
- the arm presses the sabot downwardly through an lower opening 310 formed in the body 300 .
- the sabot is pressed out of the body 300 , clearing the path for the next launched cartridge.
- one or more coil springs or other biasing elements may be used to maintain the stop ring 302 in a rearward position.
- the stop ring 302 may compress the one or more springs and directly engage a portion of the ejector arm 306 or another member which engages the arm, thereby effecting movement of the arm.
- a body 400 is again associated with the barrel B and defines a passage there through.
- a stop ring 402 is again mounted for movement relative to the body 400 .
- the stop ring 402 is mounted to a pivot pin 404 which engages a generally horizontal slot 406 in the stop ring 402 .
- the stop ring 402 is biased to a position in which the pivot pin 404 engages a front of the slot 406 . As illustrated, this is accomplished with a plunger 408 which presses the stop ring 402 in the direction of the barrel B under the force of a spring 410 .
- the sabot In operation, when the cartridge impacts the stop ring 402 , the sabot is stopped and the ring airfoil passes through the stop ring 402 and the remainder of the body 400 , where it exits the body.
- the impact of the sabot into the stop ring 402 first causes the stop ring 402 to move forward linearly (thus ensuring that the ring airfoil passes there through when the sabot is stripped away).
- the stop ring 402 begins to rotate upwardly, placing it into a canted position. This allows the sabot therebehind to fall through a lower opening 412 formed in the body 400 , clearing the path for the next launched cartridge.
- a body 500 is again associated with the barrel B and defines a passage.
- a stop ring 502 is again associated with the body 500 . As illustrated, the stop ring 502 is located distal to an ejector opening 504 in the body 500 and an associated gas accumulation chamber 506 defined by the body 500 .
- the sabot of a launched cartridge is stopped by the stop ring 502 .
- the associated ring airfoil style paintball is permitted to travel through the stop ring 502 and exit the body 500 .
- muzzle gas which was originally behind the sabot is permitted to flow into and accumulate in the accumulation chamber 506 above the sabot. The pressure of the accumulated gas forces the sabot downwardly through the opening 504 , clearing the path for the next launched cartridge.
- a body 600 is once again associated with the barrel B and defines a passage.
- a stop ring 602 is associated with the body 600 and is located distal of an ejector opening 604 in the body 600 .
- An ejector arm 606 is located in an accumulation chamber 608 formed above the opening 604 .
- the ejector arm 606 is pivotally or otherwise movably mounted, such as about a pin 610 , which a portion of the arm 606 having a greater surface area located in the chamber 606 .
- the arm 606 is biased into an upward position, as illustrated, such as with a spring 612 .
- the sabot of a launched cartridge is stopped by the stop ring 602 .
- the associated ring airfoil style paintball is permitted to travel through the stop ring 602 and exit the body 600 .
- muzzle gas which was originally behind the sabot is permitted to flow into and accumulate in the accumulation chamber 608 above the sabot.
- the pressure of the accumulated gas forces the ejector arm 606 to rotate downwardly towards the opening 604 (against the force of the spring 612 ).
- the arm 606 engages and ejects the sabot downwardly through the opening 604 , clearing the path for the next launched cartridge.
- the spring 612 Upon ejection and release of the gas pressure, the spring 612 returns the ejector arm 606 back to the position illustrated in which it does not extend into the passage through which the sabot and ring airfoil style paintball travel.
- FIGS. 8-11 illustrate variations in which the stripping and ejecting actions are accomplished automatically (i.e. without user intervention), such as by utilizing force imparted upon the sabot, gas charges or the like.
- other mechanisms may be provided, including those which require the user to eject the sabot. For example, once a sabot has been stripped with a stop ring, the user might actuate an ejector lever which engages the sabot and presses it from the launcher.
- stripper and ejector bodies as described above may be connected to or formed with the barrel of the launcher.
- the particular elements of the stripper and ejector mechanisms may vary.
- the stop ring has been described in one embodiment as generally annular, the stop ring need not be “ring” shaped.
- it may comprise one or more outwardly extending tabs, arcuate stop sections or the like.
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Abstract
A ring airfoil style paintball comprises a ring airfoil carrying a marking agent. The marking agent is located in one more compartments of a body of the ring airfoil. In one embodiment, marking agent is located in an annular ring in a nose section of the body, or in a plurality of spherical compartments in the nose section of the body. In one embodiment, the ring airfoil style paintball is connected to a sabot when launched. Cartridges comprising a sabot containing the ring airfoil style paintball are launched from a launcher. In one embodiment, the cartridges are launched with a compressed air charged. The launcher includes a magazine for sequentially delivering cartridges for launch. A stripper associated with the launcher strips the sabot from the ring airfoil paintball, and an ejector ejects the stripped sabot from the launcher.
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional patent application Ser. No. ______, filed Jan. 9, 2003.
- The present invention relates to a projectile for delivering a marking agent.
- The sport of paintball has experienced tremendous growth. In this sport, targets (generally opposing players) are marked with paint delivered by a “paintball.” The present state of the art paintball is a three gram hollow spherical projectile, usually made of gelatin, and filled with a glycol based pigment. These paintballs are launched from compressed air or carbon dioxide powered devices at velocities not exceeding three hundred feet per second.
- The present invention is directed at overcoming two major limitations of present, state of the art paintballs: short range and poor accuracy. These factors have limited the distance at which a paintball can be effectively launched. Thus, one desiring to mark an object must close to within the projectiles relatively short range, which is sometimes not possible and is always inconvenient. In current game play where players attempt to mark their opponents before they are themselves marked, these limitations devolve the game into a close-range shootout. Thus, the emphasis of the sport has been upon high rate of fire launching devices.
- Several problems contribute to the short range and poor accuracy of the paintball. First, the short range is due in part to the limitation upon the maximum velocity of the paintball. For safety considerations, in the sport of paintball, the velocity can not exceed three hundred feet per second. Accuracy problems result from a number of factors. Paintballs may not be symmetrical and may not have a center of mass which coincides with the center of the ball. Both of these factors cause the paintball to spin, causing it to curve from a straight trajectory. This is especially the case at a higher velocities. Of course, if the paintball is launcher at a lower velocity, then the paintball's range is further decreased.
- A solution to the above-stated problems is desired.
- One embodiment of the invention comprises a ring airfoil style paintball. The ring airfoil style paintball comprises a ring airfoil carrying a marking agent.
- The ring airfoil comprises a generally annular body defining a central passage. The body has a nose or forward section and a tail or rear section. The cross-sectional shape of the body is wing-shaped.
- Marking agent is located in one more compartments of the body of the ring airfoil. In one embodiment, marking agent is located in an annular ring in a nose section of the body. In another embodiment, marking agent is located in a plurality of individual compartments in the nose section of the body. The individual compartments are preferably spherical in shape. The marking agent may be directed located in the compartments, or may be located in containers which are then located in the compartments.
- In one embodiment, the ring airfoil style paintball is connected to a sabot for launching, the sabot protecting the ring airfoil style paintball during launching. Cartridges comprising a sabot containing the ring airfoil style paintball are launched from a launcher.
- In one embodiment, the cartridges are launched with a compressed air charged. The launcher includes a trigger which releases a compressed air charged behind a loaded cartridge. The cartridge is then propelled through a barrel. A sabot stripper is located at the end of the barrel. The sabot stripper strips the sabot from the ring airfoil style paintball, allowing the ring airfoil style paintball to travel towards the intended target. Preferably, the stripped sabot is ejected from the launcher, clearing the path for the next cartridge.
- In one embodiment, the launcher accommodates a magazine for sequentially delivering cartridges for launch. The magazine is configured to contain a plurality of cartridges and is re-loadable.
- Preferably, a barrel of the launcher is rifled for imparting a spin to the sabot. This spin is, in turn, imparted to the ring airfoil style paintball, giving it gyroscopic stability during flight.
- The ring airfoil style paintball is preferably configured to deliver the marking agent upon impacting a target. In one embodiment, the body is thus constructed to fragment, such as from a frangible polystyrene material.
- The ring airfoil style paintball of the invention has numerous benefits and advantages. Among others, the ring airfoil style paintball has a true flight path and travels farther than standard spherical paintballs when the same launch energy is imparted. This allows the ring airfoil paintball to be used in long-distance targeting. In addition, the lower launch energy and larger impact surface area greatly reduces the probability of injury associated with impact of the paintball at the target.
- Further objects, features, and advantages of the present invention over the prior art will become apparent from the detailed description of the drawings which follows, when considered with the attached figures.
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FIG. 1 is a front view of a ring airfoil style paintball in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the ring airfoil style paintball ofFIG. 1 taken along line 2-2 therein; -
FIG. 3 is a front view of a ring airfoil style paintball in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the ring airfoil style paintball ofFIG. 3 taken along line 4-4 therein; -
FIG. 5 is a side view of a sabot for use in launching a ring airfoil style paintball of the invention; -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the sabot illustrated inFIG. 5 loaded with a ring airfoil style paintball of the invention; -
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of a ring airfoil style paintball launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a sabot stripper and ejector for a ring airfoil style paintball launched from a launcher; -
FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment sabot stripper and ejector; -
FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment sabot stripper and ejector; and -
FIG. 11 illustrates yet another embodiment sabot stripper and ejector. - The invention is a ring airfoil style paintball and a launcher therefor. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.
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FIG. 1 illustrates a ringairfoil style paintball 20 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, the ringairfoil style paintball 20 has a ring airfoil shape. In particular, thepaintball 20 has abody 22 which is generally annular, thus defining acentral passage 24 leading from anose 26 to atail 28. As illustrated, thenose 26 comprises a generally forward section of thebody 22, while thetail 28 comprises a generally rear section of thebody 22, when considering the direction of flight of the ringairfoil style paintball 20. - Referring to
FIG. 2 , as illustrated, the thickness of thebody 24 decreases from thenose 26 to thetail 28, contributing to a “wing” cross-sectional shape. The particular shape of thebody 24 may depend upon a variety of factors, primarily associated with the desired aerodynamic characteristics of the airfoil. - The
body 20 of thepaintball 20 may be of a variety of materials. In one embodiment, thebody 20 is preferably configured to release a payload, and is thus configured to break apart. In a preferred embodiment, thebody 20 is a dense, frangible, molded polystyrene foam. Thebody 20 may be provided with stress risers to concentrate impact forces to cause thebody 20 to break into pieces. For example, thebody 20 may have a plurality of designed areas of lower structural integrity and/or force concentrating areas which, when thebody 20 impacts, cause thebody 20 or at least a portion thereof, to break apart. - As indicated, the
paintball 20 is preferably configured to deliver a payload. This payload preferably comprises marker or marking agent such as the glycol based pigment delivered by standard paintballs. Thus, the ringairfoil style paintball 20 preferably includes at least one compartment configured to contain marker or marking agent, or another container containing such agent. - Referring to
FIG. 2 , in one embodiment a compartment comprising anannular tube 30 is located in thebody 20 of the paintball. Preferably, theannular tube 30 is located at thenose 26 section of thebody 20. - The
tube 30 preferably comprises a hollow body which is or may be filled with marking agent. In one embodiment, thetube 30 is pre-formed and is then embedded in thebody 20, such as during a molding process of the foam used to form the body. -
FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate another embodiment ringairfoil style paintball 20 a in accordance with the invention. In the description referring to and figures illustrating this embodiment paintball, an “a” designator has been added to the reference numerals, it being understood that like reference numerals refer to like parts to the ringairfoil style paintball 20 described above and illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2 . - This
embodiment paintball 20 a is similar to the previous embodiment, thepaintball 20 a comprising abody 22 a havingnose 26 a andtail 28 a and defining acentral passage 24 a. In this embodiment, thepaintball 20 a includes a plurality compartments 32 a. - As illustrated, the
compartments 32 a are small spheres. Thecompartments 32 a are preferably located in thenose 26 a of thebody 22 a. In order to balance the ringairfoil style paintball 20 a, thecompartments 32 a are preferably symmetrically located or arranged in the body about a centerline passing through thepassage 24 a through thebody 22 a. In one embodiment, thecompartments 32 a may be filled with marking agent. - In another embodiment, marking agent is housing within a container, such as a gelatin sphere, and that container is then located in the
compartments 32 a. In this embodiment, the marking agent containers may be formed into the body during the manufacturing process, whereby the containers themselves essentially form the compartments in the body. - The paintballs of the invention may be constructed in a variety of fashions. For example, the body of the ring airfoil style paintball might be formed with compartments having a variety of other shapes, such as one which extend somewhat longitudinally from the nose towards the tail section.
- In one embodiment, the ring airfoil style paintball is preferably configured (such as by considering the location of the marking agent) so that the center of gravity and center of pressure are substantially coincident. This contributes to neutral stability of the ring airfoil style paintball during flight and thus longer, more accurate flight.
- In a preferred embodiment, the ring airfoil style paintball has a diameter of about 0.5-0.75 inches and a total weight of about 6-8 grams.
- The ring airfoil style paintball of the invention has a number of advantages. Current spherical paintballs have a diameter of about 0.68 inches, a weight of about 3 grams and are fired at about 300 feet per second. The ring airfoil style paintball having the above-referenced weight and size, when fired with the same energy as a standard spherical paintball, will have a velocity of only about 200 feet per second. At this velocity, the ring airfoil style paintball has a range in excess of 30 meters, easily outranging current spherical paintballs. Notably, this firing velocity is some 33% less than that for the standard spherical paintball, dramatically reducing the probability of injury resulting from impact of the projectile, even at very close ranges.
- Preferably, the ring airfoil style paintball is launched with both a forward velocity, but a stabilizing spin. A launcher and a method of launching the ring airfoil style paintball in accordance with the invention is described in detail below. Preferably, the ring airfoil style paintball is launched with a spin of about 4000 rpm, as such contributes to stabilization in flight.
- In accordance with the invention, the ring airfoil style paintball has a both straight and level flight. Notably, at maximum range, the standard spherical projectile must be launched so that it travels along a parabolic path, substantially reducing the accuracy thereof. On the other hand, at ranges far exceeding the spherical paintball, the ring airfoil style paintball travels flat and true due to its aerodynamic characteristics. This increases the probability of a target being hit from afar, as compared to standard spherical paintballs.
- Not only does the reduced velocity of the ring airfoil style paintball reduce the probability of injury, but so does its shape. As indicated, the ring airfoil style paintball has a greater impact surface area than a standard spherical paintball, thus spreading impact energy over a wider area, reducing impact force at a particular area. The larger size and less concentrated impact force substantially lessens the risk of injury to the eye and other small and sensitive body areas.
- The ring airfoil style paintball of the invention may be launched in a variety of ways with a variety of mechanisms. One preferred launcher and method of launching will be described with reference to
FIGS. 7-11 . - Referring to
FIGS. 5 and 6 , the ringairfoil style paintball 20 is preferably launched using asabot 100. Thesabot 100 essentially comprises a launch container or vehicle for thepaintball 20. - The
sabot 100 has abody 102. As illustrated inFIG. 5 , thebody 102 has a generally cylindrical outer shape for launching through the barrel of a launcher. Thebody 102 may be constructed of a variety of materials which are durable and strong, such as plastic. - Referring to
FIG. 6 , achamber 108 is defined by thebody 102 extending inwardly from asecond end 106 thereof. Anotherchamber 110 is defined by thebody 102 extending inwardly from afirst end 104 thereof. Thechamber 110 at thesecond end 106 preferably accepts a charge, such as a released compressed gas charged used to launch thesabot 100 from a launcher. - The
chamber 110 at thefirst end 104 is preferably shaped to accept the ringairfoil style paintball 20 therein. As illustrated, thechamber 100 is configured so that the nose of thepaintball 20 is located at thefirst end 104 of thesabot 100. The combination of thesabot 100 and ringairfoil style paintball 20 may be referred to as a “cartridge.” - As described in more detail below, the
sabot 100 containing thepaintball 20 is launched from a launcher. Thesabot 100 transfers energy, such as from a propellant gas, to thepaintball 20. After launching, thesabot 100 is separated from the ring airfoil style paintball. - The
sabot 100 is configured to protect the ringairfoil style paintball 20 during launch. Among other things, in one embodiment, a barrel of a launcher is preferably provided with rifling which causes the sabot to spin as a result of its traveling through the barrel during launch. In addition, thesabot 100 protects the ringairfoil style paintball 20 from damage resulting from release of the firing gas charge. - In order to satisfy its objectives, the
sabot 100 is preferably designed to have stiff sides and broad bearing surfaces at both the area of thechamber 108 at thesecond end 106 and as engaging thepaintball 20. - The ring airfoil style paintball of the invention may be launched in a variety of manners. One embodiment of a
launcher 200 will now be described with reference toFIG. 7 . - In accordance with this embodiment, the
launcher 200 comprises amain body 202 defining abarrel 204, ahandle 206 and apump slide 208. Thebody 202 is configured to support and contain various elements of thelauncher 200. Thehandle 206 extends from thebody 202 for gripping by a user. As illustrated, atrigger 210 is positioned near thehandle 206 for operation by the user when gripping the handle. - The
barrel 204 comprises a portion of thebody 202 which defines a passage through which projectiles are launched. Preferably, the projectiles are cartridges comprising a ring airfoil style paintballs housed within a sabot, as described above. Thepump slide 208 is, as described in more detail below, utilized to place the launcher in condition for activation. - The
trigger 210 can be moved between a first and second position. A illustrated, this movement is permitted through a standard pivot mounting of the trigger. When so moved, thetrigger 210 actuates ahammer 212. In particular, when so moved, a portion of thetrigger 210 releases a pivoting hammer-sear 214 from adetent 216 in thepump slide 208. Upon release, aspring 218 or other mechanism moves thehammer 212 and connected hammer-sear 214 rearwardly. As thehammer 212 moves rearwardly, it moves avalve body 220. Maximum travel of thevalve body 220 may be limited by an outwardly extendingstop 222 which engages awall 224 or other limiting member. - As the
valve body 220 moves rearwardly, it moves an associatedvalve head 226. When thevalve head 226 moves rearwardly, it opens apassage 228 leading from anintermediate chamber 230 within thebody 202 leading to thebarrel 204. - In a preferred embodiment, launching force is provided with compressed gas. This gas has a source, such as a from a
replaceable container 232 containing compressed air. In one embodiment, thecontainer 232 has an associated regulator for releasing the compress gas. When appropriately connected to thelauncher 200, gas is released into theintermediate chamber 230. Gas under pressure or an “air charge” is released from theintermediate chamber 230 to thebarrel 204 when thevalve head 226 is opened, in the manner just described. The launching process is further described below. - Preferably, the
launcher 200 is configured for use in launching a plurality of projectiles. As such, thelauncher 200 can preferably be reset after launching a first projectile into a position for launching a subsequent projectile. - After a first projectile is launched, the user resets the pump-
slide 208 into engagement with the hammer-sear 214 by moving the pump-slide 208 rearwardly. This is accomplished by gripping an pulling rearwardly on the slide or an associated grip (not shown, but common the art of pump-action shotguns and the like, which grip generally extends from the underside of the body or barrel). The pump-slide 208 is then moved forward, pulling thehammer 212 forward with it, thereby compressing thespring 218 and readying thehammer 212 for release once again. In addition, a compressed air charge refills theintermediate chamber 230 from thebottle 232 or other source, preparing a charge for release once thevalve head 226 is again reopened. - As described, the
launcher 200 is preferable useful in launching one or more cartridges C comprising a sabot containing ring airfoil style paintball. In use, as described above, a compressed air charge is directed through thepassage 228. This charged to directed to a point behind a loaded cartridge C. When this occurs, the compressed air forces the cartridge C forward through thebarrel 204 and launches it from thelauncher 200. As described below, in this process the sabot is preferably stripped from the ring airfoil style paintball. - In the preferred embodiment, multiple cartridges C maybe associated with a
magazine 240 for feeding to thelauncher 200 in sequential fashion. Themagazine 240 is preferably connectable to thelauncher 200. - As illustrated, the
magazine 240 comprises abody 242 defining aprojectile containing area 242. In one embodiment, theprojectile containing area 242 is generally cylindrical in shape. - Preferably, the cartridges C are located in front of a
follower 244. Thefollower 244 is biased forward from arear end 246 thereof, such as with ahelical spring 248 which extends between therear end 246 of themagazine 240 and the follower 244 (the entire spring is not illustrated inFIG. 7 so as not to obscure other portions of the launcher). - Preferably, means are provided for controlling the transport and delivery of cartridges C from the
magazine 240 to thebarrel 204. As illustrated, thelauncher 200 includes anescapement 250. Theescapement 250 is preferably configured to control the loading of a cartridge C from themagazine 240 into thebarrel 204. In one embodiment, theescapement 250 is pivotally mounted and configured to, in one position, engage the front of a cartridge C to limit its travel forward into thebarrel 204, and in another position, engage and separate the front-most loaded cartridge C from those located therebehind in the direction of themagazine 240 during the launch process. - In the first position, a
forward portion 252 of theescapement 250 engages a cartridge C, limiting its forward movement into thebarrel 204. In this position, thefront portion 252 of theescapement 250 is raised upwardly and arear portion 254 is lowered, permitting themagazine spring 248 to move the cartridges C forward until they are stopped. This position of theescapement 250 is preferably associated with movement of thepump slide 208 rearwardly, which in turn effects movement of an associatedarm 256 in aslot 258. The position of thearm 256 changes as thepump slide 208 is moved rearwardly, in turn moving theescapement 250 into this position. - When the
pump slide 208 is moved forward, thearm 256 is moved, causing theescapement 250 to move to the position illustrated inFIG. 7 in which itsrear portion 254 is located between the frontmost C1 and next cartridge C2. In this position, forward motion of the cartridges C behind the front cartridge C1 is limited or stopped. On the other hand, the frontmost cartridge C1 may be launched through the barrel 204 (the front portion of the escapement not blocking or engaging the front of the frontmost cartridge C1) as described above. - In the configuration illustrated, the second cartridge C2 serves the function of closing and obturating the rear of the barrel or breach during launch. As illustrated, this cartridge C2 cooperates with a
seal 260, such as a flexible ring seal, which allows forward cartridge movement but which sufficiently grips the cartridge C2 to prevent gas by-pass. Other means or mechanisms may satisfy this function other than by use of the cartridge and seal. - Preferably, the stack or line of cartridges including the second cartridge C2 and those behind in the
magazine 240 are supported against movement upon launch, including the pressurized gas and recoil force the gas presents. In one embodiment, a ratchet is provided for this purpose. As illustrated, themagazine follower 244 is attached to aratchet 262. - In one embodiment, the
ratchet 262 comprises a handle (not shown) which extends from thefollower 244, and aratchet body 262 which is connected to the handle. As illustrated, theratchet body 262 is an elongate element having a plurality ofteeth 264 formed therein. Theratchet 262 is arranged so that theteeth 264 engage correspondingteeth 266 formed in themagazine 240 or an element connected thereto. These elements are positioned so that they do not interfere with the location of the cartridges C in themagazine 240. - The
ratchet 262 is biased into a position in which itsteeth 264 engage theteeth 266 associated with themagazine 240. Preferably, this is accomplished with themagazine spring 248. In a preferred embodiment, thespring 248 has is fixedly mounted to themagazine 246 at one end and thefollower 244 at the other. Thespring 248 is wound or twisted so that it biases thefollower 244 in the clockwise direction (when looking from the magazine towards the barrel) so that theratchet 262 is pressed downwardly. - In operation, the
spring 248 biases theteeth 264 of theratchet 262 into engagement with theteeth 266 of themagazine 240. Preferably, the inter-engaging teeth are oriented to prevent rearward relative movement (as illustrated, by the direction the teeth face), thus preventing rearward movement of the cartridges C in themagazine 240 upon launch. However, the teeth are configured to permit forward movement of theratchet 262 and associatedfollower 244, thus allowing thespring 248 to move thefollower 244, and thus the associated cartridges C, forward during the loading process described above. - In a preferred embodiment, the handle extends outwardly of the
magazine 240 and is useful in loading cartridges C into themagazine 240. In particular, the operator may lift the handle upwardly to release theratchet 262. The operator may then pull the handle andconnected follower 244 rearwardly. When released, theratchet 262 rotates back to a locked position. With thefollower 244 retracted towards the rear 246 of themagazine 240, the operator may load cartridges C into themagazine 240 through aload opening 270 formed in themagazine 240 at its forward end. Similarly, this action andopening 270 may be used by the operator to remove cartridges C from themagazine 240, if necessary. - It will be appreciated that launchers having other configurations than just described may be utilized to launch the ring airfoil style paintballs. For example, though not as desirable, the launcher could be a single shot variety in which the user must load each cartridge into the breach by hand. Other firing forces may be utilized than compressed gas from a container. For example, the gas could be generated from a fired charge or be provided from a remote source. The launcher may also be designed so to eliminate the “pump action” resetting of the launcher. For example, the launcher may be configured so that the hammer is reset automatically.
- It will also be appreciated to one of ordinary skill in the art that the launcher may be constructed in a variety of manners, including from a variety of materials. Various of the components of the launcher may be formed separately and then be connected or assembled. Alternatively, the components described may actually be formed integrally.
- As described, the ring airfoil style paintball of the invention is preferably launched using a sabot, preferably with a launcher such as that described above. As described, when the launcher is used to launch the sabot containing ring airfoil style paintball, the ring airfoil style paintball must be separated from the sabot. Preferably, this occurs at the launcher. Once the sabot has been separated from the ring airfoil style paintball, the sabot is preferably ejected from the launcher so that other ring airfoil paintballs may be launched using the launcher.
- The launcher of the invention has a number of advantages. First, though the launcher is configured to launch ring airfoil projectiles, the launcher may utilize the same compressed air cartridges as launchers for traditional spherical paintballs. The magazine configuration permits a plurality of cartridges to be launched in sequence. The magazine provides for linear, rather than lateral, loading movement, simplifying the magazine, cartridge movement and loading, and increasing reliability.
-
FIGS. 8-11 illustrate various embodiments of sabot stripper and ejector mechanisms for use with the cartridge of the invention. Each of these figures illustrates a stripper and ejector mechanism for location at the distal end of a barrel B of a launcher. The barrel B may be, for example, thebarrel 204 of thelauncher 200 just described and illustrated inFIG. 7 . - Referring to
FIG. 8 , abody 300 is located at the end of the barrel B. Thebody 300 defines a passage aligned with the passage through the barrel B. Thebody 300 defines or holds astop ring 302. Thestop ring 302 is configured to engage and stop a sabot of a cartridge, and yet defines a central passage through which a ring airfoil style paintball may pass. - The
stop ring 302 is permitted to travel linearly within the body 302 a short distance such as along a constrained track formed in the body, to engage an actuating member. In one embodiment, the actuating member is awave spring 304. Thewave spring 304, in turn, engages anejector arm 306. When compressed, thewave spring 304 causes theejector arm 306 to rotate about apivot point 308 into the passage through thebody 300. - In operation, a launched cartridge travels through the barrel B. Upon impacting the
stop ring 302, the sabot is stopped and the ring airfoil style paintball continues to travel forward through thebody 300, exiting the body towards the intended target. The impact of the sabot causes thestop ring 302 to travel forward and compress thewave spring 304. This causes theejector arm 306 to rotate to a position where it engages the sabot. The arm presses the sabot downwardly through anlower opening 310 formed in thebody 300. The sabot is pressed out of thebody 300, clearing the path for the next launched cartridge. - It will be appreciated that other variations of this approach my be utilized. For example, one or more coil springs or other biasing elements may be used to maintain the
stop ring 302 in a rearward position. When thestop ring 302 moves forward, it may compress the one or more springs and directly engage a portion of theejector arm 306 or another member which engages the arm, thereby effecting movement of the arm. - In another embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 9 , abody 400 is again associated with the barrel B and defines a passage there through. Astop ring 402 is again mounted for movement relative to thebody 400. As illustrated, thestop ring 402 is mounted to apivot pin 404 which engages a generallyhorizontal slot 406 in thestop ring 402. Thestop ring 402 is biased to a position in which thepivot pin 404 engages a front of theslot 406. As illustrated, this is accomplished with aplunger 408 which presses thestop ring 402 in the direction of the barrel B under the force of aspring 410. - In operation, when the cartridge impacts the
stop ring 402, the sabot is stopped and the ring airfoil passes through thestop ring 402 and the remainder of thebody 400, where it exits the body. The impact of the sabot into thestop ring 402 first causes thestop ring 402 to move forward linearly (thus ensuring that the ring airfoil passes there through when the sabot is stripped away). When thepin 404 reaches the rear end of theslot 406, thestop ring 402 begins to rotate upwardly, placing it into a canted position. This allows the sabot therebehind to fall through alower opening 412 formed in thebody 400, clearing the path for the next launched cartridge. - In another embodiment in
FIG. 10 , abody 500 is again associated with the barrel B and defines a passage. Astop ring 502 is again associated with thebody 500. As illustrated, thestop ring 502 is located distal to anejector opening 504 in thebody 500 and an associatedgas accumulation chamber 506 defined by thebody 500. - In operation, the sabot of a launched cartridge is stopped by the
stop ring 502. The associated ring airfoil style paintball is permitted to travel through thestop ring 502 and exit thebody 500. Once the sabot has been stopped, muzzle gas which was originally behind the sabot is permitted to flow into and accumulate in theaccumulation chamber 506 above the sabot. The pressure of the accumulated gas forces the sabot downwardly through theopening 504, clearing the path for the next launched cartridge. - In yet another embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 11 , abody 600 is once again associated with the barrel B and defines a passage. Astop ring 602 is associated with thebody 600 and is located distal of anejector opening 604 in thebody 600. - An
ejector arm 606 is located in anaccumulation chamber 608 formed above theopening 604. Theejector arm 606 is pivotally or otherwise movably mounted, such as about apin 610, which a portion of thearm 606 having a greater surface area located in thechamber 606. Thearm 606 is biased into an upward position, as illustrated, such as with aspring 612. - In operation, the sabot of a launched cartridge is stopped by the
stop ring 602. The associated ring airfoil style paintball is permitted to travel through thestop ring 602 and exit thebody 600. Once the sabot has been stopped, muzzle gas which was originally behind the sabot is permitted to flow into and accumulate in theaccumulation chamber 608 above the sabot. The pressure of the accumulated gas forces theejector arm 606 to rotate downwardly towards the opening 604 (against the force of the spring 612). Thearm 606 engages and ejects the sabot downwardly through theopening 604, clearing the path for the next launched cartridge. Upon ejection and release of the gas pressure, thespring 612 returns theejector arm 606 back to the position illustrated in which it does not extend into the passage through which the sabot and ring airfoil style paintball travel. - As indicated above, a variety of other embodiments of sabot stripper and ejector mechanisms are desired.
FIGS. 8-11 illustrate variations in which the stripping and ejecting actions are accomplished automatically (i.e. without user intervention), such as by utilizing force imparted upon the sabot, gas charges or the like. Of course, other mechanisms may be provided, including those which require the user to eject the sabot. For example, once a sabot has been stripped with a stop ring, the user might actuate an ejector lever which engages the sabot and presses it from the launcher. - Of course, the stripper and ejector bodies as described above may be connected to or formed with the barrel of the launcher. The particular elements of the stripper and ejector mechanisms may vary. For example, while the stop ring has been described in one embodiment as generally annular, the stop ring need not be “ring” shaped. For example, it may comprise one or more outwardly extending tabs, arcuate stop sections or the like.
- It will be understood that the above described arrangements of apparatus and the method therefrom are merely illustrative of applications of the principles of this invention and many other embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
Claims (6)
1. A projectile for delivering a payload of marking agent comprising:
a ring airfoil comprising a generally annular ring airfoil body surrounding a central passage, said body having a nose and a tail generally opposite said nose, said body defining at least one cavity containing marking agent, said body configured to release said marking agent from said at least one cavity upon impacting a target.
2. The projectile in accordance with claim 1 wherein said body defines a plurality of cavities located in said nose.
3. The projectile in accordance with claim 1 wherein said marking agent is located in a container which is located in said at least one cavity.
4. The projectile in accordance with claim 2 wherein said cavities are generally spherical in shape.
5. The projectile in accordance with claim 1 wherein said ring airfoil is mounted in a sabot.
6. The projectile in accordance with claim 1 wherein said body is constructed of frangible, molded polystyrene.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/754,466 US20050066843A1 (en) | 2003-01-09 | 2004-01-09 | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
US11/271,052 US7500434B2 (en) | 2003-01-09 | 2005-11-09 | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US43887903P | 2003-01-09 | 2003-01-09 | |
US10/754,466 US20050066843A1 (en) | 2003-01-09 | 2004-01-09 | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/271,052 Continuation US7500434B2 (en) | 2003-01-09 | 2005-11-09 | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20050066843A1 true US20050066843A1 (en) | 2005-03-31 |
Family
ID=34380844
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/754,466 Abandoned US20050066843A1 (en) | 2003-01-09 | 2004-01-09 | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
US11/271,052 Expired - Fee Related US7500434B2 (en) | 2003-01-09 | 2005-11-09 | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/271,052 Expired - Fee Related US7500434B2 (en) | 2003-01-09 | 2005-11-09 | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
Country Status (1)
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US (2) | US20050066843A1 (en) |
Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050183615A1 (en) * | 2004-01-30 | 2005-08-25 | Abraham Flatau | Payload delivering ring airfoil projectile |
US20060096492A1 (en) * | 2003-01-09 | 2006-05-11 | Abraham Flatau | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
US20070151550A1 (en) * | 2005-12-31 | 2007-07-05 | Fitting Adam E | Paintball launching device |
ES2345862A1 (en) * | 2007-05-10 | 2010-10-04 | Miguel Angel Cuenca Barrena | System of shooting of water balloons through launching mortar. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
US20110162247A1 (en) * | 2009-12-22 | 2011-07-07 | Diehl Bgt Defence Gmbh & Co. Kg | Grenade and grenade launching apparatus |
US7987790B1 (en) * | 2003-03-18 | 2011-08-02 | Scarr Kimball R | Ring airfoil glider expendable cartridge and glider launching method |
US8065961B1 (en) | 2007-09-18 | 2011-11-29 | Kimball Rustin Scarr | Less lethal ammunition |
US8511232B2 (en) | 2010-06-10 | 2013-08-20 | Kimball Rustin Scarr | Multifire less lethal munitions |
US8661983B1 (en) | 2007-07-26 | 2014-03-04 | Kimball Rustin Scarr | Ring airfoil glider with augmented stability |
US20160010964A1 (en) * | 2014-01-02 | 2016-01-14 | Keith A. Langenbeck | Hollow Tube Projectiles and Launch Systems Thereof |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11428512B1 (en) * | 2017-10-02 | 2022-08-30 | A.N.S. Xtreme Performance, Inc. | Projectiles for a paintball marker and systems |
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US3877383A (en) * | 1971-01-06 | 1975-04-15 | Abraham Flatau | Munition |
US3898932A (en) * | 1972-11-29 | 1975-08-12 | Abraham Flatau | Non-hazardous ring airfoil projectile for delivery of non-lethal material |
US3951070A (en) * | 1972-11-29 | 1976-04-20 | Abraham Flatau | Non-hazardous ring airfoil projectile of non-lethal material |
US3982489A (en) * | 1972-11-29 | 1976-09-28 | Abraham Flatau | Kinetic energy ring projectile |
US4154012A (en) * | 1977-11-25 | 1979-05-15 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Army | Expendable launcher for non-lethal ring airfoil projectile |
US4190476A (en) * | 1972-11-29 | 1980-02-26 | Abraham Flatau | Process of forming a projectile by folding a resilient tubular member and filling same with payload |
US4212244A (en) * | 1977-12-09 | 1980-07-15 | Abraham Flatau | Small arms ammunition |
US4262597A (en) * | 1979-01-25 | 1981-04-21 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Army | Pre-wrapped two-piece ring airfoil projectile of non-hazardous material |
US4270293A (en) * | 1979-04-05 | 1981-06-02 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Army | Device for launching non-lethal ring airfoil projectiles |
US20010045173A1 (en) * | 1999-03-10 | 2001-11-29 | Gibson Gary E. | Aerodynamic projectiles and methods of making the same |
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US20030000122A1 (en) * | 2001-06-18 | 2003-01-02 | Chester Vanek | Multi-shot ring airfoil projectile launcher |
US20030051719A1 (en) * | 2001-08-29 | 2003-03-20 | Vanek Chester F. | Motorized multi-shot toy ring airfoil launcher |
US20030097952A1 (en) * | 2001-11-28 | 2003-05-29 | David Findlay | Self-contained round having ring airfoil projectile and launcher therefor |
US20030234013A1 (en) * | 2002-06-20 | 2003-12-25 | Hunter John W. | Ring airfoil launching system |
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US3980023A (en) * | 1974-09-11 | 1976-09-14 | Remington Arms Company, Inc. | Payload carrying tubular projectile |
US3888178A (en) * | 1974-10-30 | 1975-06-10 | Walter E Senoski | Model rocket-glider |
US6393992B1 (en) | 1996-11-18 | 2002-05-28 | Jaycor Tactical Systems, Inc. | Non-lethal projectile for delivering an inhibiting substance to a living target |
US20050066843A1 (en) * | 2003-01-09 | 2005-03-31 | Abraham Flatau | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
-
2004
- 2004-01-09 US US10/754,466 patent/US20050066843A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
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- 2005-11-09 US US11/271,052 patent/US7500434B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US3877383A (en) * | 1971-01-06 | 1975-04-15 | Abraham Flatau | Munition |
US3898932A (en) * | 1972-11-29 | 1975-08-12 | Abraham Flatau | Non-hazardous ring airfoil projectile for delivery of non-lethal material |
US3951070A (en) * | 1972-11-29 | 1976-04-20 | Abraham Flatau | Non-hazardous ring airfoil projectile of non-lethal material |
US3982489A (en) * | 1972-11-29 | 1976-09-28 | Abraham Flatau | Kinetic energy ring projectile |
US4190476A (en) * | 1972-11-29 | 1980-02-26 | Abraham Flatau | Process of forming a projectile by folding a resilient tubular member and filling same with payload |
US4154012A (en) * | 1977-11-25 | 1979-05-15 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Army | Expendable launcher for non-lethal ring airfoil projectile |
US4212244A (en) * | 1977-12-09 | 1980-07-15 | Abraham Flatau | Small arms ammunition |
US4262597A (en) * | 1979-01-25 | 1981-04-21 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Army | Pre-wrapped two-piece ring airfoil projectile of non-hazardous material |
US4270293A (en) * | 1979-04-05 | 1981-06-02 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Army | Device for launching non-lethal ring airfoil projectiles |
US6386113B1 (en) * | 1997-09-25 | 2002-05-14 | Ecological Technologies Corporation | Non-lethal weapon systems |
US20010045173A1 (en) * | 1999-03-10 | 2001-11-29 | Gibson Gary E. | Aerodynamic projectiles and methods of making the same |
US20030000122A1 (en) * | 2001-06-18 | 2003-01-02 | Chester Vanek | Multi-shot ring airfoil projectile launcher |
US20050016049A1 (en) * | 2001-06-18 | 2005-01-27 | Chester Vanek | Multi-shot ring airfoil projectile launcher |
US20030051719A1 (en) * | 2001-08-29 | 2003-03-20 | Vanek Chester F. | Motorized multi-shot toy ring airfoil launcher |
US20030097952A1 (en) * | 2001-11-28 | 2003-05-29 | David Findlay | Self-contained round having ring airfoil projectile and launcher therefor |
US20030234013A1 (en) * | 2002-06-20 | 2003-12-25 | Hunter John W. | Ring airfoil launching system |
Cited By (19)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060096492A1 (en) * | 2003-01-09 | 2006-05-11 | Abraham Flatau | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
US7500434B2 (en) * | 2003-01-09 | 2009-03-10 | Abraham Flatau | Ring airfoil style paintball and launcher |
US7987790B1 (en) * | 2003-03-18 | 2011-08-02 | Scarr Kimball R | Ring airfoil glider expendable cartridge and glider launching method |
US20120073465A1 (en) * | 2003-03-18 | 2012-03-29 | Scarr Kimball R | Ring airfoil glider expendable cartridge and glider launching method |
US8327768B2 (en) * | 2003-03-18 | 2012-12-11 | Kimball Rustin Scarr | Ring airfoil glider expendable cartridge and glider launching method |
US7581500B2 (en) * | 2004-01-30 | 2009-09-01 | Flatau & Vanek, Llc | Payload delivering ring airfoil projectile |
US20050183615A1 (en) * | 2004-01-30 | 2005-08-25 | Abraham Flatau | Payload delivering ring airfoil projectile |
US20070151550A1 (en) * | 2005-12-31 | 2007-07-05 | Fitting Adam E | Paintball launching device |
ES2345862A1 (en) * | 2007-05-10 | 2010-10-04 | Miguel Angel Cuenca Barrena | System of shooting of water balloons through launching mortar. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
US8661983B1 (en) | 2007-07-26 | 2014-03-04 | Kimball Rustin Scarr | Ring airfoil glider with augmented stability |
US10890422B2 (en) | 2007-07-26 | 2021-01-12 | Scarr Research and Development Co., LLC | Ring airfoil glider with augmented stability |
US9404721B2 (en) | 2007-07-26 | 2016-08-02 | Kimball Rustin Scarr | Ring airfoil glider with augmented stability |
US8065961B1 (en) | 2007-09-18 | 2011-11-29 | Kimball Rustin Scarr | Less lethal ammunition |
US8528481B2 (en) | 2007-09-18 | 2013-09-10 | Kimball Rustin Scarr | Less lethal ammunition |
US9488422B2 (en) * | 2009-12-22 | 2016-11-08 | Diehl Bgt Defence Gmbh & Co. Kg | Grenade and grenade launching apparatus |
US20110162247A1 (en) * | 2009-12-22 | 2011-07-07 | Diehl Bgt Defence Gmbh & Co. Kg | Grenade and grenade launching apparatus |
US8511232B2 (en) | 2010-06-10 | 2013-08-20 | Kimball Rustin Scarr | Multifire less lethal munitions |
US20160010964A1 (en) * | 2014-01-02 | 2016-01-14 | Keith A. Langenbeck | Hollow Tube Projectiles and Launch Systems Thereof |
US9389051B2 (en) * | 2014-01-02 | 2016-07-12 | Keith A. Langenbeck | Hollow tube projectiles and launch systems thereof |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US7500434B2 (en) | 2009-03-10 |
US20060096492A1 (en) | 2006-05-11 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: FLATAU & VANEK, LLC, MARYLAND Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FLATAU, ABRAHAM;VANEK, CHESTER;REEL/FRAME:018289/0932;SIGNING DATES FROM 20060813 TO 20060816 |