SPINNING PROJECTILE

Abstract

A projectile, includes a head having a forward tip and a rear end, a stem extending from the rear end of the head and formed integrally with the head, and a sleeve positioned adjacent to the head and being collinear with the head and coaxial with the stem. The sleeve is hollow and substantially cylindrical and has an inner diameter and an outer diameter. A base is formed integrally with the stem by pressing a rearward end of the stem and expanding a rear dimension of the stem to capture the sleeve between the base and the head. The head and the base are rotatably dependent upon each other by connection with the stem, and the head, stem, and base are rotationally independent of the sleeve.

Claims

1. A projectile, comprising: a head having a forward tip and a rear end; a stem extending from said rear end of said head and formed integrally with said head; a sleeve, said sleeve positioned adjacent to said head and being collinear with said head, said sleeve being coaxial with said stem; said sleeve being hollow and substantially cylindrical and having an inner diameter and an outer diameter; and a base formed integrally with said stem by pressing a rearward end of said stem and expanding a rear dimension of said stem to capture said sleeve between said base and said head; wherein the head and the base are rotatably dependent upon each other by connection with said stem, and wherein said head, said stem, and said base are rotationally independent of said sleeve.

2. The projectile of claim 1, wherein said base has an outer diameter that is larger than said inner diameter of said sleeve, such that said sleeve is configured to rotate upon discharge of said projectile.

3. The projectile of claim 1, wherein said sleeve rotates independently of said head and said base, and said sleeve rotation imparted by discharge of said projectile.

4. The projectile of claim 1, said stem being longer than said sleeve.

5. The projectile of claim 1, wherein said head and said stem are joined together during manufacture.

6. The projectile of claim 1, wherein said base expands by application of force on an end of said base to retain said sleeve on said stem.

7. The projectile of claim 1, said base being defined by a flare of an end of said stem.

8. The projectile of claim 1, said head having a one or more separations which allow for expansion upon impact.

9. The projectile of claim 1, wherein said sleeve includes at least one engagement feature on an exterior surface of said sleeve, said at least one engagement feature being configured to interact with rifling of a weapon.

10. The projectile of claim 1, wherein said sleeve is formed of a sleeve material and said stem is formed of a stem material, said sleeve material having a lower coefficient of friction than said stem material to facilitate independent rotation of said sleeve.

11. The projectile of claim 1, wherein said base is configured to expand radially outward upon application of an axial force to capture said stem between said base and said head.

12. The projectile of claim 1, wherein said stem and said base each include an alignment mechanism for aligning said stem and said base.

13. The projectile of claim 1, wherein said forward tip of said head is a hollow tip and is formed of at least one of copper or brass.

14. The projectile of claim 1, wherein said forward tip of said head is a monolithic one-piece structure.

15. A projectile, comprising: a base; a stem passing through a hollow interior of said base, said base formed integrally with a head; said head at an end of said stem opposite from said base; and a sleeve disposed over said stem and captured between said base and said head, said sleeve capable of rotation relative to said head, said stem, and said base; said head disposed at one axial end of said sleeve, and said base disposed at an opposite axial end of said sleeve; said base formed by a flared end of said stem; said sleeve having a larger diameter than said head and said base such that said sleeve is configured to rotate due to engagement of rifling of a weapon upon discharge of said weapon; wherein said sleeve rotates independently of said head and said base.

16. The projectile of claim 15, said stem being longer than said sleeve.

17. The projectile of claim 15, wherein said head and said stem are joined together during manufacture.

18. The projectile of claim 15, wherein said base expands by application of force to retain said sleeve on said stem.

19. The projectile of claim 15, said head having a one or more separations which allow for expansion upon impact.

20. A process for producing a two piece spinning projectile, comprising the steps of: providing a bullet having a head and an integral stem extending from a rear surface of said head; providing a sleeve that is substantially cylindrical and hollow; positioning said sleeve over said integral stem; flaring a rear end of said integral stem to form a base; and capturing said sleeve on said integral stem by forming said base, such that said sleeve is rotatable relative to said integral stem.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, where like structure is indicated with like reference numerals and in which:

[0052] FIG. 1 is a drawing of the head component of the present invention, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0053] FIG. 2 is a drawing of the sleeve component of the present invention, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0054] FIG. 3 is a drawing of the base component of the present invention, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0055] FIG. 4 is a drawing of the assembled projectile of the present invention; according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0056] FIG. 5A is an exploded view of another embodiment of a projectile, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0057] FIG. 5B is an assembled view of the projectile of FIG. 5A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0058] FIG. 6A is an assembled view of the projectile of FIGS. 5A and 5B with an unexpanded base, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0059] FIG. 6B is an assembled view of the projectile of FIG. 6A with an expanded base, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0060] FIG. 6C is a side-view of the projectile of FIG. 6A with an unexpanded base, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0061] FIG. 6D is a side-view of the projectile of FIG. 6B with an expanded base, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0062] FIG. 7 is an illustrative flow diagram of a method for producing a two piece spinning projectile, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein.

REFERENCE NUMERALS IN THE DRAWINGS

[0063] 1. Head [0064] 2. Sleeve component [0065] 3. Base component [0066] 4. External Threads [0067] 5. Internal Threads [0068] 6. Point [0069] 7. Stem component [0070] 9. Separations [0071] 10. Alignment mechanism [0072] 12. Sleeve component outer diameter [0073] 14. Sleeve component inner diameter [0074] 16. Stem component outer diameter [0075] 18. Base component outer diameter

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] Various embodiments of the invention are described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. Some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown in the figures. Indeed, the disclosed invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples, and so that this disclosure will satisfy legal requirements.

[0077] FIGS. 1-3 show the parts and assembly for an example of a 9 mm projectile. It is understood that the same principles can be applied to substantially any size projectile fired by a gun or similar device.

[0078] FIG. 1 shows the head 1 of the spinning projectile of the present invention.

[0079] FIG. 2 shows the sleeve component 2 of the present invention.

[0080] FIG. 3 shows the base component 3 of the present invention.

[0081] FIG. 4 shows a drawing of the prototype spin projectile design. The diameter of the Head 1 and the Base 3 are slightly smaller than the Sleeve 2 diameter such that the bore rifling is only in contact with the Sleeve diameter.

[0082] With the present innovative improvement, the spinning projectile should provide the following benefits as compared to a solid projectile in which the entire projectile is subject to spinning: [0083] (1) Flatter trajectory, increased accuracy [0084] (2) Reduced bore friction [0085] (3) Higher sustained rate of fire [0086] (4) Reduced powder charge [0087] (5) Quieter firing for silencers [0088] (6) Extended range of projectile [0089] (7) Increased standoff distance [0090] (8) Scalable design

[0091] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the projectile head 1 and the base 3 are machined to a slightly smaller diameter than the sleeve 2. The sleeve 2 is the only portion of the projectile that engages the bore's inner rifling. The projectile head 1 and base 3 do not engage the rifling and therefore do not spin with the sleeve. As a non-limiting example, powdered graphite or other lubricants may assist with reducing friction within the assembly. The disclosed spin relationship may increase velocity, reduce internal bore friction, or may flatten the projectile ballistic curve.

[0092] In a further preferred embodiment, the head 1 of the spinning projectile of the present invention is manufactured with a substantially pointed portion 6 and a stem 7. In a further preferred embodiment, the stem can comprise external threads 4. The sleeve component 2 is sized to have a diameter slightly larger than the head 1, and the sleeve is placed over the stem of the head 1 to form the projectile of the present invention. The base component 3 comprises internal threads 5 which engage the external threads of the stem of the head portion of the present invention to form the projectile of the present invention. The Head 1 and the Base 3 are slightly smaller than the Sleeve 2 diameter such that the bore rifling is only in contact with the Sleeve diameter.

[0093] The projectile design is scalable from a 5.56 caliber, 9 mm bullet, to multi-centimeter diameter projectiles that are bore delivered, such as naval guns, tank rounds, and artillery.

[0094] Referring now to FIGS. 5A and 5B, another embodiment of a projectile is depicted. As with the previous embodiments, the projectile may include a head component 1, a sleeve component 2, a base component 3, and a stem component 7. The head 1 of the projectile is shaped to provide aerodynamic properties suitable for flight. In these embodiments, the head 1 may further include a forward tip designed to minimize air resistance, and a rear end from which the stem component 7 extends. As has been described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-4, the head 1 may be optionally constructed with one or more separations 9 that allow for controlled expansion upon impact, enhancing the projectile's stopping power. In these embodiments, separations 9 may be defined as designed weak points in the head 1 that allow for controlled expansion upon impact. This expansion increases the diameter of the projectile as it enters a target, creating a larger wound channel and transferring more energy to the target, which may be advantageous in hunting or defensive scenarios.

[0095] Referring still to FIGS. 5A and 5B, extending rearward from the head 1 is the stem component 7, which may be formed integrally with the head 1. In these embodiments, the stem component 7 serves as a structural backbone for the projectile, and allows for the sleeve component 2 to be positioned and secured. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that the stem component 7 may have a rigidity capable of maintaining the structural integrity of the projectile during flight and upon impact. Furthermore, as depicted most clearly in FIG. 5B, the stem component 7 may be of a length that surpasses that of the sleeve component 2, ensuring proper engagement and rotational functionality. In other embodiments, it may be that the stem component 7 is formed separately and connected to the head 1, for example by thread, fastening, weld, or other connection methods and/or structure.

[0096] In the embodiments described herein, the sleeve component 2 may be a hollow, substantially cylindrical component that is coaxially aligned with the head 1 and stem component 7 of the projectile. The sleeve component 2 may be placed over the stem component 7 and is held in place between the head 1 and the base component 3, as will be described in additional detail herein with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B. Upon discharge from a weapon, the rifling of the firearm barrel imparts rotation to the sleeve component 2, which is designed to rotate independently of the head 1 and the base component 3, thereby stabilizing the projectile's flight.

[0097] It should be further appreciated that, in some embodiments, the sleeve component 2 may be sized such that a tolerance exists between the sleeve component 2 and a main projectile section of the rifling of a weapon to allow for minor slippage between the projectile and the rifling. In these embodiments, the term slippage may refer to the movement (e.g., slip) of the projectile within the main projectile section of the weapon before the sleeve component 2 fully engages the rifling grooves. For example, as the projectile travels down the main projectile section, the sleeve component 2 may begin to rotate before fully engaging the rifling, which may allow for slight rotation of the sleeve component 2. In these embodiments, the slippage of the projectile may allow the projectile to gradually build up to its full rotational speed as the projectile traverses the main projectile section of the weapon. It should be appreciated that this gradual build up may aid in ensuring the projectile maintains a consistent spin rate during discharge. Furthermore, the consistent spin rate afforded by the slippage of the projectile may also improve the accuracy and stability of the projectile while reducing wear and tear on the weapon caused by discharge.

[0098] Referring still to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the sleeve component 2 may include an outer diameter that is the same or larger than an outer diameter of the head 1 and/or stem component 7. Accordingly, when the projectile is loaded in a weapon, an exterior surface of the sleeve component 2 may contact rifling of the weapon, while the head 1 and the base component 3 of the projectile do not contact the rifling. In these embodiments, the exterior surface of the sleeve component 2 include at least one engagement feature that may be configured to engage the rifling of the weapon, which may aid in the rotation of the sleeve component 2 during firing.

[0099] It should be further appreciated that, in some embodiments, the sleeve component 2 may, according to some embodiments, comprise a tapered section 8, which may abut the head 1 of the projectile when the sleeve component 2 is coupled to the head 1. For example, as depicted in FIG. 5B, the outer diameter of the sleeve component 2 may be larger than the outer diameter of the head 1. To improve aerodynamics between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1, the tapered section 8 of the sleeve component 2 may be tapered such that the portion of the tapered section 8 that contacts the head 1 has an outer diameter that is generally equal to the outer diameter of the head 1.

[0100] To further aid in rotation of the sleeve component 2, the sleeve component 2 may be formed of a sleeve material and the stem component 7 may be formed of a stem material that is different from the sleeve material. In these embodiments, the sleeve material may have a lower coefficient of friction than the stem material to facilitate independent rotation of the sleeve component 2 relative the stem component 7, the head 1, and the base component 3. Although the sleeve component 2 and the stem component 7 are described as being made of different materials, in other embodiments, it should be appreciated that each of the stem material and the sleeve material may be the same material without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0101] Referring still to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the base component 3 of the projectile is formed integrally with the stem component 7 by pressing and expanding the rearward end of the stem component 7. The expansion of the stem 7 creates a flared section that captures the sleeve component 2 between the base and the head 1. Once flared, the outer diameter of the base component 3 may be larger than the inner diameter of the sleeve component 2, allowing the sleeve component 2 to rotate freely. In these embodiments, the base component 3 may further act to provide a counterbalance to the head 1, and may serve as the contact point connecting with a cartridge. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the sleeve component 2 may also define the contact point with the cartridge.

[0102] Turning now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the expansion of the stem component 7 to form the base component 3 will be described in additional detail. For example, FIG. 6A depicts the rearward end of the stem component 7 in an unexpanded state. By utilizing an expansion process, such as flaring or belling, the stem component 7 may be expanded to form the base component 3, as illustrated in FIG. 6B. In these embodiments, it should be appreciated that the flaring process may increase the outer diameter of the end portion of the stem component 7 such that the base component 3 has an outer diameter than is larger than an inner diameter of the sleeve component 2, such that the sleeve component 2 is captured on the stem component 7 between the base component 3 and the head 1.

[0103] In these embodiments, the stem component 7 may initially be a continuation of the head 1 of the projectile (e.g., formed integrally with the head 1) and may be formed from a ductile material that can be shaped under force without breaking. The sleeve component 2 may be placed over the stem component 7 in the correct position, typically after the head 1 and stem component 7 have been formed but before the base component 3 is flared. In these embodiments the sleeve component 2 and/or the stem component 7 may be further formed with an alignment mechanism 10 (e.g., alignment markings, grooves, notches, etc.) that may aid in aligning the sleeve component 2 and the stem component 7 before the base component 3 is formed.

[0104] Referring still to FIGS. 6A and 6B, once the sleeve component 2 is positioned on the stem component 7, an expansion mechanism, such as a flaring tool, may apply a force F to the rear end of the stem component 7. As the force F is applied (e.g., in an axial direction as depicted in FIG. 6B), the rear end of the stem component 7 may deform outward and expands. This expansion is controlled by the design of the expansion mechanism and the amount of force F applied to the stem component 7. In these embodiments, it may be desirable to expand the rear end of the stem component 7 just enough to create a flared base that is wider than the stem component 7 and the inner diameter of the sleeve component 2.

[0105] Referring still to FIGS. 6A and 6B, as the stem component 7 expands, the stem component 7 may capture the sleeve component 2 between the newly formed base component 3 and the head 1. Accordingly, the base component 3 may act as a mechanical lock that secures the sleeve component in place. Any additional shaping or finishing required for the base component 3 may then be completed, such as creating a smooth transition from the flared base component 3 to the stem component 7 or ensuring the base component 3 is flat and perpendicular to the stem component 7 for proper seating in a cartridge.

[0106] Turning now to FIGS. 6C and 6D, the expansion of the stem component 7 is described in additional detail with reference to the diameters of the stem component 7, the sleeve component 2, and the base component 3. For example, in the unexpanded position, as depicted in FIG. 6C, the sleeve component 2 includes an outer diameter 12 and an inner diameter 14, with the inner diameter 14 of the sleeve component 2 being larger than an outer diameter 16 of the stem component 7, such that the sleeve component 2 may be positioned about the stem component 7, as has been described in detail herein.

[0107] With the sleeve component 2 positioned about the stem component 7, a force F (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 6B) may be applied to the stem component 7 to form the base component 3, as shown in FIG. 6D. In these embodiments, the force applied to the stem component 7 may cause the stem component 7 to expand radially outward, such that the outer diameter 16 of the stem component 7 increases. The force F may be continually applied to the stem component 7 until the base component 3 having an outer diameter 18 which is larger than an inner diameter 14 of the sleeve component 2 is formed at the end of the stem component 7. By forming the base component 3 with an outer diameter 18 that is larger than the inner diameter 14 of the sleeve component 2, the sleeve component 2 may be captured between the base component 3 and the head 1 of the projectile while still being capable of rotating independently relative the base component 3 and the head 1.

[0108] It should be noted that, in the embodiments described herein, additional machinery and/or equipment may be utilized to ensure that the integrity of the head 1 of the projectile is not compromised during the flaring process. For example, in some embodiments, the projectile may be placed in a mold and/or clamp made of rubber, plastic, or any other non-marring material to secure the head 1 of the projectile prior to applying the force F to the stem component 7. In these embodiments, the mold and/or clamp may further include a cavity shaped to fit the head 1 of the projectile without applying stress to the head 1 of the projectile during flaring. Accordingly, during the flaring process, the force F is only applied to the stem component 7, while the head 1 of the projectile remains cradled within the mold and/or clamp.

[0109] Furthermore, in other embodiments still, alternative solutions may be utilized to protect the head 1 of the projectile during the flaring process. For example, the base component 3 may be formed via automated precision flaring, during which a robotic flaring tool may apply a precision force to the stem component 7. In these embodiments, the robotic flaring tool may be programmed to ensure that the force F applied to the stem component is localized to the stem component 7 and does not impact the head 1. In other embodiments, vibrational damping materials may be utilized to support the head 1 during the flaring process. For example, in these embodiments, the vibration damping material may absorb energy generated during the flaring process, thereby preventing the force F from being transferred from the stem component 7 to the head 1. Similarly, advanced flaring processes may be utilized which minimize the mechanical stress exerted on the head 1 during flaring. For example, selective laser flaring and/or chemical flaring, which may utilize lasers or chemical processes to expand the stem component 7, respectively, may be capable of forming the flared base component 3 without affecting the head 1.

[0110] In the embodiments described herein, it should be appreciated that the expansion of the base 3 needs to be done with precision, as an inadequate flare may not secure the sleeve component 2 effectively, and an excessive flare could damage the sleeve component 2 or affect the bullet's aerodynamics. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the process of flaring the stem component 7 may also include steps of annealing (heat-treating) the stem component 7 to ensure the flared base component 3 has desirable properties for flaring without cracking or splitting.

[0111] Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the projectile including a flared base component 3 and method of forming a projectile described herein may be suitable for use in any caliber of projectile without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the projectile described herein may be a small caliber projectile (e.g., 0.22 long rifle, 0.25 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP), 0.32 ACP, 0.380 ACP, etc.), a medium caliber projectile (e.g., 9 mm Luger, 0.38 Special, 0.40 Smith & Wesson, 0.45 ACP, etc.) a large caliber projectile (e.g., 0.44 Magnum, 0.50 Action Express, etc.), a rifle round (e.g., 0.223 Remington, .308 Winchester, 0.30-06 Springfield, 0.7 mm Remington Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, etc.) a Rimfire round (0.17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire, 0.22 Magnum, etc.), a shotgun round (e.g., 12 gauge, 20 gauge, 0.410 gauge), a Magnum Rifle round (e.g., .338 Lapua Magnum, 0.416 Barrett, 0.50 Browning Machine Gun (BMG), etc.), a specialty and/or historical caliber (e.g., 45-70 Government, 8 mm Mauser, .3030 British, etc.), a precision shooting and/or long range projectile (e.g., 6.5 Creedmoor, 0.224 Valkyrie), a subsonic and/or suppressor optimized round (e.g., 0.300 Blackout, 9?39 mm, etc.), a military grade ammunition (e.g., .50 BMG, 20?102 mm), or any other similar projectile. As noted herein, it should be appreciated that the projectiles discussed herein are for illustrative purposes only, and the projectile may be any projectile for civilian and/or military use. In these embodiments, the design considerations of the projectile (e.g., the size of the stem component, the force required to form the flared base component, protective measures to maintain the head during flaring, etc.) may be determined based on the particular caliber of projectile utilized.

[0112] Referring now to FIGS. 6A-6D collectively, it should be appreciated that the flaring process may further impact how tightly the sleeve component 2 is pressed against the head 1 of the projectile once the base component 3 is formed. For example, a larger flare on the base component 3 may result in a tighter fit of the sleeve component 2 against the head 1. In these embodiments, the tight fit between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1 may ensure that the sleeve component 2 is held in place and is less likely to move independently from the head 1 and the stem component 7 during flight.

[0113] In contrast, a relatively smaller flare may result in a looser fit between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1. In these embodiments, the expansion of the rear of the stem component 7 is less pronounced, thereby allowing for a greater degree of movement of the sleeve component 2 relative the head 1 and the stem component 7.

[0114] Referring still to FIGS. 6A-6D, it should be appreciated that the size of the flare of the base component 3, and in turn, the fit between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1, may further impact the spin of the projectile. For example, in embodiments in which the sleeve component 2 is tightly fitted against the head 1, the sleeve component 2 may become more rigidly attached to the rest of the projectile (e.g., the head 1 and the base component 3). As a result, when the projectile is fired and the rifling of the weapon imparts spin to the sleeve component 2, the entire projectile (e.g., the head 1, sleeve component 2, and base component 3) is more likely to spin as a single unit. Accordingly, the projectile may have a higher spin stability, which may be beneficial in maintaining a straight trajectory and improving accuracy of the projectile. Although it is noted herein that the entire projectile may spin as a single unit during discharge from the weapon, it should be appreciated that the tight fit between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1 may still allow for the sleeve component 2 to rotate independently of the head 1 and the base component 3 when the projectile is not engaged with the weapon (e.g., such as when the projectile is being grasped by a user). However, the more rigid attachment between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1 may cause the sleeve component 2 to have more difficulty spinning independently, which may in turn increase a likelihood that the projectile spins as a single unit when discharged from the weapon.

[0115] In contrast, a relative looser fit between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1 may allow the sleeve component 2 to more easily rotate independently of the head 1 and the base component 3. In these embodiments, when the rifling of the weapon engages the sleeve component 2, the head 1 and the base component 3 may not spin, or may spin at different (e.g., lower) rates than the sleeve component 2. Accordingly, the differential spin between the sleeve component 2 and the rest of the projectile may create a gyroscopic effect, where the head 1 of the projectile maintains a desired orientation (e.g., trajectory) more consistently.

[0116] It should be further understood that the fit between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1 may have additional ballistic implications for the projectile. For example, a tighter fit (e.g., larger flare) may be more useful in conventional projectile where high degrees of trajectory and accuracy are desired. In contrast, specialized applications (e.g., projectiles configured for high degree of penetration) may benefit from a projectile in which a looser fit is maintained between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1. It should be appreciated that, in these embodiments, the fit between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1 may be determined based on the intended use of the projectile and its desired ballistic properties, and the fit between the sleeve component 2 and the head 1 may be adjusted by altering the size of the flare of the base component 3 (e.g., by adjusting the force applied to the stem component 7).

[0117] Turning now to FIG. 7, another embodiment of a projectile is depicted. In these embodiments, the head 1 may be a hollow structure including a head base 20 that may be threadably coupled to a threaded portion 22 of a head cap 24. As depicted in FIG. 7, the stem component 7 may extend from the head base 20, which may be form the primary structural component of the head 1 of the projectile and may be formed of a durable material capable of withstanding forces associated with discharging the projectile from a weapon. It should be appreciated that, in these embodiments, the head 1 may be formed of copper, brass, or any other similar material.

[0118] Referring still to FIG. 7, the head cap 24 may be a hollow section that may be configured to contain explosives, technological components, or other specialized materials. For example, in military and/or tactical applications, the head cap 24 may be filled with a volume of explosive material. Upon impact of the head cap 24 with a target, the explosive charge may discharge and cause additional damage beyond the kinetic impact of the head cap 24. In other embodiments, the head cap 24 may include a tracking device, a sensor, a camera, or any other similar device that may be used for reconnaissance, data collection, and/or precision targeting.

[0119] In the embodiments described herein, the head cap 24 may be filled with any of the components described herein (e.g., explosives, technological components, etc.) Once the head cap 24 is filled, the threaded portion 22 of the head cap may engage the head base 20 to couple the head cap 24 to the head base 20 and secure the explosive and/or technological materials within the head cap 24. In these embodiments, the head cap 24 may be secured to the stem component 7 either before or after the sleeve component 2 is secured to the stem component 7 and the base component 3 is formed. However, it should be appreciated that in certain applications (e.g., when explosive materials are housed within the head cap 24), it may be desirable to form the flared base component 3 and secure the sleeve component 2 to the stem component 7 prior to securing the head cap 24 to the head base 20 in order to minimize risks associated with unintentional detonation.

[0120] Referring still to FIG. 7, once the head cap 24 is filled with a desired material and secured to the head base 20, the projectile may behave like any of the projectiles described herein during flight. That is, the head cap 24 remains securely attached to the head base 20 due to the connection of the threaded portion 22 of the head cap 24 with the head base 20. Upon impact of the head cap 24 with a target, the design of the head cap 24 may dictate the behavior of the projectile. For example, in embodiments in which the head cap 24 contains explosives, the impact of the head cap 24 with the target may detonate the explosives. In other embodiments, such as those in which the head cap 24 contains technological components, the head cap 24 may separate from the head base under impact in order to deploy the payload housed within the head cap 24.

[0121] Referring now to FIG. 8, an illustrative diagram of a process 80 for producing a two piece spinning projectile is depicted. In these embodiments, the process 80 may involve providing a projectile having a head 1 and an integral stem component 7 extending from a rear surface of said head, as shown at block 82. With the projectile provided, the process may advance to block 84, which may involve providing a sleeve component that is substantially cylindrical and hollow. In these embodiments, the sleeve component may be positioned over the stem component, as illustrated at block 86.

[0122] With the sleeve component positioned over the stem component, the process may advance to block 88, which may involve flaring a read end of the stem component to form a base component. As the stem component is flared to form the base component, the process may further involve capturing the sleeve component on the stem component by forming the base component, such that the sleeve component is rotatable relative the stem component, as shown at block 90.

[0123] This detailed description and the accompanying drawing illustrate the some embodiments of the projectile, but it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise details herein described. Variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0124] As noted above, the present innovation is believed to have the advantage of reducing the mass of the projectile that must spin. This is believed to reduce any disturbances in ballistics caused by wobbling due to inconsistencies within the projectile itself. Further, by reducing the surface area that contacts the inner bore surface, it is believed that there will be a reduction of projectile friction, and thus a reduction of heat generation that will lead to an increase in the sustained firing rate. The reduction of the friction between the projectile and the bore will also likely result in a reduction in the powder charge needed to fire the projectile. Reducing the powder charge may enhance the ability to provide for better silencing of subsonic rounds for pistols and rifles, putting more rounds on target. Reduced powder charges should also allow for more ammunition to be carried by the battlefield warrior.

[0125] In addition to the above benefits, for large-bore diameter projectiles, a spinning projectile design is believed to allow for an extended range for the projectile trajectory, with a concomitant increased range for standoff distance. These benefits should increase safety of the warrior in battlefield conditions.

[0126] An embodiment of the present invention is a projectile for discharging from a weapon with a bore having inner rifling. The projectile has a head, a base, and a sleeve. The head and base are disposed within the sleeve, and the sleeve has a diameter larger than the diameter of the head and base. The sleeve can rotate independent of the head and base and is the only portion of the projectile that engages with the inner rifling and is thus the only portion of the projectile that is subject to spinning imparted by the rifling.

[0127] Another embodiment of the present invention is a projectile for discharging from a weapon having inner rifling. The projectile has a generally cylindrical body, a generally pointed head attached to an end of the body, and a cylindrical sleeve having a diameter larger than said body and head. The body and head are disposed within the sleeve. The sleeve is rotatable independent of the head and body. The sleeve engages with the inner rifling and is subject to spinning imparted by the rifling.

[0128] Another embodiment is a method of firing a weapon. The method comprises aiming a weapon comprising a bore having inner rifling toward a target, and discharging a projectile, comprising a generally cylindrical body, a generally pointed head attached to an end of the body, and a cylindrical sleeve having a diameter larger than the body and head wherein the body and head are disposed within the sleeve.

[0129] This summary of the invention does not necessarily describe all features of the invention.

[0130] An embodiment of the invention is disclosed herein, and it should be understood that numerous modifications, alterations, and variations are possible and practicable by those skilled in the art while still coming within the spirit of the invention and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. While the foregoing written description and drawings of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention as claimed. Moreover, the terms consisting, comprising and other derivatives from the term comprise are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of any stated features, elements, steps, or components, and are not intended to preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof. Moreover, Applicants have endeavored in the present specification and drawings to draw attention to certain features of the invention, it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect to any patentable feature or combination of features referred to in the specification or drawings. The drawings are provided to illustrate features of the invention, but the claimed invention is expressly not limited to the illustrated embodiments.

[0131] Further aspects of the embodiments described herein are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:

[0132] 1. A projectile, comprising: a head having a forward tip and a rear end; a stem extending from said rear end of said head and formed integrally with said head; a sleeve, said sleeve positioned adjacent to said head and being collinear with said head, said sleeve being coaxial with said stem; said sleeve being hollow and substantially cylindrical and having an inner diameter and an outer diameter; and a base formed integrally with said stem by pressing a rearward end of said stem and expanding a rear dimension of said stem to capture said sleeve between said base and said head; wherein the head and the base are rotatably dependent upon each other by connection with said stem, and wherein said head, said stem, and said base are rotationally independent of said sleeve.

[0133] 2. The projectile of clause 1, wherein said base has an outer diameter that is larger than said inner diameter of said sleeve, such that said sleeve is configured to rotate upon discharge of said projectile.

[0134] 3. The projectile of clause 1, wherein said sleeve rotates independently of said head and said base, and said sleeve rotation imparted by discharge of said projectile.

[0135] 4. The projectile of clause 1, said stem being longer than said sleeve.

[0136] 5. The projectile of clause 1, wherein said head and said stem are joined together during manufacture.

[0137] 6. The projectile of clause 1, wherein said base expands by application of force to retain said sleeve on said stem.

[0138] 7. The projectile of clause 1, said base being defined by a flare of an end of said stem.

[0139] 8. The projectile of clause 1, said head having a one or more separations which allow for expansion upon impact.

[0140] 9. The projectile of clause 1, wherein said sleeve includes at least one engagement feature on an exterior surface of said sleeve, said at least one engagement feature being configured to interact with rifling of a weapon.

[0141] 10. The projectile of clause 1, wherein said sleeve is formed of a sleeve material and said stem is formed of a stem material, said sleeve material having a lower coefficient of friction than said stem material to facilitate independent rotation of said sleeve.

[0142] 11. The projectile of clause 1, wherein said base is configured to expand radially outward upon application of an axial force to capture said stem between said base and said head.

[0143] 12. The projectile of clause 1, wherein said stem and said base each include an alignment mechanism for aligning said stem and said base.

[0144] 13. The projectile of clause 1, wherein said forward tip of said head is a hollow tip and is formed of at least one of copper or brass.

[0145] 14. The projectile of clause 1, wherein said forward tip of said head is a monolithic one-piece structure.

[0146] 15. A projectile, comprising: a base; a stem passing through a hollow interior of said base; a head at an end of said stem opposite from said base; and a sleeve disposed over said stem and captured between said base and said head, said sleeve capable of rotation relative to said head, said stem, and said base; said head disposed at one axial end of said sleeve, and said base disposed at an opposite axial end of said sleeve; said base formed by a flared end of said stem; said sleeve having a larger diameter than said head and said base such that said sleeve is configured to rotate; wherein said sleeve rotates independently of said head and said base.

[0147] 16. The projectile of clause 15, said stem being longer than said sleeve.

[0148] 17. The projectile of clause 15, wherein said head and said stem are joined together during manufacture.

[0149] 18. The projectile of clause 15, wherein said base expands by application of force to retain said sleeve on said stem.

[0150] 19. The projectile of clause 15, said head having a one or more separations which allow for expansion upon impact.

[0151] 20. A process for producing a two piece spinning projectile, comprising the steps of: providing a bullet having a head and an integral stem extending from a rear surface of said head; providing a sleeve that is substantially cylindrical and hollow; positioning said sleeve over said stem; flaring a rear end of said stem to form a base; and capturing said sleeve on said stem by forming said base, such that said sleeve is rotatable relative to said stem.

[0152] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms a, an, and the are intended to include the plural forms, including at least one, unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. Or means and/or. As used herein, the term and/or includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms comprises and/or comprising, or includes and/or including when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The term or a combination thereof means a combination including at least one of the foregoing elements.

[0153] It is noted that the terms substantially and about may be utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. These terms are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

[0154] While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.