Abstract
A projectile launch device capable of launching a variety of equipment, including flotation devices, predator deterrents, mooring lines and fire retardants, is disclosed. An exemplary projectile launch device in accordance with the present invention includes an actuating head, a gas storage vessel coupled to the actuating head, a launch frame coupled to the actuating head, and a trigger assembly coupled to the actuating head. A plunger assembly is positioned at least partially inside the actuating head, and a trigger assembly is operably connected to the plunger assembly to allow the release of air pressure from within the gas storage vessel to the projectile launch frame.
Claims
1. A projectile launch device comprising: a) an actuating head; b) a gas storage vessel coupled to the actuating head, wherein the gas storage cylinder is configured to store a pressurized gas; c) a launch frame coupled to the actuating head; and d) a trigger assembly coupled to the actuating head.
2. The projectile launch device of claim 1, wherein the actuating head comprises: (i) a primary cavity having a plurality of primary ports; (ii) a pressure-balancing cavity having a plurality of pressure-balancing ports; and (iii) a plunger assembly positioned at least partially within the primary cavity.
3. The projectile launch device of claim 2, further comprising a plunger assembly positioned at least partially within the primary cavity of the actuating head, wherein the plunger assembly is operatively connected to the trigger assembly such that actuation of the trigger assembly causes the plunger assembly to release the pressurized gas from the gas storage vessel into the launch frame.
4. The projectile launch device of claim 3, wherein the plurality of primary ports comprise: i) a primary inlet port formed in a first face of the actuating head, wherein the primary inlet port fluidly connects the primary cavity to an outlet of the gas storage vessel; ii) a primary outlet port formed in a second face of the actuating head configured to selectively vent the pressurized gas from the primary cavity to ambient atmosphere; and iii) a primary side port formed in a side wall of the actuating head, wherein the primary side port fluidly connects the primary cavity to an inlet of the launch frame.
5. The projectile launch device of claim 4, wherein the plunger assembly comprises: i) a bleed stem operatively connected to the trigger assembly, the bleed stem having an elongated body extending from a flange; ii) a moveable plug disposed within the primary cavity of the actuating head; iii) a spring positioned between the bleed stem and the moveable plug, wherein the spring operatively engages the plug to bias the plug into a rest position within the primary cavity for sealing the primary inlet port of the actuating head, and wherein the spring operatively engages the bleed stem to bias the bleed stem into a rest position within the primary cavity for sealing the primary outlet port of the actuating head.
6. The projectile launch device of claim 5, wherein the pressure-balancing cavity of the actuating head is in fluid communication with the gas storage vessel and configured to direct gas to a space above the movable plug within the primary cavity to enable pressure equalization across opposing surfaces of the plug when the projectile launch device is in an unactuated state.
7. The projectile launch device of claim 6, wherein the plurality of pressure-balancing ports comprise: i) a pressure-balancing inlet port formed in a first face of the actuating head and in fluid communication with the outlet of the gas storage vessel; ii) a pressure-balancing outlet port positioned adjacent to the primary cavity for fluidly connecting the pressure-balancing cavity to the primary cavity at a position proximate to the second face of the actuating head relative to the first face; and iii) a pressure-balancing side port formed in the side wall of the actuating head.
8. The projectile launch device of claim of 7, wherein the launch frame comprises a projectile launch chamber and a cable storage chamber.
9. The projectile launch device of claim 8, wherein the projectile launch chamber comprises an intake port coupled to the primary side port of the actuating head.
10. The projectile launch device of claim 9, and wherein the projectile launch chamber houses a projectile, wherein the cable storage chamber houses a retrieval cable, and wherein the retrieval cable is attached to the projectile.
11. The projectile launch device of claim 10, wherein the projectile is a flotation device.
12. The projectile launch device of claim 10, wherein the trigger assembly comprises: (i) a base; (ii) a fixed handle connected to the base; (iii) an actuating handle pivotally connected to base and movable between a rest position and an actuated position.
13. The projectile launch device of claim 12, wherein the projectile launch device further comprises a head cap configured to secure the bleed stem of the plunger assembly partially within the actuating head, the head cap having a guide port through which the elongated body of the bleed stem protrudes in the unactuated state of the projectile launch device.
14. The quick-actuating launch device of claim 13, wherein the gas storage cylinder further comprises a fill valve and a pressure safety valve.
15. The quick-actuating launch device of claim 14, further comprising a pressure gauge removably connected to the pressure-balancing side port.
16. A projectile launch device comprising: a) an actuating head, wherein the actuating head comprises: (i) a primary cavity having a plurality of primary ports; (ii) a pressure-balancing cavity having a plurality of pressure-balancing ports; and (iii) a plunger assembly positioned at least partially within the primary cavity; b) a gas storage vessel coupled to the actuating head, wherein the gas storage cylinder is configured to store a pressurized gas; c) a launch frame coupled to the actuating head, wherein the launch frame comprises a projectile launch chamber and a cable storage chamber; and d) a trigger assembly coupled to the actuating head.
17. The projectile launch device of claim 16, wherein the plurality of primary ports comprise: i) a primary inlet port formed in a first face of the actuating head, wherein the primary inlet port fluidly connects the primary cavity to an outlet of the gas storage vessel; ii) a primary outlet port formed in a second face of the actuating head configured to selectively vent the pressurized gas from the primary cavity to ambient atmosphere; and iii) a primary side port formed in a side wall of the actuating head, wherein the primary side port fluidly connects the primary cavity to an inlet of the launch frame; and wherein the plurality of pressure-balancing ports comprise: iv) a pressure-balancing inlet port formed in a first face of the actuating head and in fluid communication with the outlet of the gas storage vessel; v) a pressure-balancing outlet port positioned adjacent to the primary cavity for fluidly connecting the pressure-balancing cavity to the primary cavity at a position proximate to the second face of the actuating head relative to the first face; and vi) a pressure-balancing side port formed in the side wall of the actuating head.
18. The projectile launch device of claim 17, wherein the plunger assembly comprises: i) a bleed stem operatively connected to the trigger assembly, the bleed stem having an elongated body extending from a flange; ii) a moveable plug disposed within the primary cavity of the actuating head; iii) a spring positioned between the bleed stem and the moveable plug, wherein the spring operatively engages the plug to bias the plug into a rest position within the primary cavity for sealing the primary inlet port of the actuating head, and wherein the spring operatively engages the bleed stem to bias the bleed stem into a rest position within the primary cavity for sealing the primary outlet port of the actuating head.
19. A projectile launch device comprising: a) an actuating head, wherein the actuating head comprises: i) a primary cavity having a plurality of primary ports, wherein the plurality of primary ports comprise: a primary inlet port formed in a first face of the actuating head, wherein the primary inlet port fluidly connects the primary cavity to an outlet of the gas storage vessel; a primary outlet port formed in a second face of the actuating head configured to selectively vent the pressurized gas from the primary cavity to ambient atmosphere; and a primary side port formed in a side wall of the actuating head, wherein the primary side port fluidly connects the primary cavity to an inlet of the launch frame; and ii) a pressure-balancing cavity having a plurality of pressure-balancing ports, wherein the plurality of pressure-balancing ports comprise: a pressure-balancing inlet port formed in a first face of the actuating head and in fluid communication with the outlet of the gas storage vessel; a pressure-balancing outlet port positioned adjacent to the primary cavity for fluidly connecting the pressure-balancing cavity to the primary cavity at a position proximate to the second face of the actuating head relative to the first face; and a pressure-balancing side port formed in the side wall of the actuating head; and iii) a plunger assembly positioned at least partially within the primary cavity, wherein the plunger assembly comprises: a bleed stem operatively connected to the trigger assembly, the bleed stem having an elongated body extending from a flange; a moveable plug disposed within the primary cavity of the actuating head; a spring positioned between the bleed stem and the moveable plug, wherein the spring operatively engages the plug to bias the plug into a rest position within the primary cavity for sealing the primary inlet port of the actuating head, and wherein the spring operatively engages the bleed stem to bias the bleed stem into a rest position within the primary cavity for sealing the primary outlet port of the actuating head; and b) a gas storage vessel coupled to the actuating head, wherein the gas storage cylinder is configured to store a pressurized gas; c) a launch frame coupled to the actuating head, wherein the launch frame comprises a projectile launch chamber and a cable storage chamber; and d) a trigger assembly coupled to the actuating head.
20. The projectile launch device of claim 19, wherein the projectile launch chamber comprises an intake port coupled to the primary side port of the actuating head.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a side view of a first exemplary embodiment of the projectile launch device of the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0013] FIG. 3 is a cross-section of the storage vessel and base assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0014] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the storage vessel, base plate, and plastic cover of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 5 is a cross-section of the actuating head, actuating head cap, plunger assembly, and trigger assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0016] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the actuating head, actuating head cap, plunger assembly, and trigger assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the plunger assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 8 is a cross section of the actuating head cap of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 9 is a cross section of the actuating head of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the trigger assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the trigger assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0022] FIG. 12 is a cross section of the launch assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 1.
[0023] FIG. 13 is a side view of a second exemplary embodiment of the projectile launch device of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0025] FIG. 15 is a cross section of the base assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0026] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the base plate of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0027] FIG. 17 is a cross section of the actuating head, stem guide, plunger assembly, and trigger assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0028] FIG. 18 is a cross section of the actuating head of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0029] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the actuating head of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0030] FIG. 20 is an exploded view of the launch frame of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0031] FIG. 21 is a cross section of the stem guide of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0032] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the stem guide of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0033] FIG. 23 is an exploded view of the plunger assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0034] FIG. 24 is an exploded view of the trigger assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 13.
[0035] FIG. 25 is a side view of a third exemplary embodiment of the projectile launch device of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 26 is an exploded view of the projectile launch device of FIG. 25.
[0037] FIG. 27 is a cross section of the actuating head, stem guide, plunger assembly, and trigger assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 25.
[0038] FIG. 28 is a cross section of the actuating head of the projectile launch device of FIG. 25.
[0039] FIG. 29 is a cross section of the stem guide of the projectile launch device of FIG. 25.
[0040] FIG. 30 is an exploded view of the plunger assembly of the projectile launch device of FIG. 25.
[0041] FIG. 31 is a side view of an exemplary projectile launch device comprising an anchor attachment.
[0042] FIG. 32 is a side view of an exemplary projectile launch device comprising a carrying strap.
[0043] FIG. 33 is a side view of an exemplary projectile launch device comprising a detachable air pump.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0044] Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Alternate embodiments may be devised without departing from the spirit or the scope of the invention. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention. While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward.
[0045] As used herein, the terms a or an are defined as one or more than one. The term plurality, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term another, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms comprises, comprising, or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements, but may include, other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by comprises does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element. The terms including, having, or featuring, as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term coupled, as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. As used herein, the term about or approximately applies to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. Relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, right and left, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.
[0046] Referring now to FIGS. 1-33, exemplary embodiments of a projectile launch device 1 having features of the present invention are shown. The projectile launch device 1 may be used to rapidly deploy a projectile, such as a life-saving floatation device, to a person in distress in the water. In other embodiments, the launch frame may be preloaded with a wide range of projectiles for use in other applications (e.g., safety, industrial, or other lifesaving applications). For example, the launch frame may be loaded with a mooring line, a grappling hook, or a predator deterrent. The projectile launch device 1 is configured to allow the preloaded launch frame to be easily removed and replaced with another preloaded launch frame containing different equipment. Additionally, the projectile launch device 1 preferably is not shaped like a weapon so that it may be quickly recognized as safety equipment by an emergency responder.
[0047] A first exemplary embodiment of a projectile launch device 1 having features of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 1-12. Turning to FIGS. 1-2, the projectile launch device 1 may comprise a gas storage vessel 10, an actuating head 30, a launch frame 50, and a trigger assembly 60. The actuating head 30 functions to fluidly connect the gas storage vessel 10 and the launch frame 50. The actuating head 30 comprises a plunger assembly 70 that is at least partially situated inside the actuating head 30. The plunger assembly 70 functions to selectively seal the path of fluid communication between the gas storage vessel 10, the actuating head 30, and the launch frame 50. The launch frame 50 removably connects to the actuating head 30, preferably via a quick-release connection. The trigger assembly 60 engages with and controls the actuation of the plunger assembly 70. When the trigger assembly 60 is actuated, it triggers the displacement of the plunger assembly 70 and opens the line of fluid communication between the gas storage tank 10, the actuating head 30, and the launch frame 50. This releases the compressed gas inside the gas storage tank 10, which flows out through the actuating head 30 and into the launch frame 50, forcing the launch of a projectile 54 from the launch frame 50. In certain embodiments, the projectile launch device 1 may further comprise a head cap 40 configured to secure the plunger assembly 70 partially within the actuating head 30. The head cap 40 may comprise a top face 43 and a side wall 41 with internal threads configured to mate with the external threads 39 of the actuating head 30. In other embodiments without a head cap 40, the features of the head cap can be integrated into the base of the trigger assembly 60.
[0048] Still referring to the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-12, the storage vessel 10 is a hollow cylinder having open ends 12, 13. The first end 12 of hollow cylinder 10 is sealed by a base plate 20, which may be attached by any suitable means that provides an airtight seal. The second end 13 of the vessel 10 is sealed by the actuating head 30. The base plate 20 optionally may comprise a gaseous fill port 24 and a pressure safety port 26. Viewing FIGS. 3-4, a gaseous fill valve 23 with a removable cap is connected to gaseous fill port 24 to allow storage vessel 10 to be filled with ambient air or any other compressible gas and to contain the gas when the cap is attached. A pressure safety valve 25 is connected to pressure safety port 26 and automatically releases gas from storage vessel 10 if the pressure exceeds the storage capacity of storage vessel 10 or exceeds a predetermined maximum pressure setting of the vessel 10. In alternative embodiments, the base plate 20 may be integrally formed with the storage vessel 10, thereby providing a storage vessel having at least one closed end. In further alternative embodiments, the storage vessel 10 can be formed in a variety of shapes (e.g., spherical, rectangular, custom-shaped).
[0049] In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIGS. 1-4, the diameter of base plate 20 is smaller than the diameter of storage vessel 10 such that base plate 20 is seated inside storage vessel 10 when the projectile launch device 1 is assembled. In this embodiment, to protect gaseous fill valve 23 and pressure safety valve 25 from inadvertent tampering, a plastic cover 27 may be provided that removably connects to projections 14 on the first end 12 of storage vessel 10. In other embodiments, such as that shown in FIGS. 14-15, side walls 210 extend out from base plate 200 far enough to protect gaseous fill valve 230 and pressure safety valve 240 from inadvertent tampering. In this embodiment, the diameter of base plate 200 is large enough in relation to the diameter of storage vessel 100 such that base plate 200 is seated on and sealed around first end 120 of storage vessel 100, and no projections are provided on the first end 120.
[0050] Referring now to FIGS. 2, 5-6 and 9, the actuating head 30 comprises a side wall 31, a first end or face 32, a second end or face 33, a primary cavity 34, a plurality of primary ports 35a-c, a pressure-balancing cavity 36, a plurality of pressure-balancing ports 37a-c, and a plunger assembly 70.
[0051] The first face 32 of the actuating head 30 is connected to the second end 13 of storage vessel 10 by any suitable means known in the art (e.g., threaded connections, flanged connections, etc.) suitable for providing an airtight seal between storage vessel 10 and actuating head 30. The second face 33 of the actuating head 30 is connected the head cap 40 (via threads 39 formed on primary outlet port 35b), or the actuating head 30 can be connected directly to the trigger assembly 60 by threads formed in the base of the trigger assembly 60 or by any conventional means known in the art.
[0052] The primary cavity 34 of the actuating head 30 is configured to house the plunger assembly 70 (discussed below). The primary cavity 34 comprises a plurality of primary ports 37a-c. In the depicted embodiment, the primary inlet port 35a is formed in the first face 32 of the actuating head 30, the primary outlet port 35b is formed in the second face 33 of the actuating head 30, and the primary side port 35c is formed in the side wall 31 of the actuating head 30. The primary inlet port 35a fluidly connects the primary cavity 34 of the actuating head 30 to the outlet of the storage vessel 10. The primary outlet port 35b fluidly connects the primary cavity 34 of the actuating head 30 to the atmosphere. The primary side port 35c fluidly connects the primary cavity 34 of the actuating head 30 to the inlet of the launch frame 50 as shown in FIG. 5.
[0053] The plunger assembly 70 of the actuating head 30 controls the release of pressure from the storage vessel 10 through the primary side port 35 and into the launch frame 50 (see FIGS. 2, 5, and 7). The plunger assembly 70 may comprise a plug 71, a spring 75, a bleed stem 76, and one or more gaskets 79a-d. The plug 71 includes a groove 72 on each end in which elastomeric sealing gaskets 79a, 79b may be seated. When the projectile launch device 1 is pressurized, the plug 71 and the gasket 79a rest at the entrance of the internal cavity 34 to completely seal the storage vessel 10 from the internal cavity 34 (see FIG. 5). Spring 75 sits within the internal cavity 34 and comprises a first end 73 and a second end 74. The first end of the spring 75 functions to exert a force against the bleed stem 76 to seal the primary cavity 34 at its primary outlet port 35b, while the second end 74 of the spring 75 functions to exert a force against the plug 71 to seal the vessel 10. Bleed stem 76 comprises a longitudinal body that extends perpendicularly from a flange or flat disc 77, with the flat disc 77 (or flange 77) being adapted to engage the spring 75 on its first end 73. The flat disc 77 has a groove 78 in which elastomeric sealing gasket 79d may be seated. When the projectile launch device 1 is pressurized, the flat disc 77 and the gasket 79c rest at the mouth of the primary outlet port 39 in the top face 33 to completely seal the internal cavity 34 from the ambient air. The flat disc 77 of the bleed stem 76 rests against top face 43 of head cap 40, and the bleed stem 76 itself passes through a guide port 45 in the top face 43 of the head cap 40. Thus, the head cap 40 maintains the proper alignment and positioning of the plunger assembly 70 within the internal cavity 34 of the actuating head 30. A final gasket 79d is situated in between the flat disc 77 and the top face 43 of the cap 40.
[0054] The pressure-balancing cavity 36 of the actuating head 30 is in fluid communication with the gas storage vessel 10 and configured to direct gas to the space above the movable plug 71 within the primary cavity 34, thereby enabling pressure equalization across opposing surfaces of the plug 71 when the projectile launch device 1 is in the unactuatedor armedstate. In this manner, the pressure-balancing cavity 36 aides the spring 75 in maintaining the plug 71 and gasket 79a in position at the primary inlet port 35a to seal the storage vessel 10 and prevent the release of gas into the internal cavity 34 (see FIG. 5) in the unactuated state. As best shown in FIG. 9, the pressure-balancing cavity 36 comprises a plurality of pressure-balancing ports 37a-c. A pressure-balancing inlet port 37a is formed in the first face 32; a pressure-balancing outlet port 37b is positioned adjacent to the primary cavity 34 for fluidly connecting the pressure-balancing cavity 36 to the primary cavity 34 at a position proximate to the second face 33 (relative to the first face 32) of the actuating head 30; and a pressure-balancing side port 35c is formed in the side wall 31 of the actuating head 30. In certain embodiments, a pressure gauge 38 may be removably connected to the pressure-balancing side port 35c, sealing the internal components of the projectile launch device 1 from the ambient air and allowing pressure gauge 38 to read the pressure in both the internal cavity 34 and the storage vessel 10. The pressure gauge 38 preferably is designed with a clear, simple display that may be quickly and easily read by the operator in an emergency to determine whether projectile launch device 1 is ready for use. As noted above, pressure-balancing cavity 36 allows pressurized gas from the storage vessel 10 to flow into the internal cavity above plug 71, equalizing the pressure of the internal cavity 34 and the storage vessel 10.
[0055] Turning to FIGS. 2, 5, and 10-11, the trigger assembly 60 may comprise a base 61, a rigid handle 63, and an actuating handle 68. The base 61 is configured to have a bottom opening that is wider in diameter than the actuating head 30 and the head cap 40 such that the trigger assembly 60 can slide over the actuating head and head cap 40 in a sleevedor telescopingarrangement and then be secured to the actuating head 30 and the head cap 40. The base 61 has a recess 62 in which a level may be installed to signify to the user that they are shooting at the most efficient angle. The base 61 also has a rigid handle 63 and an aperture 64 in the rigid handle. The trigger assembly 60 further includes an actuating handle 68 pivotally connected to the rigid handle 63 on the base 61. The actuating handle 68 also has a head portion 67 and an aperture 69 in the head portion 67. When the trigger assembly 60 is assembled and seated on the actuating head 30 and actuating head cap 40, the head portion 67 of the actuating handle 68 rests against the tip of the bleed stem 76 protruding from the guide port 45 of cap 40. When the actuating handle 68 is compressed towards the rigid handle 63, the head portion 67 rotates into and compresses the bleed stem 76 into the spring 75, actuating the launch of the projectile 54, as further described below. The aperture 69 of the actuating handle 68 aligns with the aperture 64 of the rigid handle 63 when the actuating handle 68 is in the cocked/armed position. A safety pin 66 may pass through both apertures 64, 69 (as shown in FIG. 10) and utilize any suitable locking mechanism so that the pin 66 does not fall out of the apertures 64, 69. When the pin 66 is in place, it prevents the head 67 of the actuating handle 68 from rotating into the actuating position to prevent accidental discharge of the projectile 54.
[0056] Turning to FIGS. 2 and 12, the launch frame 50 has two chambers: a projectile launch chamber 51 and a cable storage chamber 56. The projectile launch chamber 51 has a launch frame inlet port 52 that is fluidly connected to the primary cavity 34 of the actuating head 30 via the primary side port 35. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-12, the communication port 52 is connected to the primary side port 35 via conversion fitting 53, but in other embodiments, the communication port 52 may directly engage with the primary side port 35 without the need for the conversion fitting 53. Furthermore, as shown in the embodiments pictured in FIGS. 13-33, alternative configurations of the projectile launch device 1 may utilize a communication tube 520 between the primary side port 35 and the launch frame inlet port 52, allowing the launch chamber 51 to be oriented in any preferred direction that may be effective for launching the projectile 54. The projectile 54 is shaped such that it sits flush against the interior surface of the projectile launch chamber 51. The cable storage chamber 56 has a plug 58 that secures the end of a retrieval cable 57 to the wall of the cable storage chamber 56. Retrieval cable 57 may be used in certain applications to retrieve and reuse the projectile 54, or for example, in water rescues, the emergency responder may use retrieval cable 57 to pull the rescued person to safety. As can be seen in FIG. 12, when the projectile 54 is loaded in the projectile launch chamber 53, the cable 57 extends from the projectile 54 out of the launch opening 55 of projectile launch chamber 51 into the cable storage chamber 56, where the cable 57 is spooled and secured by plug 58.
[0057] In operation, the projectile launch device 1 depicted in FIGS. 1-12 is prepared for use by filling the gas storage vessel 10 with a compressible gas through the gaseous fill port 24, which in turn causes the internal cavity 34 of actuating head 30 to fill with pressurized gas due to the internal cavity 34 being fluidly connected to the storage vessel 10 via the pressure-balancing cavity 36. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the projectile launch device 1 may be pre-pressurized for the user. When the user is ready to launch the projectile launch device 1, the user will hold the rigid handle 63 to aim the projectile launch device 1, using the level located in the recess 62 of the trigger assembly 60 as a guide. When the device 1 is aimed and the safety pin 66 is removed, the user may apply pressure to the actuating handle 68, which rotates the head portion 67 of the actuating handle 68 into the bleed stem 76. The bleed stem 76 will be forced into the primary cavity 34 of the actuating head 30 and cause the disc 77 of the bleed stem 76 to disengage from the head cap 40 and rapidly release compressed gas from the internal cavity 34 of actuating head 30 through the primary outlet port 35b, and out of the guide port 45 in the top face 43 of actuating head cap 40. This rapid release of gas creates a pressure differential between the storage vessel 10 and the internal cavity 34 of the actuating head 30. This causes the pressure in storage vessel 10 to overcome the force of spring 75 and push plug 71 into internal cavity 34 far enough that it allows fluid communication between the outlet of the storage vessel 10 and primary side port 35. Compressed gas rushes out of storage vessel 10 through primary inlet port 35, and then travels through internal cavity 34 and exits through primary side port 35 into launch frame 50. The force of the compressed gas launches projectile 54 out of launch opening 55 of launch frame 50. To reload the projectile launch device 1 and reseal the storage vessel 10 after the projectile 54 has been launched, the user can use an air compressor or compressed gas cartridge to refill the storage vessel 10 and internal cavity 34 through the gaseous fill valve 23 in base plate 20 and can replace the launch frame with a new preloaded launch frame 50.
[0058] Referring now to FIGS. 13-24, a second exemplary embodiment of a projectile launch device 1 having features of the present invention is shown. The adjustable projectile launch device 1 may comprise a storage vessel 100, a base plate 200, an actuating head 300, and a launch frame 500. The base plate 200 is connected to the first end 120 of the vessel 100, while the actuating head 300 is connected to the second end 130 of the storage vessel 100 to provide an airtight storage cannister capable of storing compressed gas. The launch frame 500 is connected to the pressure containing actuating head 300, preferably via a quick-release connection. The actuating head 300 is in fluid communication with both the gas storage tank 100 and the launch frame 500. The actuating head 300 comprises a plunger assembly 700 that is at least partially situated inside the actuating head 300 and selectively seals the path of fluid communication between the gas storage tank 100 and the actuating head 300. The trigger assembly 600 engages with and controls the actuation of the plunger assembly 700. The plunger assembly 700 is held in proper alignment by a stem guide 400. The gas storage vessel 100 of launch device 1 is filled with a pressurized gas and sealed by base plate 200, actuating head 300, and plunger assembly 700. When the trigger assembly 600 is actuated, it triggers the displacement of the plunger assembly 700 and opens the line of fluid communication between the gas storage tank 100 and the actuating head 300. This releases the compressed gas inside the gas storage tank 100, which flows out of the actuating head 300 and through the launch frame 500, forcing the launch of a projectile 540 from the launch frame 500.
[0059] In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 13-24, the storage vessel 100 is a hollow cylinder having open ends. The base plate 200 may include a retaining groove 222 (best seen in FIG. 16) that engages with a projection 122 on the first end 120 of storage vessel 100 to provide an airtight seal between them. The base plate 200 further includes a gaseous fill port 224 and a pressure safety port 226. Viewing FIG. 15, a gaseous fill valve 230 with a removable cap is connected to gaseous fill port 224 to allow storage vessel 100 to be filled with air or another compressible gas and to contain the gas when the cap is attached. A pressure safety valve 240 is connected to pressure safety port 226 and automatically releases gas from storage vessel 100 if the pressure becomes too great. Side walls 210 extend out from base plate 200 far enough to protect gaseous fill valve 230 and pressure safety valve 240 from inadvertent tampering. In alternative embodiments, the base plate 200 may be integrally formed with the storage vessel 100, thereby providing a storage vessel having at least one closed end.
[0060] Referring to FIGS. 17-19, the actuating head 300 has an enclosing face 320 that is connected to the second end 130 of storage vessel 100, side wall 310, and a top face 330. The enclosing face 320 has a retaining groove 322 that engages with a projection 132 on the second end 130 of storage vessel 100 to provide an airtight seal between the storage vessel 100 and the actuating head. The actuating head 300 includes a bi-directional port 360, which provides a pathway for fluid communication between the first opening 362 in the sidewall 310 and the second opening 364 in the enclosing face 320. A pressure gauge 366 is connected to the first opening 362 of the bi-directional port 360, allowing the pressure gauge 366 to access and measure the internal air pressure of the storage vessel 100. The pressure gauge 366 preferably is designed with a clear, simple display that may be quickly and easily read by the operator in an emergency to determine whether projectile launch device 1 is ready for use.
[0061] The actuating head 300 may further comprise a guide cavity 340 and an air chamber 350. The guide cavity 340 is open through the top face 330, while the air chamber 350 is open through a first port 324 in the enclosing face 320. The guide cavity 340 and the air chamber 350 are open to each other, but the air chamber 350 is narrower than the guide cavity 340, creating a lip 342 where the guide cavity 340 ends and the air chamber 350 begins. The air chamber 350 has an second port 352 through the side wall 310. Turning to FIG. 20, the second port 352 may be in fluid communication with the launch frame 500 via the communication tube 520. The communication tube 520 connects to the second port 352 on one end and to the communication port 510 of the launch frame 500 on the other end. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 13-24, the communication tube 520 is connected to the second port 352 and the communication port 510 via conversion fittings 522, but in other embodiments, the communication tube 520 may directly engage with the second port 352, launch frame 500, or both without the need for the conversion fittings 522.
[0062] Viewing FIGS. 13-14, 17, and 21-22, the actuating head 300 houses the plunger assembly 700, which controls the release of pressure from the storage vessel 100 through the second port 352. The proper alignment of plunger assembly 700 is maintained by the stem guide 400. The stem guide 400 may comprise a bottom face 420, a top face 430, and a side wall 410. The top face 430 of the stem guide 400 includes a geometric fastening pattern 432 (shown in FIG. 22) that will be used in conjunction with custom tooling for the assembly and disassembly of the projectile launch device 1. The stem guide 400 may further comprise a stem-loader cavity 440 open through the top face 430 and a stem passageway 450 open through the bottom face 420. The stem-loader cavity 440 and the stem passageway 450 are open to each other, but the stem passageway 450 is narrower than the stem-loader cavity 440, creating a lip 442 where the stem-loader cavity 440 ends and the stem passageway 450 begins. The stem guide 400 sits inside the guide cavity 340 (FIG. 18) and is held in place by the lip 342. The stem guide 400 may further comprise external threads on the side walls 410 that threadingly engage with the internal threads inside the guide cavity 340 of the actuating head 300, further maintaining the stem guide 400 in place inside the actuating head 300.
[0063] Viewing FIG. 23, the plunger assembly 700 primarily comprises a main stem 720, which attaches to a sealing disc 710 at one end. The sealing disc 710 includes a groove 712 around its edges that holds an elastomeric sealing gasket 714. When the projectile launch device 1 is pressurized, the sealing disc 710 and the gasket 714 rest at the entrance of the air chamber 350 to completely seal the storage vessel 100 from the air chamber 350 (see FIG. 17). A spring 718 sits within the air chamber 350 exerting a force against the sealing disc 710 to maintain the sealing disc 710 in position against the air pressure inside storage vessel 100. Protruding from the sealing disc 710 is a geometric fastening pattern 716 that will be used in conjunction with custom tooling for the assembly and disassembly of the projectile launch device 1.
[0064] On the opposite end from the sealing disc 710, the main stem 720 has a threaded borehole 728, which threadingly engages with a stem loader 730. The stem loader 730 has a wide enough base to rest against the lip 442 (FIG. 21) within the stem-loader cavity 440, preventing the plunger assembly 700 from falling into storage vessel 100 when the launch device 1 is not pressurized. In the embodiment pictured, the stem loader 730 is a thumb screw, but in other embodiments the stem loader 730 could be a typical screw, or in further embodiments the main stem 720 could have a different connector type than a threaded bore 728, allowing the stem loader 730 to be any fastener suitable to maintain the plunger assembly 700 in place against the lip 442. The main stem 720 also has a plurality of grooves 722 for elastomeric sealing gaskets 724 that create sealing areas and concentricity placement between the main stem 720 and the stem passageway 450. Additionally, the main stem 720 has a groove 726 that engages with the trigger assembly 600.
[0065] Turning to FIG. 24, the trigger assembly 600 may comprise a trigger 610 pivotally connected to a trigger stem 620, a spring 630, and a spring fitting 640 with a central opening 642. The actuating head 300 has a first trigger stem port 344 (FIG. 18) which aligns with a second trigger stem port 452 (FIG. 21) in the stem guide 400 when the stem guide 400 is installed in the actuating head 300. Viewing FIG. 17, the trigger stem 620 extends from the trigger 610, through the central opening 642 in spring fitting 640, through the first and second trigger stem ports 344, 452, and finally fits into the groove 726 within the stem passageway 450 of the stem guide 400. Because the groove 726 wraps around the entire circumference of the main stem 720, the trigger stem 620 may fit into the groove 726 regardless of the circumferential orientation of the plunger assembly 700. The trigger stem 620 may be energy loaded with a spring 630 that is statically held in place within the first trigger stem port 344 between the spring fitting 640 and a rim 624 on the trigger stem 620. The trigger assembly 600 may be installed on a flat face 312 (FIG. 18) of the actuating head 300.
[0066] Viewing FIGS. 13-14 and 23, to operate the device, the user will hold the trigger assembly 600 and pull the trigger 610, which in turn pulls the trigger stem 620 out of the groove 726 against the force of the spring 630. Once the trigger stem 620 is removed from the plunger assembly 700, the force of the spring 718 is able to push the sealing disc 710 into the storage vessel 100, opening the fluid connection between the storage vessel 100 and the second port 352. Compressed gas rushes out of the storage vessel 100 into air chamber 350 through first port 324, out of air chamber 350 through second port 352, through the communication tube 520, and into the launch frame 500. The force of the gas launches the projectile 540 out of the launch opening 530 (FIG. 20) of the launch frame 500. Viewing FIG. 20, the projectile 540 is tethered to a retrieval cable 542, which connects to the launch frame 500 and allows the projectile 540 to be retrieved and reused. Another exemplary application of such a retrieval cable 542 would be in water rescues, where the projectile 540 is a floatation device, the emergency responder may use retrieval cable 542 to pull the rescued person to safety. The launch frame 500 may also include an ergonomic handle 550 that may be held by the user during the discharge of the projectile launch device 1 to maintain the device's orientation so that the projectile is deployed in the intended direction. To reload the projectile launch device 1 and reseal the vessel 100 after the projectile 540 has been launched, the user can engage the stem loader 730 to pull the plunger assembly 700 until the trigger stem 620 is again inserted into the groove 726, held in place by the pressure of the spring 630. Then, with the plunger assembly 700 securely locked into place, the user may refill the storage vessel 100.
[0067] Referring now to FIGS. 25-30, a third exemplary embodiment of the projectile launch device 1 is shown. This embodiment of projectile launch device 1 includes a storage vessel 1100, a base plate 1200, an actuating head 1300, a stem guide 1400, a launch frame 1500, a trigger assembly 1600, and a plunger assembly 1700. In the third exemplary embodiment, the storage vessel 1100, base plate 1200, launch frame 1500, and trigger assembly 1600 maintain their design from the second exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 13-24, while the actuating head 1300, stem guide 1400, and plunger assembly 1700 are modified, as described below.
[0068] Turning to FIGS. 27-28, the actuating head 1300 may comprise an enclosing face 1320 that is connected to the second end 1130 of the storage vessel 1100, a side wall 1310, and a top face 1330. The enclosing face 1320 has a retaining groove 1322 that engages with a projection 1132 on the second end 1130 of the storage vessel 1100 to provide an airtight seal between them. The actuating head 1300 may have a bi-directional port 1360, which provides a pathway for fluid communication between a first opening 1362 in the sidewall 1310 and a second opening 1364 in the enclosing face 1320 to allow a quick-reference pressure gauge 1366 to access and measure the internal air pressure of the storage vessel 1100. The actuating head 1300 may further comprise an inner chamber 1340 open through both the top face 1330 and a first port 1324 the bottom face 1320. The inner chamber 1340 may further comprise an second port 1346 through the side wall 1310 in fluid communication with the launch frame 1500 via the communication tube 1520 (see FIGS. 25-26).
[0069] Viewing FIG. 27, the actuating head 1300 houses the plunger assembly 1700, which controls the release of pressure from the storage vessel 1100 through the second port 1346. The proper alignment of the plunger assembly 1700 within the actuating head 1300 is maintained by the stem guide 1400. Turning to FIG. 29, the stem guide 1400 may comprise a top face 1430 and a side wall 1410. The top face 1430 of the stem guide 1400 includes a geometric fastening pattern (as shown in FIG. 22 with regard to the second embodiment) that will be used in conjunction with custom tooling for the assembly and disassembly of the projectile launch device 1. The stem guide 1400 may further comprise a stem passageway 1450 open through the top face 1430. The stem guide 1400 sits inside the guide cavity 1340 and is held in place by an upper lip 1342. The stem guide 1400 may further comprise external threads on the side walls 1410 that threadingly engage with internal threads inside the actuating head 1300, further maintaining the stem guide 1400 in place inside the actuating head 1300.
[0070] Viewing FIG. 30, the plunger assembly 1700 comprises a main stem 1720, a plug 1710 that is removably affixed to the main stem 1720, and a stem loader 1730. The main stem 1720 has a wide body 1724 with a groove 1726, a first threaded end 1722, and a second threaded end 1728. The trigger stem 1620 (FIG. 26) rests against the groove 1726 when the projectile launch device 1 is loaded. The first threaded end 1722 mates with a threaded cavity 1716 in the plug 1710 to removably affix the plug 1710 to the main stem 1720 and against the wide body 1724. In other embodiments, the plug 1710 may alternatively be removably affixed to the main stem 1720 by any number of suitable fixation methods. The plug 1710 may have a groove 1712 that holds an elastomeric sealing gasket 1714. The bottom of plug 1710 may be conically shaped and sit against another elastomeric sealing gasket 1718 resting against a lower lip 1348 (FIG. 28) of actuating head 1300 to completely seal the storage vessel 1100 from the inner chamber 1340. If needed during repairs throughout the life of the device, a spacer can be added between the wide body 1724 and the plug 1710 to push the plug 1710 further against the elastomeric sealing gasket 1718 and the entrance of the storage tank 1100 to improve the airtight seal. The second threaded end 1728 of the main stem 1720 mates with a threaded borehole 1732 in the stem loader 1730. The stem loader 1730 has a wide base that rests against the top face 1430 (FIG. 29) of the stem guide 1400. Because of the gasket 1718, the lower lip 1348, and the stem loader 1730, the main stem 1720 and the plug 1710 cannot accidentally fall into the storage vessel 1100.
[0071] Viewing FIGS. 25-28 and 30, to operate the device, the user will pull the trigger 1610, which in turn pulls the trigger stem 1620 out of the groove 1726 against the force of the spring 1630. Once the trigger stem 1620 is removed from the plunger assembly 1700, the pressure inside the storage vessel 1100 pushes outwards on the plug 1710, opening the fluid connection between the storage vessel 1100 and the second port 1346. Compressed gas rushes out of the storage vessel 1100 into inner chamber 1340 through first port 1324, out of inner chamber 1340 through second port 1346, through the communication tube 1520, into the launch frame 1500, launching the projectile 1540 out of the launch opening 1530 of the launch frame 1500. Once the projectile has been launched, the user can manually push down on the stem loader 1730 until the trigger stem 1620 re-inserts into the groove 1726, held in place by the pressure of the spring 1630. The wide, generally flat shape of the stem loader 1730 makes it less likely to cause injury when it pops out during launch and is ergonomically designed to allow the user to easily push the plunger assembly 1700 back down into place. Then, with the plunger assembly 1700 securely locked into place, the user may refill the storage vessel 1100.
[0072] In some embodiments, the projectile launch device of the present invention can further include an anchoring device 3 to steady the device 1 during deployment. An example of such an anchoring device is shown in FIG. 31. The anchoring device 3 may pivotally attach to the side wall 230 so that it may be stowed against the storage vessel 100 when not in use. In further alternative embodiments, the projectile launch device can include a carrying device 5 such as a strap, as shown in FIG. 32. In further alternative embodiments, the projectile launch device 1 can include a mechanically attached hand pump 7, as shown in FIG. 33.
[0073] Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teaching presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.
