Large Gauge Pneumatic Launcher

Abstract

A large gauge pneumatic launcher is disclosed to contain an innovative valve and valve chassis that enables said launcher to safely operate at compressed air pressures of 200-1000 psi, and launch large caliber paintball, Non-Lethal Weapon or other projectiles. The invention may be attached to an existing “host” paintball marker as an under-barrel second weapon. The valve and valve assembly may be fitted for use as a stand alone launching platform such as a pneumatic mortar, cannon or other system powered by compressed gas.

Description

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION [0001] Since the 1970's, paintball has developed from an occasional survival type recreational sport, enjoyed by a few players into a very well developed, world-wide industry and culture. More than 9 million people will participate in paintball related activities in 2004. The evolution of paintball guns, usually referred to as markers, has become more technological with an emphasis on rate of fire, weight reduction, electronics accessories and mechanisms, and accessories. [0002] Paintball markers shoot individual spherical rounds in calibers of approximately .068, at varied rates of fire, and at velocities of approximately 300 feet / per second. One area of interest to paintball participants has always been the use of personal and team artillery. However, the industry has not provided a valve assembly the industry has not provided a valve or valve assembly that enables large gauge projectiles of more than 35 mm to be safely and launched from a light-weight laun...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005] The main object of the invention is to provide an under-barrel, large gauge option to paintball competitors and NLW operators, which easily adapts to existing paintball markers, utilizing the host marker's compressed gas in such a manner that the marker continues to normally operate as it is designed.

[0008] The invention offers the rapidly growing paintball and NLW markets an affordable, safe and easy to operate, large gauge launcher option, with out the need to purchase a specific marker or gun, or expensive custom retrofit.

[0010] The second primary object of the invention is to provide a valve design that may become useful in the development of safe to operate pneumatic launchers such as cannons or other projectile launchers of varied design and purpose. Until now, the typical valve utilized in launchers was an expensive or difficult to operate ball valve, or solenoid valve, that could safely operate at pressures of up to a maximum 200 psi. The Warnock Valve and Warnock Valve Chassis combination presents a design that can be resized to meet the specific need of a developer requiring an air pressure of 200-1000 psi, or more.

Problems solved by technology

However, the industry has not provided a valve assembly the industry has not provided a valve or valve assembly that enables large gauge projectiles of more than 35 mm to be safely and launched from a light-weight launching system at gas pressures of 500-800 psi.

Images