Payload delivery system with forward folding stabilizer for cartridges

Abstract

This disclosure provides for payload delivery systems and cartridges and methods that incorporate the payload delivery systems. The payload delivery system can comprise a stabilizer having a longitudinally cut side wall defining a series of vanes that are folded forward in the pre-launched configuration. Other aspects combine a payload cup nested within the forward folding stabilizer. Still other aspects integrate the payload portion and the stabilizer portion into a single piece that constitutes a stabilized payload cup. The disclosed cartridges can be used to deliver payloads such as solid projectiles, shot of all sizes, powders, gels, liquids, and other payloads to exploit their specific function.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 530,116, filed Sep. 1, 2011, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This disclosure relates to cartridges for launching a payload and the cartridge components themselves, including cartridges and components for launching a payload comprising solid projectiles, liquid- or gel-containing projectiles, or powders.BACKGROUND[0003]Cartridge systems constitute extremely practical constructions and methods for deploying almost any payload or projectile downrange. Typical cartridge systems incorporate the desired payload, a propellant, and some priming composition all within a self-contained unit. While ammunition cartridges are prototypical of cartridge devices, cartridge systems have been used to launch chemical, pyrotechnic, marker, tracer, signaling, non-lethal, explosive, smoke, and other payloa...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent is about a payload delivery system that includes a cup-shaped stabilizer with vanes that fold forward to give it a stabilizing effect on other components in the cartridge. The stabilizer can be attached to a payload or a projectile container to provide high stability and drag, or it can be used as a high-drag component to launch other payloads such as powders, gels, or liquids. The system also includes a launch mechanism that causes the stabilizer to open and invert, creating high drag and stability during flight. The technical effects of this system include improved stability and drag for the payload, as well as efficient and reliable delivery of the payload during flight.

Problems solved by technology

These more complex payloads often require additional complex and expensive components beyond the nominal propellant, projectile, and primer for their effective use in cartridges.

Shotshell cartridges are also complex cartridge systems because shotshells require intricate components beyond those necessary in rifle or pistol rounds.

In all these cases, the expense and complexity of construction, tooling, and manufacture of these components and the cartridges themselves can be challenging.

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