Firearm locking system

Abstract

A firearm locking system (100) that can lock a trigger (30) by remote activation by an authorized user using a trigger lock (102) that can block the trigger (30) of a firearm (10) from being pulled sufficiently to fire the firearm (10). The trigger lock (102) can be advanced forward into the locked configuration and retracted into an unlocked configuration with the use of an actuator (110), such as a motor. Tamper-resistant features can be employed to prevent unauthorized users from disabling the firearm locking system (100). For example, when the trigger lock (102) blocks the trigger (30), the trigger lock (102) can also lock the upper receiver (12) from being removed preventing access to the firearm locking system (102) from the top of the firearm (10). The actuator (110) can be detachably connected to the trigger lock (102) such that when the grip (18) is removed, the actuator (110) disconnects from the trigger lock (102) causing the trigger lock (102) to enter a jammed configuration.

Description

Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.FIREARM LOCKING SYSTEM TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This invention relates to methods and systems for locking a firearm or otherwise rendering the firearm inoperable.BACKGROUND

[0002] Mass shootings are a major problem in the U.S. and around the world. Current proposals revolve around implementations of laws to restrict firearm ownership and use. The problem with implementing new laws is that those engaged in criminal activity, such as mass shootings, are not law abiding citizens. Systems such as that described in U.S. Patent No. 11,686,546, which is incorporated in its entirety here by this reference, can be an effective system to prevent or minimize the tragedies of a mass shooting; however, existing firearms would have to be modified to accommodate such as system. Law abiding users that have to modify their firearms in such a manner may be concerned that such modifications could affect the reliability of their firearm.

[0003] For the foregoing reasons there is a need for a system that reduces or prevents mass shootings, but can be easily retrofitted into existing firearms without compromising their reliability by minimizing the extent and number of modifications required to implement a tamper-resistant, trigger locking mechanism.SUMMARY

[0004] The present invention is directed to a firearm locking system that prevents a firearm from firing, and to firearms incorporating the firearm locking system. The firearm locking system uses wireless communications, such as a cell phone or computer, to allow anDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. authorized user of a firearm to control when the firearm can be fired or locked from firing. Remote activation of the firearm locking system causes a trigger lock to engage the trigger system of the firearm to prevent the trigger from being pulled. The trigger lock can engage the trigger system regardless of whether the safety of the firearm is turned on or off.

[0005] In some embodiments, the firearm locking system is also configured to be tamperproof to prevent unauthorized users of the firearm to open the firearm in an attempt to disable the firearm locking system.

[0006] In some embodiments, the upper receiver of any AR- 15 style rifle can have a receiver lock. The trigger lock can be configured to engage both the trigger and the receiver lock so that the trigger cannot be pulled and the upper receiver cannot be removed.

[0007] In some embodiments, the trigger lock can be configured to simultaneously lock the trigger system and components involved in the disassembly of the firearm, such as a rear takedown pin of an AR- 15 style rifle.

[0008] In some embodiments, the actuator that moves the trigger lock in the locked and unlocked configuration can be housed in the grip of the firearm in such a manner that when the actuator is removed, the actuator is disengaged from the trigger lock, and the trigger lock automatically enters the locked configuration.

[0009] In some embodiments, a steel plate can surround the handles to prevent unauthorized users from breaking into the lower receiver in an attempt to bypass the trigger lock.

[0010] Essentially, any attempt to tamper with the firearm locking system causes the firearm locking system to lock or requires the unauthorized user to disassemble so much of the firearm that the firearm is rendered inoperable.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 shows a partially exploded perspective view from the top rear of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0012] Figure 2 shows a rear view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 with the buttstock removed;

[0013] Figure 3 shows a side view of a cross-section taken along about line 3-3 in Figure 2 of an embodiment of the present invention with some components removed for clarity;

[0014] Figure 4 shows a close up of the side view designated as 4 in Figure 3 with the safety in the on configuration and the trigger lock in the unlocked configuration;

[0015] Figure 5 shows a close up of the side view designated as 4 in Figure 3 with the safety in the off configuration and the trigger lock in the locked configuration;

[0016] Figure 6 shows a close up of the side view designated as 4 in Figure 3 with the safety in the off configuration and the trigger lock in the jammed configuration;

[0017] Figure 7 shows a close up perspective view of an embodiment of a safety;

[0018] Figure 8 shows a close up perspective view of an embodiment of a trigger lock;

[0019] Figure 9 shows a close up perspective view of an embodiment of an actuator; and

[0020] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an upper receiver.

[0021] Figure 11 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the trigger lock.

[0022] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the rear takedown pin.

[0023] Figures 13A and 13B show perspective views of a partial internal view of an AR- 15 style rifle in the locked and unlocked configuration with the trigger lock and rear takedown pin shown in Figure 11.

[0024] Figure 14 shows a front view of an embodiment of the grip.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.

[0025] Figure 15 shows a rear elevation view of an embodiment of the firearm of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 16 shows a top perspective view of the firearm with portions of the firearm removed along about line 16-16 shown in Figure 15, to show the interior of the firearm with an embodiment of the trigger lock installed.

[0027] Figure 17 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the trigger lock mounted on a drop-in casing.

[0028] Figure 18 shows another perspective view perspective view of the embodiment of the trigger lock and drop-in casing shown in Figure 17.

[0029] Figure 19 shows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the firearm taken along about line 19-19 with the trigger lock installed.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of presently-preferred embodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present invention may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the invention in connection with the illustrated embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the firearm locking system 100 is described herein using an AR- 15 rifle as a model, but the concepts can be implemented in any firearm with some modifications.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.

[0031] In addition, directional terms are not meant to be limiting. Rather, directional terms are used as convenient nomenclature to efficiently describe the invention. In the present application, the directional terms will be based on the firearm being properly held and in firing position. By way of example only, front, forward, and like terms refer to the end of the firearm towards the barrel and muzzle. Back, rearward, behind, and like terms refer to the end of the firearm buttressed against the user, such as the buttstock of a rifle. Top, upward, above, and like terms refer to the top side of the firearm typically where the sights are located. Bottom, downward, below, and like terms refer to the portion of the firearm where the grips and trigger are located.

[0032] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, a firearm 10, such as an AR-15 style rifle, comprises an upper receiver 12 mounted on a lower receiver 14, a buttstock 16 mounted behind the upper and lower receivers 12, 14, a grip 18 mounted under the lower receiver 14, a trigger system 20 housed inside the lower receiver 14 with the trigger 30 descending therefrom, a magazine well 22 in front of the trigger system 20, and a barrel 24 projecting forwardly from the upper receiver 12. Typically, a safety 26 is used to prevent the trigger system 20 from being actuated.

[0033] With reference to Figures 3-5, the trigger system 20 comprises a trigger 30 descending from a base plate 32 housed inside the lower receiver 14, the trigger 30 projecting downwardly from the lower receiver 14. The base plate 32 of the trigger 30 can be operatively connected to a disconnector 33 and a spring-loaded hammer 34. The hammer 34 can have a cocked configuration and a released configuration, wherein the spring-loaded hammer 34 can be configured to enter the released configuration when the trigger 30 is pulled. Typically, the front end 35 of the base plate 32 catches a sear 37 of the hammer 34 when the hammer 34 is in the cocked position. When the trigger 30 is pulled, the base plateDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.32 teeters in which the back end 39 of the base plate 32 rises and the front end 35 of the base plate 32 lowers. When the front end 35 of the base plate 32 lowers, the front end 35 of the base plate 32 slides out of the sear 37 causing the spring-loaded hammer 34 to be released. The spring operatively connected to the hammer 34, causes the hammer 34 to propel forward striking the ammunition, which results in an explosion that causes a bullet to propel through the barrel 24. The explosion also causes the spring-loaded hammer 34 to return towards its cocked position allowing the disconnector 33 to temporarily catch the spring-loaded hammer 34. As the trigger 30 is released, the front end 35 of the base plate 32 teeters upward causing the disconnector 33 to release the hammer 34, and allowing the hammer 34 to be re-seated back in the sear 37, resulting in the spring-loaded hammer 34 to be in the cocked position again, ready for firing when the trigger 30 is pulled.

[0034] To prevent the trigger 30 from being pulled, the firearm 10 can have a safety 26. With reference to Figure 7, the safety 26 comprises a blocking cylinder 25 defining a longitudinal axis A. The blocking cylinder 25 can actually be a partial cylinder having a substantially flat longitudinal portion along a plane that is perpendicular to two opposing flat ends 202, 204 of the blocking cylinder 25 creating a longitudinal flat face 28 along the length of the blocking cylinder 25 that is perpendicular to the flat ends 202, 204. In other words, the blocking cylinder 25 comprises a first flat end 202, a second flat end 204 opposite the first flat end 202, and a curved face 27 on one portion of the blocking cylinder 25, and a flat face 28 on another portion of the blocking cylinder 25. As such, the flat face 28 is in between the first flat end 202 and the second flat end 204, and adjacent to the curved face 27, wherein the longitudinal axis A is parallel to the flat face 28 and perpendicular to the first flat end 202 and the second flat end 204. The blocking cylinder 25 is configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis A into a safety-on configuration, in which the curved face 27 is directedDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. towards the back end 39 of the base plate 32, and a safety -off configuration, in which the flat face 28 is directed towards the back end 39 creating a gap 210 between the flat face 28 and the back end 39 sufficient to allow the trigger 30 to be pulled.

[0035] As shown in Figure 4, when the safety 26 is on, the curved face 27 is directed towards the back end 39 of the base plate 32 sufficiently reducing the size of the gap 210 and blocking the back end 39 of the base plate 32 from rising sufficiently to cause release of the hammer 34. As shown in Figure 3, when the safety 26 is off, the longitudinal flat face 28 is directed towards the back end 39 of the base plate 32. Because the longitudinal flat face 28 is in essence a cut out of the curved face 27 the gap 210 is larger between the back end 39 of the base plate 32 and the longitudinal flat face 206. This gap 210 is sufficiently large that the back end 39 of the base plate 32 can rise enough to release the hammer 34.

[0036] In the present invention, the firearm locking system 100 can be mounted in the lower receiver 14 of an AR-15 style rifle behind the trigger system 20 to block actuation of the trigger system 20 regardless of whether the safety 26 is on or off. Preferably, actuation of the trigger system 20 is blocked by preventing a portion of the trigger 30, such as the back end 39 of the base plate 32, from rising.

[0037] The firearm locking system 100 uses a trigger lock 102 to block the actuation of the trigger system 20, wherein the trigger lock 102 can be actuated remotely using wireless signals, for example via a phone, tablet, computer, and the like. By being able to remotely actuate the firearm locking system 100, if an unauthorized user obtains a firearm 10 with the firearm locking system 100 installed, the firearm locking system 100 can be actuated from almost anywhere to prevent the firearm 10 from being fired. As such, countless lives can be saved with the implementation of the firearm locking system 100.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.

[0038] Figures 3-5 show a side view of an AR-15 style rifle 10 with portions removed for clarity to show how embodiments of the firearm locking system 100 functions. Figure 3 shows the locking system 100 disengaged in the unlocked configuration, with safety 26 in the off position in which the longitudinal flat face 28 of the safety 26 is now facing the back end 39 of the base plate 32 creating a gap 210 that allows the back end 39 of the base plate 32 to rise when the trigger 30 is pulled. This unlocked configuration allows the firearm 10 to be fired.

[0039] Figure 4 shows a close-up side view of the AR-15 style rifle with the locking system 100 disengaged in the unlocked configuration, but with the safety 26 in the on position. As such, when the trigger 30 is pulled, the back end 39 of the base plate 32 of the trigger 30 abuts against the curved face 27 of the safety 26 preventing the trigger 30 from being pulled sufficiently to release the cocked hammer 34.

[0040] Figure 5 shows the same side elevation view as Figure 4, but with the firearm locking system 100 engaged in the locked configuration with the safety 26 in the off position. As shown, the trigger lock 102 has advanced forward to occupy the gap 210 between the safety 26 and the back end 39 of the base plate 32 of the trigger system 20. As such, the back end 39 of the base plate 32 can no longer rise due to the obstruction by the trigger lock 102, and therefore, the trigger 30 cannot be pulled to disengage the hammer 34 even though the safety 26 is off.

[0041] Figure 6 shows the same side elevation view as Figure 4, but with the firearm locking system 100 in a jammed configuration described in more detail below. Essentially, the locking system 100 has advanced forward even more to release anti -tampering mechanisms to prevent the locking system 100 from returning to an unlocked configuration.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.

[0042] The firearm locking system 100 comprises a trigger lock 102 that is not only configured to advance forward into the locked configuration, but also to retract backward to the unlocked configuration. This movement can be controlled remotely using a phone, tablet, computer, and the like. Therefore, after the locking system 100 has been activated, it can be deactivated once it is determined that use of the firearm 10 will be lawful.

[0043] However, those with ill intentions may attempt to disable the firearm locking system 100 in an attempt to use the firearm 10 in an unauthorized manner before or after the locking system 100 has been activated. As such, the locking system 100 can further comprise one or more tamper-resistant systems to prevent unauthorized users from attempting to disable the firearm locking system 100.

[0044] For example, in some embodiments, the tamper-resistant system can comprise a mechanism configured to jam the trigger lock 102 in the locked configuration when attempts are made to tamper with the trigger lock 102. Specifically, attempts at disassembling or removing components of the firearm 10, such as the grip 18, can cause the trigger lock 102 to enter a permanently locked or jammed configuration meaning that the trigger lock 102 cannot be moved to the unlocked configuration remotely with a phone, tablet, computer and the like. When the trigger lock 102 enters the permanently locked or jammed configuration, the firearm 10 must be disassembled to reset the firearm locking system 100. Disassembly of the firearm 10 renders the firearm 10 useless.

[0045] In some embodiments, the tamper-resistant system may prevent the firearm 10 from being disassembled easily or in its customary manner. For example, an AR-15 can be disassembled by removing the upper receiver 12 from the lower receiver 14. In some embodiments, the tamper-resistant system can lock the upper receiver 12 to the lower receiver 14 to prevent removal of the upper receiver 12 from the lower receiver 14. For example,Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. the trigger lock 102, which is attached to the lower receiver 14, can engage a receiver lock 150 mounted on the upper receiver 12 when the trigger lock 102 is advanced forward. As such, in some embodiments, the trigger lock 102 is configured to lock the trigger 30 and lock the upper receiver 12 to the lower receiver 14 at the same time, in one action, when attempts are made to tamper with the firearm locking system 100.

[0046] By way of example only, Figure 8 shows a close-up perspective view of an embodiment of the trigger lock 102 that can carry out the functions described above. In the preferred embodiment, the trigger lock 102 comprises a base 104 and a first bar 106 operatively connected to the base 104 and configured to advance forward into a locked configuration in which the trigger 10 cannot be pulled, and to retract into an unlocked configuration in which the trigger 10 can be pulled. Preferably, the first bar 106 slides into the gap 210 between the back end 39 of the base plate 32 of the trigger system 20 and the safety 26. When inserted in between the base plate 32 and the safety 26, the base plate 32 cannot rise sufficiently to release the hammer 34.

[0047] To engage the trigger lock 102 into the locked configuration, the base 104 is advanced in the forward direction towards the trigger 30. To disengage the trigger lock 102 into the unlocked configuration, the base 104 is retracted backward towards the buttstock 16 to enlarge the gap 210 between the safety 26 and the base plate 32 so that the back end 39 of the base plate 32 can rise into the gap 210 when the trigger 30 is pulled.

[0048] In some embodiments, the safety 26 is modified as shown in Figure 7 so that the trigger lock 102 can enter the locked configuration even when the safety 26 is on. Specifically, when the safety 26 is on, the gap 210 is eliminated or reduced by the curved face 27 facing the back end 39 of the base plate 32. Thus, with a normal safety, the trigger lock 102 may not be able to enter the gap 210. Therefore, the safety 26 of the presentDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. invention can comprise a recess 29 on a portion of the curved surface 27 to maintain the gap 210 to receive the first bar 106 of the trigger lock 102 even when the safety 26 is on, without interfering with the ability of the curved face 27 to block the back end 39 of the base plate 32. As such, the first bar 106 of the trigger lock 102 can be configured to fit inside the recess 29 without interference from the curved face 27. Preferably, the recess 29 is centrally located between the first end 202 and the second end 204, thereby giving the blocking cylinder 25 a dumbbell-like shape in which the diameter of the first and second ends 202, 204 are larger than the middle portion due to the recess 29. Thus, the term cylinder used herein is not intended to be limiting to an exact cylindrical shape, but rather, also encompasses generally cylindrical shapes, even if not completely cylindrical, and partial cylinder shapes, including the shape shown in the figures attached hereto.

[0049] To move the trigger lock 102 in the forward and backward direction, the base 104 can be attached to an actuator 110 (see, Figures 3-5). By way of example only, Figure 9 shows an embodiment of an actuator 110. The actuator 110 can be any mechanism that creates linear motion. For example, the actuator 110 can comprise a motor, a solenoid, magnets, springs, and the like. In the preferred embodiment, the actuator 110 is a motor, such as the Cqinju motor having a linear screw 112. The actuator 110 can be operatively connected to the base 104 of the trigger lock 102 to move the trigger lock 102 in the forward and backward direction. Movement of the trigger lock 102 in the forward direction slides the first bar 106 into the gap 210 between the base plate 32 and the safety 26, and moving the trigger lock 102 in the rearward direction pulls the first bar 106 out from the gap 210 between the base plate 32 and the safety 26.

[0050] In some embodiments, the base 104 of the trigger lock 102 can be attached to the actuator 110 by a rod 120 and a holding pin 122. The rod 120 can extend rearwardly fromDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. the base 104 towards the actuator 110. The back end 125 of the rod 120 can have a hole 124. As shown in Figure 9, the actuator 110 can have a linear screw 112 mounted thereon and a holding pin 122 mounted or operatively connected to the linear screw 112. The holding pin 122 can be removably connected to the back end 125 of the rod 120 by being inserted into the hole 124 at the back end 125 of the rod 120 to allow for tamper resistance as described below; however, the actuator 110 can be connected to the trigger lock 102 in other ways, including permanent attachments. Therefore, actuation of the actuator 110 causes the linear screw 112 to turn in one direction or another, which causes the holding pin 122 to move linearly in the forward or backward direction along the linear screw 112. The holding pin 122 being operatively connected to the rod 120, therefore, causes the rod 120 and the trigger lock 102 to move into and out of the locked configuration.

[0051] The actuator 110 can be operatively connected to an electronic system, such as electrical circuitry, microchips, and the like contained in a housing 116. The electronic system can be operatively connected to a wireless receiver that receives wireless communications from a remote location. An authorized user can then send a signal to the electronic system to activate the actuator 110 causing the trigger lock 102 to advance forward into the locked configuration or retract backward into the unlocked configuration. In some embodiments, the actuator 110 is mounted on the top of the housing 116. In some embodiments, the actuator 110 can be mounted in the grip 18 or operatively connected to the grip 18. Electrical wires 117 for the actuator 110 emerge from an opening at the top of the housing 116. Having the actuator 110 and electrical wires 117 mounted at the top of the housing 116 reduces the ability that an unauthorized user would be able to access and tamper with the actuator 110 or electrical wires 117 when coming through the grip 18. In someDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. embodiments, the housing 116 can be secured to the grip 18 so tightly that when the grip 18 is removed, the actuator 110 is disengaged from the trigger lock 102.

[0052] A battery 118 can be operatively connected to the electronic system to power the electronics on the device. Preferably, the battery 118 can be connected to the actuator 110 using a quick connect system such as the Airnix heat shrink wire connectors electrical terminal kit. Additional features can be added to detect the amount of power remaining in the battery, including LED lights and alarms. To create a fail-safe system, the firearm locking system 100 can be configured to automatically enter the locked configuration when or just before the battery dies or some other predetermined battery charge level. For example, when the battery 118 is detected to have only about 1 percent to about 10 percent of power remaining, the firearm locking system 100 can automatically enter the locked configuration. This fail-safe system prevents an unauthorized user from simply waiting for the battery 118 to die before using the firearm 10. A charging port, as known in the art, can be provided to charge the battery 118 when not in use. This will increase the likelihood that the battery 118 is fully charged in the event of an emergency when the authorized user is in need of the firearm 10.

[0053] Aside from battery failure, as with any electronic device, the system can malfunction. Of particular concern is potential water damage. To protect the firearm locking system 100, the actuator 110 can be protected inside a compartment 111 with water barriers 40 placed at potential water or moisture entry points. The water barrier 40 can be waterproof or water-resistant material, such as resins, epoxies, sealants, gaskets, o-rings, and the like. Portions of the firearm having a higher potential for water entry can be lined with the water barrier 40. In some embodiments, the firearm locking system 100 can be protectedDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. from full submersion under water. In some embodiments, the firearm locking system 100 can be protected from splashes, rain, and other temporary water exposure.

[0054] To reduce tampering of the firearm locking system 100, tamper-resistant features may be employed. In some embodiments, attempting to remove the grip 18 to disable the electronic system or the actuator 110 can automatically jam the firearm locking system 100 in a permanently locked configuration (i.e. jammed) by having the actuator 110 detach from the trigger lock 102. In normal operation when the actuator 110 is connected to the trigger lock 102 via the rod 120, the actuator 110 allows the trigger lock 102 to temporarily enter the locked configuration as discussed above. When the actuator 110 is disconnected from the trigger lock 102, however, the trigger lock 102 is permanently in the locked configuration (jammed) requiring disassembly of the firearm 10 to fix the problem. In other words, normal function of the firearm locking system 100 cannot remove the trigger lock 102 from the jammed configuration and the firearm 10 would have to undergo further disassembly to reengage the actuator 110 with the trigger lock 102.

[0055] For example, as shown in Figure 6, when the actuator 110 is removed (in this example, when the grip 18 is removed), the holding pin 122 falls out from the rod 120. In other words, removal of the grip 18 from the firearm 10 releases the rod 120 from the holding pin 122. One or more springs 126a, 126b can be buttressed against the base 104 of the trigger lock 102 imposing a biasing force in the forward direction. As such, when the pin 122 is removed from the rod 120, the rod 120 is effectively disconnected from the actuator 110. Being disconnected from the actuator 110, the rod 120 is free to move in the forward and backward direction without restriction by the actuator 110. Because the springs 126a, 126b bias the trigger lock 102 in the forward direction, without the connection to the actuator 110, the trigger lock 102 moves in the forward direction. Due to the action of the springsDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.126a, 126b, the rod 120 is pushed deeper into the lower receiver 14. Specifically, the lower receiver 14 defines a channel 121 in which the rod 120 slides linearly. When the rod 120 is disconnected from the pin 122, the rod 120 disappears into the channel 121 making the rod 120 generally inaccessible from the grip 18 area. As such, it would be very difficult for an unauthorized user to be able to grasp the back end 125 of the rod 120 to pull the rod 120 in the backward direction. Other detachable systems can be used in which the connection between the actuator 110 and the trigger lock 102 is detachable. For example, various types of clamps, adhesives, magnets, clips, hooks, and the like can be used.

[0056] In some embodiments, another tamper-resistant feature can be to physically block the trigger lock 102 in the locked configuration rather than making the trigger lock 102 inaccessible. For example, a blocking peg 128 can be mounted on the lower receiver 14 behind the trigger lock 102 such that when the rod 120 is connected to the actuator 110, the blocking peg 128 is in a stowed configuration and the trigger lock 102 is free to move forward and backward as shown in Figures 3-5. However, when the trigger lock 102 moves too far forward, such as when the holding pin 122 is removed from the rod 120, then the blocking peg 128 is deployed into the pathway behind the trigger lock 102, thereby blocking the rearward movement of the trigger lock 102 as shown in Figure 6. As such, the blocking peg blocks the trigger lock 102 from returning to the unlocked configuration. Therefore, even if an unauthorized user is able to grasp the back end of the rod 120 from the grip area, the unauthorized user would not be able to slide the rod 120 in the backward direction due to the blocking peg 128 blocking the pathway.

[0057] By way of example only, the blocking peg 128 can be housed in a recess 130 in the lower receiver 14. The blocking peg 128 can be biased upwardly, for example, with a spring 132. A tab 134 can extend backwardly from the base 104 of the trigger lock 102Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. opposite the first bar 106. Under normal operating circumstances, the tab 134 rests on top of the recess 130 with the blocking peg 128 housed therein. As such, the tab 134 keeps the blocking peg 128 in the stowed configuration. As the trigger lock 102 moves back and forth during normal operation (Figures 3-5), the tab 134 is sufficiently large enough to continuously maintain pressure on the blocking peg 128. Only when the holding pin 122 is removed from the rod 120 does the tab 134 move sufficiently clear of the recess 130 that the blocking peg 128 would pop out (Figure 6) into a jammed configuration in which the blocking peg 128 is positioned in the horizontal linear path of the trigger lock 102 to prevent the trigger lock 102 from returning to the unlocked configuration. In some embodiments, a barrier above the blocking peg 128 can prevent the blocking peg 128 from moving passed the pathway of the tab 134 so as not to pop out of the recess 130. In some embodiments, the spring 132 may be long enough only to place the blocking peg 128 in the path of the tab 134, but no further. As such, the blocking peg 128 blocks the rearward travel of the tab 134, and therefore, the trigger lock 102. Other mechanisms can be used to prevent the trigger lock 102 from returning back to an unlocked configuration, such as a catch, hook, and the like that can block rearward movement of the trigger lock 102.

[0058] Aside from tampering through the grip 18, an unauthorized user may attempt to remove the upper receiver 12 from the lower receiver 14 to disable the firearm locking system 100 from the top. In some embodiments, to prevent unauthorized access to the firearm locking system 100 by removal of the upper receiver 12, the trigger lock 102 can be configured to lock the upper receiver 12 when the firearm locking system 100 is in the locked configuration. For example, the trigger lock 102 can have a second bar 140 that can catch a solid, sturdy component of the upper receiver 12 to prevent the upper receiver 12 from being removed from the lower receiver 14.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.

[0059] For example, in some embodiments, the upper receiver 12 can be configured with a receiver lock 150 as shown in Figure 10. The receiver lock 150 can be fixedly attached to the upper receiver 12 and descend towards the trigger lock 102. When the trigger lock 102 is in the unlocked configuration, the second bar 140 is disengaged from the receiver lock 150 as shown in Figure 4. When the trigger lock 102 is in the locked configuration, the second bar 140 is engaged with the receiver lock 150 as shown in Figure 5. Engagement of the second bar 140 with the receiver lock 150 prevents the upper receiver 12 from being lifted away from the lower receiver 14. By way of example only, the receiver lock 150 can be a sturdy bar with an opening 152, such as a recess or hole. The second bar 140 can be operatively connected to the top of the base 104 above the first bar 106. When in the locked configuration, the second bar 140 is inserted into the opening 152 of the receiver lock 150.

[0060] In some embodiments, as another tamper-resistant feature, the receiver lock 150 can be configured to prevent the safety 26 from being dislodged from the lower receiver 14. For example, the receiver lock 150 and the safety 26 can be configured such that a portion of the receiver lock can block lateral movement of the safety 26 without affecting rotational movement of the safety 26 about its longitudinal axis A. Typical safeties 26 comprise a switch 160 operatively connected to two mounting cylinders 162, 164 that are concentrically aligned but spaced apart axially (along the longitudinal axis A). The mounting cylinders 162, 164 allow the safety 26 to mount on to the frame 50 of the lower receiver 14 with the switch 160 presented on the outside of the lower receiver 14 accessible to the user, and the remainder of the safety 26 inside the lower receiver 14. The user can flip the switch 160 to turn the safety 26 on and off by causing either the curved face 27 of the blocking cylinder 25, or the flat face 28 of the blocking cylinder 25 to be directed towards the base plate 32 of the trigger 30. The blocking cylinder 25 of the present invention (if it was a complete cylinder withoutDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. the flat face) can be characterized as being coaxially aligned and residing in between the two mounting cylinders 162, 164 as shown in Figure 7. The diameter of the blocking cylinder 25 is smaller than the diameter of the mounting cylinders 162, 164. As a result, the mounting cylinders 162, 164 each form a lip 166, 168 where the mounting cylinders 162, 164 attach to the respective flat ends 202, 204 of the blocking cylinder 25. In other words, the blocking cylinder 25 is recessed radially inward relative to the mounting cylinders 162, 164. Therefore, the safety 26 of the present invention can comprise a double recess, the first recess 170 created moving from the mounting cylinders 162, 164 medially inwardly as the mounting cylinders 162, 164 step down to the blocking cylinder 25, and a second recess 29 defined at the central portion of the block cylinder 25 which creates the space into which the first bar 106 of the trigger lock 102 can be inserted when the safety 26 is in the on configuration.

[0061] The receiver lock 150 can have a lower portion 156 configured to be seated in the first recess 170. Therefore, the receiver lock 150 can be defined by a width W1 from one lateral side to the opposite lateral side of the receiver lock 150. The gap between the cylinder mounts 162, 164 can be defined by a width W2 as measured from the inner wall of the first mounting cylinder 162 (where the first mounting cylinder 162 is connected to the first end 202 of the blocking cylinder 25) to the inner wall of the second mounting cylinder 164 (wherein the second mounting cylinder 162 is connected to the second end 204 of the blocking cylinder 25). The width W1 of the lower portion 156 of the receiver lock 150 can be substantially the same as the width W2 of the cylinder mount gap. With this configuration, when the upper receiver 12 is mounted on the lower receiver 14, the lower portion 156 of the receiver lock 150 can be inserted into the recess 170 between the cylinder mounts 162, 164. When the lower portion 156 of the receiver lock 150 resides within the first recess 170 lateral movement of the safety 26 is blocked because lateral movement of the safety 26 causesDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. the mounting cylinders 162, 164 to abut against the lower portion 156 of the receiver lock 150. Therefore, an unauthorized user cannot tamper with the trigger lock by attempting to knock out the safety 26.

[0062] In some embodiments, the lower portion 156 of the receiver lock 150 can have a front curvature that is substantially similar to the radius of curvature of the blocking cylinder 25. This configuration allows the lower portion 156 of the receiver lock 150 to partially wrap around the blocking cylinder 25. In the example shown, the lower portion 156 of the receiver lock 150 wraps around about a quarter of the surface area of the blocking cylinder 25 (if the blocking cylinder 25 was complete), or a quarter turn around the blocking cylinder 25. This configuration increases the surface area of the receiver lock 150 that would abut against the mounting cylinders 162, 164 thereby strengthening the blocking capabilities of the receiver lock 150. This configuration also allows a rear portion 158 of the receiver lock 150 to descend directly above the first bar 106 with the trigger lock 102 in the locked configuration. As such, the receiver lock 150 can also serve as the blocker to prevent the trigger lock 102 from rising when the trigger 30 is pulled while the trigger lock 102 is in the locked configuration. Thus, when the trigger lock 102 is in the locked configuration, pulling the trigger 30 causes the back end 39 of the base plate 32 to abut against the first bar 106 causing the first bar 106 to rise. The first bar 106 then abuts against the blocking cylinder 25 and / or the rear portion 158 of the receiver lock 150 preventing the trigger 30 from being pulled sufficiently to fire the firearm 10.

[0063] In some embodiments, the interior of the lower receiver 14 can be lined with reinforcement plates 154 bilaterally arranged, adjacent to the trigger lock 102 and related components to prevent unauthorized users from drilling or cutting through the lower receiver 14 in an effort to disable the trigger lock 102 without removing the actuator 110 or the upperDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. receiver 12. The reinforcement plate 154 can be any strong, durable material that reduces the ability of an unauthorized user to break into the lower receiver 14. For example, the reinforcement plate 154 can be made of steel, carbon, iron, and the like.

[0064] In some embodiments, the second bar 140 can interfere with the rear takedown pin 36 so that the rear takedown pin 36 of the upper receiver 12 cannot be removed. For example, generally the rear takedown pin 36 is cylindrical in shape. Locking tabs 38 on the upper receiver 12 and the lower receiver 14 can overlap and the rear takedown pin 36 can be inserted therein to lock the upper receiver 12 to the lower receiver 14. To remove the upper receiver 12 from the lower receiver 14, the rear takedown pin 36 simply needs to be knocked out from the overlapping tabs 38, by pushing the rear takedown pin 36 along its longitudinal axis B. In some embodiments, the rear takedown pin 36 can be modified with a recess. For example, the rear takedown pin 36 can be in the shape of a dumbbell (similar to the safety 26) where its diameter is smaller in the middle portion than at the two opposing ends, thereby, defining an opening 230 or recess in the middle portion of the takedown pin 36. A rear bar 220 (similar in shape and characteristic to the first bar 140) can be positioned adjacent to the rear takedown pin 36 such then when the trigger lock 102 is in the locked configuration, the rear bar 220 slides into the opening 230 of the rear takedown pin 36. In this configuration, the rear bar 220 is similar to the second bar 140 except that the rear bar 220 projects rearwardly towards the takedown pin 36. This configuration prevents the rear takedown pin 36 from moving axially along its longitudinal axis B. As such, the rear takedown pin 36 cannot be dislodged and the upper receiver 12 cannot be removed.

[0065] In some embodiments, the tamper resistant mechanisms to prevent removal of the upper receiver 12 can be combined such that when the trigger lock 102 is advanced forward into the locked configuration, the second bar 140 (e.g. , the front portion) can catch theDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. receiver lock 150, and the rear bar 220) can catch the rear takedown pin 36. Other locks can be used to automatically and simultaneously lock the upper receiver 12 to the lower receiver 14 when the trigger lock 102 is engaged.

[0066] With reference to Figure 11, in some embodiments, the rear bar 220 can extend rearwardly from a top 222 of the base 104 in the direction opposite the first bar 106. The rear bar 220 can have a proximal end 224 connected to the top 222 of the base 104 of the trigger lock 102, and a distal end 226 opposite the proximal end 224. The distal end 226 can have a projection 228 configured to engage the rear takedown pin 36. As such, the length of the rear bar 220 as measured from the proximal end 224 to the distal end 226 is sufficiently long that when the trigger lock 102 is in the unlocked configuration, the projection 228 of the rear bar 220 does not engage the rear takedown pin 36, which allows the rear takedown pin to move laterally along its longitudinal axis B to release the upper receiver 12 from the lower receiver 14. Specifically, when the projection 228 is in the unlocked configuration, the projection 228 is positioned sufficiently rearwardly, behind the rear takedown pin 36 so as not to interfere with release of the rear takedown pin 36 along the longitudinal axis B of the rear takedown pin 36 as shown in Figure 13A. In the preferred embodiment, the projection 228 projects upwardly away from the first bar 106 or rod 120. As such, the projection 228 creates a hook in the direction of the rear takedown pin 36.

[0067] In the preferred embodiment, as shown in Figure 12, the rear takedown pin 36 can define an opening 230, such as a slit, notch, hole, recess, and the like, into which the projection 228 can be inserted when the trigger lock 102 is in the locked configuration. As such, the projection 228 of the trigger lock 102 can move into and out of the opening 230 for a locked or unlocked configuration, respectively.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.

[0068] When the trigger lock 102 moves into the locked configuration, the first bar 106 can block the trigger system 20 while simultaneously the rear bar 220 engages the rear takedown pin 36 to prevent the rear takedown pin 36 from sliding out of the upper and lower receivers 12, 14 as shown in Figure 13B. As such, the rear bar 220 functions to prevent tampering with the firearm locking system 100 by hindering the disassembly of the firearm 10 when the trigger lock 102 is engaged. In some embodiments, the trigger lock 102 can have a single rear bar 220 projecting rearwardly from the middle of the trigger lock 102 to enter into a middle recess. In some embodiments, the trigger lock 102 can have a pair of rear bars 220a, 220b on opposite sides of the trigger lock 102. For example, a pair of rear bars 220a, 220b can be bilaterally arranged on the base 104 of the trigger lock 102. In some embodiments, the trigger lock 102 can have one rear bar 202a or 202b on only one side of the trigger lock 102. Other variations can be contemplated from this disclosure. Depending on the configuration of the rear bar 220 of the trigger lock, the rear takedown pin 36 can have the proper corresponding opening(s) 230.

[0069] In some embodiments, the grip 18 may not be removable without first disassembling the firearm 10. For example, typically a grip 18 is attached to the firearm 10 via one or more fasteners 42, such as bolts or screws. The fastener 42 generally attaches two halves of a grip 18 together around a tang. In some instances in which the grip 18 is a single piece, the fastener 42 comes up from the bottom 44 of the grip 18 as shown in Figure 1, and screws into a threaded hole 46 that is formed by the frame 50 of the firearm 10.

[0070] In some embodiments, to make the grip 18 tamper resistant, the fastener 42 can be made inaccessible from the outside of the firearm 10. As such, in order to attach or remove the grip 18, the upper receiver 12 must first be removed from the lower receiver 14 as shown in Figures 13A and 13B. The top of the fastener 42 can then be accessed from theDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. inside of the lower receiver 14. Therefore, rather than having the entry 48 to the threaded hole 46 be on the bottom side 52 of the lower receiver 14, the entry 48 of the threaded hole 46 is accessible from the top side 54 of the lower receiver 14. The threaded hole 46 can have an exit 47 on the bottom side 52 of the frame 50 of the lower receiver 14 so as to attach to the grip 18. In the preferred embodiment the entry 48 of the threaded hole 46 resides in a recess on the lower receiver 14 so that the head of the fastener 42 can be flush with or below the floor 56 of the lower receiver 14. Having the fastener 42 buried in the floor 56 of the lower receiver 14 eliminates the fastener 42 interfering with the trigger lock 42.

[0071] In the preferred embodiment, the grip 18 comprises the grip base 60 located at the bottom portion of the grip 18, a front face 62 located at the front portion of the grip 18 where the fingers rest or wrap around, a backstrap 64 located at the rear portion of the grip 18 that would contact the palm and web of the hand, the grip tang 66 located at the top portion of the grip 18 to connect the grip 18 to the lower receiver 14, and the grip panels 68 located on the left and right side surfaces of the grip 18. The grip 18 is generally hollow, defining a main cavity 70. The battery 118 and the housing 116 for the electronic system can be housed in the main cavity 70. In the preferred embodiment, the grip can comprise a wireless charging receiver pad 72 for wirelessly charging the battery 118 in the grip 18.

[0072] The grip base 60 can have an auxiliary cavity 74 above the main cavity 70 adjacent to the top of the grip tang 66. The auxiliary cavity 74 is configured to house the actuator 110 and the holding pin base 123. The top wall 76 of the grip 18 can define an opening 78 through which the holding pin 122 can project to connect with the trigger lock 102. The opening 78 at the top wall 76 of the grip 18 can be large enough to allow the holding pin 122 to move forward and backward. Although the holding pin 122 can project through the opening 78 in the top wall 76 of the grip 18, the holding pin base 123 and the actuator areDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. blocked by the top wall 76 to prevent the holding pin base 123 and the actuator 110 from being pulled out of the grip 18. The grip 18 can further comprise a support 80 to secure the actuator 110 adjacent the top wall 76. For example, the support 80 can be a ledge as shown in Figure 13A and 13B; however, other supporting structures can be used, such as hooks and clips and other fasteners, framing, and the like with a path 82 through which the wiring can descend to connect to the electrical components, such as the circuit board.

[0073] With reference to Figure 14, the grip tang 66 can define a slot 82 into which a portion of the frame 50 of the lower receiver 14 behind the trigger guard can be inserted to stabilize the grip 18. The slot 82 defines a threaded hole 84 into which the fastener 42 can be inserted to lock the grip 18 to the lower receiver 14 from the inside to reduce the chances of tampering.

[0074] Any one or more of these tamper-resistant features, alone or in any combination, can be used in the present invention.

[0075] In the preferred embodiment, to minimize modification of the upper receiver, the trigger lock 102 with the rear bar 220 and modified takedown pin 36 with the recess 230 to receive the rear bar 220 is used to minimize any modification to the upper receiver 12 of the firearm 10.

[0076] With reference to Figures 16-19, in the preferred embodiment, to minimize any modification to the lower receiver 14, the actuator 110 can be packaged in a drop-in casing 240, and the trigger lock 102 can be mounted to the drop-in casing 240. Because the trigger lock 102 is mounted on the drop-in casing 240, the trigger lock 102 does not require the rod 120. Instead, the linear screw 112 of the actuator 110 can be connected directly to the trigger lock 102. For example, the drop-in casing 240 can be a box-shape having a front face 242, a back face 244 opposite the front face 242, a top face 246 adjacent to the front face 242 andDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. the back face 244, and bottom face 248 opposite the top face 246 and adjacent to the front face 242 and the back face 244, a first side face 250 adjacent to the front face 242, back face 244, top face 246, and bottom face 248, and a second side face 252 opposite the first side face 250 and adjacent to the front face 242, back face 244, top face 246, and bottom face 248.

[0077] The front face 242 of the casing 240 can have an opening 254 through which the linear screw 112 exits and attaches to the trigger lock 102. Projecting forwardly from the front face 242 can be a stabilizer 256. The stabilizer 256 can project perpendicularly to the front face 242 parallel to the linear screw 112. At the forward end 258 of the stabilizer 256, the stabilizer 256 can bend perpendicularly towards the linear screw 112 so that the terminal end 260 of the linear screw 112 can be mounted on the forward end 258 of the stabilizer 256. Having the linear screw 112 mounted to the stabilizer 256 facilitates stability of the trigger lock 102, particularly with the extent of recoil experienced in firearms.

[0078] To further stabilize the trigger lock 102, additional stabilizers 262 can be used to keep the trigger lock 102 in alignment with the casing 240 and sustain the recoil power experienced by the firearm. The additional stabilizer 262 can be more stabilizer bars projecting the case 240 onto which the trigger lock 102 can be moveably mounted. In some embodiments, the additional stabilizer 262 can be a track defined or mounted on the casing upon which the trigger lock 102 can slide forward and backward. The trigger lock 102 can comprise mounting guides 264 upon which the stabilizers 256, 262 can be mounted to allow the trigger lock 102 to move linearly in a horizontal direction while withstanding the force of the recoil when the firearm 10 is fired. Mounting guides 264 can be holes, bearings, sliders, blocks, carriages, rollers, and the like, to interact with the stabilizers 256, 262 for facilitating stable, linear motion of the trigger lock.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.

[0079] The casing 240 can have a plurality of holes to facilitate the drop-in method for installation. For example, the top face 246 and bottom face 248 can have concentrically aligned holes 270a, 270b to allow the casing 240 to be fastened to the frame 50 of the firearm (and specifically, to the lower receiver 14). As such, the casing 240 can be dropped into the lower receiver, and a fastener can be used to fasten the casing 240 to the lower receiver 14 from the top of the firearm. As such, a minor modification to the lower receiver 14 would be to tap a hole into the lower receiver to receive the fastener that secures the casing 240 to the lower receiver 14.

[0080] The bottom face 248 of the casing 240 can have an exit hole 272 through which electrical wires 117 from the actuator 110 can exit from the casing 240 to be connected to the printed circuit board and / or batteries 118. In the preferred embodiment, the casing 240 is a two-piece housing so that the casing 240 can be opened to install the actuator 110 inside the casing 240. As such, additional screw holes 274 can be provided to allow the two pieces of the casing 240 to be fastened together after the actuator 110 is placed inside.

[0081] In use, the authorized user can download an app that controls the firearm locking system 100. The app can be configured with authentication steps to make sure the authorized user is the one opening the app. If an unauthorized user acquires the firearm, as soon as the authorized user becomes aware that his or her firearm is in the hands of an unauthorized user, the authorized user can open the app and send a lock signal. The lock signal can be sent via any form of wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi™ technology, Bluetooth® technology, near field communication, cellular technology, radio waves, RFID, and the like. Additional technology, such as the global positioning system can be used to track the location of the firearm.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.

[0082] Actuation of the firearm locking system 100 from the app sends a wireless signal to the firearm locking system 100, which activates the firearm locking system 100. The actuator 110 is turned on and drives the trigger lock 102 in the forward direction. Regardless of whether the safety 26 is on or off, the trigger lock 102 can lock the trigger 30, for example, by inserting the first bar 106 of the trigger lock 102 into whatever gap 210 exists between the base plate 32 of the trigger system 20 and the safety 26. As such, the trigger 30 cannot be pulled.

[0083] In some embodiments, to prevent tampering with the firearm locking system 100, forward movement of the trigger lock 102 also locks the upper receiver 12 to the lower receiver 14 automatically and simultaneously when the trigger lock 102 locks the trigger 30. For example, activation of the trigger lock 102 can cause a second bar 140 on the trigger lock 102 to advance forward and engage a receiver lock 150 mounted on the upper receiver 12. The receiver lock 150, which is fixed to the upper receiver 12, prevents a user from removing the upper receiver 12 from the lower receiver 14. In some embodiments, forward movement of the trigger lock 102 can cause a rear bar 220 of the trigger lock 102 to enter an opening 230 created in the rear takedown pin 36 preventing the rear takedown pin 36 from being removed. The rear bar 220 can be used together or independently for deterring tampering with the trigger lock 102.

[0084] In some embodiments, if the unauthorized user attempts to remove the grip 18 to access and disable the firearm locking system 100, removal of the grip 18 disengages the actuator 110 from the trigger lock 102. Disengagement of the trigger lock 102 from the actuator 110 causes the trigger lock 102 to enter a permanently locked configuration or a jammed configuration, for example, by allowing springs 126a, 126b biased against the trigger lock 102 to advance the trigger lock 102 forward even further into the lower receiver 14Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. rendering the trigger lock 102 inaccessible. In other words, the trigger lock 102 would be disabled in the locked configuration.

[0085] In some embodiments, the trigger lock 102 can be disabled in the locked configuration by blocking the return path of the trigger lock, for example, by a blocking pin 128. In normal operation when the trigger lock 102 has not been tampered with, the blocking pin 128 is stowed under a tab 134 of the trigger lock 102, and kept in a stowed configuration during normal operation of the firearm locking system 100 as the tab 134 remains above the blocking pin 128 during normal operation. However, when the actuator 110 is disengaged from the trigger lock 102, the additional forward advancement of the trigger lock 102 causes the tab 134 to expose the blocking pin 128, which then pops up into the path of the tab 134 preventing the tab 134, and therefore, the trigger lock 102 from moving in the rearward direction, which is required to unlock the trigger lock 102. As such, even if an unauthorized user were to access the trigger lock 102, the unauthorized user would not be able to move the trigger lock 102 backwards due to the blocking action of the blocking pin 128. Overcoming each of these tamper-resistant features would essentially render the firearm useless.

[0086] In some embodiments, to reduce the amount of modifications to the firearm 10, the grip 18 is fastened to the lower receiver 14 from inside the lower receiver 14. As such, fasteners for securing the grip 18 to the lower receiver 14 are inserted from the lower receiver 14 side and into the grip. When the upper receiver 12 is attached to the lower receiver, all fasteners from removing the grip 18 from the lower receiver 14 is hidden inside the firearm, and therefore, inaccessible. Using this style of grip 18 with the blocking of the rear takedown pin 36 not only reduces tampering with the locking system 100, but also minimizesDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. modifications to the firearm 10. Using the drop-in style casing 240 also minimizes modifications to the firearm 10 while improving installation efficiency.

[0087] In some embodiments, rather than having the authorized user send a lock signal to the firearm locking system 100, a lock signal can be sent automatically when the firearm 10 with the firearm locking system 100 enters a designated zone, such as schools, government buildings, and other public or private locations designated as a gun-free zone (or safe-gun zone). For example, the firearm locking system 100 can be configured with a distinct IP address for each firearm. A monitoring system can be established to store those IP addresses in a server. The monitoring system would provide the designated gun-free zones with a first communication device, such as a transmitter or receiver that sends or receives information regarding the IP addresses. The firearm locking system 100 comprises a second communication device that can communicate with the first communication device. Thus, the IP address of the firearm entering a gun-free zone can be transmitted from the communication device on the firearm 10 to the communication device located in the gun- free zone. If the IP address of the firearm 10 matches an IP address in the database, a lock signal is automatically sent to the firearm locking system 100 to lock the firearm 10 and prevent the firearm from being fired. This feature may not apply to military and law enforcement agencies, and these agencies would own and keep their IP addresses. Other forms of automatic locking systems can be employed in which a firearm 10 entering a restricted zone is automatically locked using the firearm locking system 100 described herein, including the use of GPS, Wi-Fi™ technology, Bluetooth® technology, near field communication, cellular technology, radio waves, RFID, and the like. By way of example only, any of these technologies can be used to create in a geofencing application where a virtual boundary can be defined around a point or location of interest. An app can be developed where a user can define the scope andDocket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al. bounds of the geo fencing. For example, the user can free draw the boundary on a map or use geometric shapes to draw the boundaries. When a firearm 10 installed with the present firearm locking system 100 enters the boundary, the locking system 100 can be actuated to lock the firearm. Alerts and notifications can be sent to the user or any other authorized person designated by the user.

[0088] The foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of the invention not be limited by this detailed description, but by the claims and the equivalents to the claims appended hereto.

Claims

Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A firearm locking system (100) configured to be housed inside a firearm (10), the firearm locking system (100) comprising a trigger lock (102) that is configured to move in a forward direction to a locked configuration and a rearward direction to an unlocked configuration, the trigger lock (102) comprising: a) a base (104); b) a first bar (106) projecting from the base (104) in the forward direction, the first bar (106) insertable into a gap (210) between a portion of a trigger (30) and a cylinder (25) of a safety (26) of the firearm (10) when the safety (26) of the firearm (10) is in a safety -off configuration; and c) a rear bar (220a) operatively connected to the base (104) and extending in the rearward direction opposite the forward direction and positioned above the first bar (106).

2. The firearm locking system of claim 1, wherein the rear bar (220a) comprises: a) a proximal end (224) connected to a top (222) of the base (104) of the trigger lock (102); and b) a distal end (226) opposite the proximal end (224), the distal end (226) having a projection (228) configured to engage a rear takedown pin (36) of the firearm (10) when the trigger lock (102) is in the locked configuration.

3. The firearm locking system of claim 2, wherein the projection (228) of the rear bar (220a) projects upwardly away from the rod (120).

4. The firearm locking system of claim 3, wherein the rear takedown pin (36) defines an opening (230) configured to receive the projection (228) in the locked configuration.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.

5. The firearm locking system of claim 4, wherein the rear bar (220a) has a length as measured from the proximal end (224) to the distal end (226) that is sufficiently long that when the trigger lock (102) is in the unlocked configuration, the projection (228) of the rear bar (220a) does not engage the rear takedown pin (36), and when the trigger lock (102) moves into the locked configuration, the first bar (106) inserts into the gap (210) simultaneously when the first rear bar (220a) engages the rear takedown pin (36).

6. The firearm locking system of claim 5, wherein the trigger lock 102 comprises a second rear bar (220b) bilaterally arranged on the base (104) with the first rear bar (220a).

7. The firearm locking system of claim 6, wherein the rear takedown pin (36) comprises bilaterally arranged slits configured to receive the rear bar (220a) and the second rear bar (220b) when the trigger lock (102) is in the locked configuration.

8. The firearm locking system of claim 5, further comprising a spring (126a, 126b) to bias the trigger lock (102) in the forward direction.

9. The firearm locking system of claim 1, further comprising an actuator (110) operatively connected to the trigger lock (102) to move the trigger lock (102) in a forward and rearward direction, and a casing (240) to house the actuator (110) and fasten the actuator (110) to a lower receiver (14) of the firearm (10), wherein the trigger lock (102) is mounted on the casing (240).

10. The firearm locking system of claim 9, wherein actuator (110) comprises a linear screw (112) projecting from the casing (240) and attached to the trigger lock (102).

11. The firearm locking system of claim 10, wherein the casing 240 comprises a stabilizer (256) upon which the trigger lock (102) is mounted.

12. A firearm (10) comprising the firearm locking system (100) of claims 1-11.Docket No. 25-93003Dadisho, et al.

13. The firearm (10) of claim 12, wherein a grip (18) of the firearm (10) is secured to a lower receiver (14) of the firearm (10) by a fastener (42) inserted through the lower receiver (14) into the grip to hide the fastener (42) inside the grip (18) and the lower receiver (14), whereby the fastener (42) is inaccessible from outside the firearm (10).

14. The firearm locking system of claim 13, wherein the grip further comprises a wireless charging receiver pad (72) for wirelessly charging a battery in the grip (18).

15. A method of configuring a firearm (10) with the firearm locking system (100) of claim 1, comprising: a) inserting the firearm locking system (100) into the lower of the firearm (10); b) inserting a casing (240) containing an actuator (110) for moving the trigger lock (102) into a lower receiver (14) of the firearm (10); c) securing the casing (240) to the lower receiver (14); and d) fastening the grip (18) to the lower by inserting a fastener (42) through the lower receiver (14) into the grip (18).

16. The method of claim 15, wherein when the casing (240) is fastened to the lower receiver (14), the rear bar (220a) is positioned behind a rear takedown pin (36) of the firearm (10).

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