High performance short-range projectile launcher with storage cylinder

Abstract

A toy projectile launcher is disclosed, comprising a projectile drum, a loading slider, and a housing. The projectile drum includes a projectile retainer adapted to hold a projectile, such as a foam dart. The loading slider is movable forward and backward. The housing houses a launch tube and an air piston assembly. When the loading slider moves backward, the air piston cylinder moves backward, and the launch tube moves forward away from a first projectile retainer among a plurality of projectile retainers to facilitate loading a projectile into the projectile retainer. When the loading slider moves forward, an air nozzle forms an airtight seal between the air piston cylinder and the projectile retainer, while the launch tube moves backward to form an airtight seal between the projectile retainer and the launch tube.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 117,510, entitled “High-Performance Short-Range Projectile Launcher with Storage Drum,” filed November 24, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to a toy projectile launcher, such as a toy pistol or a long gun, for launching toy projectiles, such as foam bullets, darts, balls, etc., and has a simplified structure and improved performance. Background Technology

[0003] Traditional toy projectile launchers utilize various forms of rifles, pistols, blasters, machine guns, etc., to fire toy projectiles such as foam balls and darts. These toy launchers vary in size, power, and storage capacity. More specifically, toy launchers for foam projectiles, bullets (or "darts"), balls, etc., have become ubiquitous. A standard product for foam bullets is already branded under... Sold off-the-shelf, these projectiles feature rubber ends and a foam body approximately 71.5 mm in length. Various types of rifles and machine guns are available on the market for firing these foam projectiles.

[0004] The caps of toy darts are typically made of a material different from foam, which allows the dart to be launched from the launcher toward a target person or object and / or to be propelled a suitable distance and / or to be propelled at a relatively fast speed.

[0005] Traditional dart guns have long been sold to pre-teens for everyday play. More recently, with the rise of special event war games (such as paintball and laser tag), higher-powered launchers have been developed for enthusiasts of these activities using foam darts.

[0006] For example, launchers with metal tubes instead of plastic tubes have been used to increase launch speed. The dimensions of such launchers and darts are typically designed with a very small gap between the inner diameter of the launcher tube and the outer diameter of the dart to provide improved launch speed and accuracy.

[0007] The launching force of the aforementioned metal tube launcher needs further improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0008] To address the aforementioned needs, this disclosure generally relates to an improved toy launcher for launching high-performance foam darts. According to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, one or more sealing mechanisms are provided to improve the hermetic seal from the air piston mechanism to the launch tube of the toy projectile launcher. Advantageously, a highly efficient and high-performance launcher can be achieved, providing high-speed and accurate projectile launch.

[0009] Specifically, this disclosure relates to a simple toy launcher for an improved integrated launcher having a two-step loading / loading mechanism and a firing mechanism, which has an improved hermetic seal between multiple elements of the launcher to achieve high launch force for a compact projectile.

[0010] According to an exemplary embodiment, the toy launcher includes a projectile retainer, a launch tube, an air piston assembly, and a chamber slide, wherein at least the projectile retainer and the air piston assembly are coupled to the chamber slide.

[0011] According to an exemplary embodiment, the air piston assembly includes an air piston cylinder, a plunger element, and a compression spring.

[0012] In one embodiment, the toy launcher includes a coupling mechanism between the chamber slide and the air piston cylinder.

[0013] In one embodiment, when the upper slide is moved to the rearward position, the air piston cylinder can be moved to the rearward position.

[0014] In one embodiment, when the loading slider moves to the rearward position, the front of the air piston cylinder pushes the plunger element to compress the compression spring against the rear wall of the toy launcher.

[0015] In one embodiment, the launch tube is coupled to a loading slider, wherein when the loading slider moves to the rearward position, the launch tube is moved forward away from the front of the projectile holder.

[0016] In one embodiment, the toy launcher also includes a launch tube extension assembly connected to the chamber slide, wherein when the chamber slide is moved to the rearward position, the launch tube extension assembly is moved forward away from the front of the projectile holder.

[0017] In one embodiment, the projectile holder includes a projectile propulsion mechanism for propelling the next loaded projectile in the projectile holder to a loaded position in front of the air piston cylinder.

[0018] In one embodiment, when the loading slider moves from the rearward position to the forward position, the plunger element and the air piston cylinder form an internal air chamber.

[0019] In one embodiment, the front portion of the air piston cylinder includes an air nozzle, wherein when the loading slider moves from a rearward position to a forward position, the air nozzle moves forward to form an airtight seal between the air piston cylinder and the rear portion of the projectile retainer.

[0020] In one embodiment, the launch tube is coupled to a loading slider, wherein when the loading slider moves from a rearward position to a forward position, the launch tube moves rearward toward the projectile holder to form an airtight seal between the rear of the launch tube and the front of the projectile holder.

[0021] In one embodiment, the toy launcher further includes a launch tube extension assembly coupled to a chamber slider, wherein when the chamber slider moves from a rearward position to a forward position, the launch tube extension assembly moves rearward toward the projectile holder to form an airtight connection between the front of the projectile holder and the rear of the launch tube.

[0022] In some embodiments, when the latch assembly between the plunger element and the trigger assembly is released, the plunger element is pushed forward by a compression spring to expel air from the internal air chamber through an air nozzle located behind the loaded projectile in the firing position and positioned in front of the air piston cylinder.

[0023] In one embodiment, in the firing position, the air nozzle at the front end of the air piston cylinder is adjacent to the projectile.

[0024] In one embodiment, the toy projectile launcher includes a projectile drum comprising multiple projectile holders, each projectile holder configured to receive a projectile; a loading slide adapted for forward and rearward movement; and a housing containing: a launch tube; an air piston assembly including an air piston cylinder having an air nozzle disposed at its front, a plunger element, and a compression spring; wherein the projectile drum, launch tube, and air piston assembly are all coupled to the loading slide; wherein, when the loading slide moves rearward from a forward position to a rearward position: the air piston cylinder moves rearward and pushes the plunger element to compress the compression spring against the rear wall of the housing, while the launch tube moves forward away from the front of the first projectile holder among the multiple projectile holders; wherein, when the loading slide moves forward from a rearward position to a forward position: the air nozzle moves forward, forming an airtight seal between the air piston cylinder and the rear of the first projectile holder; and the launch tube moves rearward toward the front of the first projectile holder to form an airtight seal between the front of the first projectile holder and the rear of the launch tube.

[0025] In one embodiment, the air piston assembly is connected to the upper slide via a coupling between the air piston cylinder and the upper slide.

[0026] In one embodiment, a tubular retainer is fixed to and surrounds at least a portion of the launch tube, wherein the launch tube is moved when a reciprocating frame coupled to the loading slide resists sliding of a lever coupled to the tubular retainer.

[0027] In one embodiment, the projectile drum includes a projectile propulsion mechanism for propelling the next projectile, loaded in one of a plurality of projectile holders housed in the projectile drum, to a firing position in front of the air piston cylinder.

[0028] In one embodiment, when the loading slider moves from the rearward position to the forward position, the plunger element and the air piston cylinder form an internal air chamber.

[0029] In one embodiment, the toy projectile launcher further includes a locking assembly connected between the plunger element and the trigger assembly, wherein the trigger assembly is adapted to be pulled back by a user of the toy projectile launcher.

[0030] In one embodiment, when the trigger assembly is pulled back, the latch assembly between the plunger element and the trigger assembly is released, and the plunger element is pushed forward by a compression spring to expel air from the internal air chamber through an air nozzle located behind the loaded projectile in the firing position and positioned in front of the air piston cylinder.

[0031] In one embodiment, when the loaded projectile is in the firing position, the air nozzle located at the front of the pneumatic piston cylinder is loaded with the projectile.

[0032] In one embodiment, an airtight seal is formed between the plunger element and the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first projectile retainer held in the cartridge drum has a front opening, a central body portion, a rear end ring, and a rear opening, wherein the rear opening has a larger cross-sectional diameter than the body portion to accommodate an air nozzle, and the rear opening and the air nozzle form an airtight seal from the air piston cylinder to the rear end of the projectile loaded in the first projectile retainer.

[0034] In one embodiment, a first O-ring is attached to the outer circumference of the air nozzle, wherein the first O-ring forms an airtight seal with the inner circumference of the rear opening of the first projectile holder.

[0035] In one embodiment, the front opening of the first projectile retainer has a larger cross-sectional diameter than the central body portion used to accommodate the launch tube, and the front opening and the launch tube form an airtight seal from the central body portion to the launch tube.

[0036] In one embodiment, a second O-ring is attached to the rear end of the launch tube, wherein the second O-ring and the front opening of the projectile retainer form an airtight seal between the launch tube and the central body portion of the projectile retainer.

[0037] In one embodiment, a third O-ring is attached to the outer rear portion of the launch tube sealing extension assembly, and the third O-ring forms an airtight seal between the launch tube and the first projectile retainer.

[0038] In this embodiment, the projectile is a foam dart.

[0039] In one embodiment, the toy projectile launcher includes a projectile drum comprising multiple projectile holders, each projectile holder adapted to receive a projectile; a loading slide adapted to move forward and backward; and a housing containing: a fixed launch tube; a slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly mounted on the rear end of the fixed launch tube; and an air piston assembly including an air piston cylinder having an air nozzle disposed at its front, a plunger element, and a compression spring; wherein the projectile drum, the slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly, and the air piston assembly are all connected to the loading slide; wherein, when the loading slide moves backward from a forward position... When the position is moved rearward: the air piston cylinder moves rearward and pushes the plunger element to compress the compression spring against the rear wall of the housing, while the slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly moves forward away from the front of the first projectile holder among the plurality of projectile holders; wherein, when the loading slide moves from the rearward position to the forward position: the air nozzle moves forward to form an airtight seal between the air piston cylinder and the rear of the first projectile holder; and the slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly moves rearward toward the front of the first projectile holder to form an airtight seal between the front of the first projectile holder and the rear of the fixed launch tube.

[0040] In one embodiment, the first projectile retainer held in the projectile drum has a front opening, a central body portion, a rear end ring, and a rear opening, wherein the rear opening has a larger cross-sectional diameter than the body portion to accommodate an air nozzle, and the rear opening and the air nozzle form an airtight seal from the air piston cylinder to the rear end of the projectile loaded in the first projectile retainer.

[0041] In one embodiment, a first O-ring is attached to the outer circumference of the air nozzle, wherein the first O-ring forms an airtight seal with the inner circumference of the rear opening of the first projectile holder, and the front opening of the first projectile holder is adapted to engage a slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly, the front opening and the slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly forming an airtight seal from the central body portion to the fixed launch tube.

[0042] In one embodiment, a second O-ring is attached to the rear end of the fixed launch tube, and a third O-ring is attached to the rear end of the slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly. The second and third O-rings form an airtight seal between the fixed launch tube and the first projectile holder. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional side view of a key component of a toy projectile launcher according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 2A This is based on exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The image shows a front view of the feeding drum.

[0046] Figure 2B This is based on exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2A A side view illustration of a cross-section of a dart-holding chamber of a drum, as shown.

[0047] Figure 3A It is based on exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 1 A schematic partial cross-sectional side view of a toy projectile launcher, with its loading slider or handle in the rear-loading and chambering (loading) position.

[0048] Figure 3B and 3C This illustrates exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 1 and 3A Enlarged cross-sectional side view illustration of the details of the launch tube moving assembly in the toy launcher shown.

[0049] Figure 4 It is based on exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 3A A schematic partial cross-sectional side view of a toy projectile launcher, in which the loading slider or handle is returning to the forward firing position.

[0050] Figure 5 It is based on exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 4 A schematic partial cross-sectional side view of a toy projectile launcher that fires foam darts after the trigger is pulled.

[0051] Figure 6A and 6B This is an enlarged cross-sectional side view illustration showing details of a launch tube sealing extension assembly in a toy launcher according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0052] This disclosure generally relates to an improved toy launcher having components for sealing the launch tube to improve the air pressure launching force. To achieve this objective, according to an exemplary embodiment, the toy launcher incorporates an internal sealing assembly for improving the air passage seal between the air piston assembly and the launch tube.

[0053] Figure 1This is a schematic partial cross-sectional side view of key components of a toy projectile launcher according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For clarity and simplicity in depicting the key components and mechanisms of the toy projectile launcher 100, portions not essential for understanding the scope and spirit of the present disclosure are not shown. Those skilled in the art will readily understand the various support elements required to accommodate and support the illustrated components, including those facilitating the insertion and removal of the drum 105 from the launcher 100, with a variety of design options that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a toy projectile launcher 100 in the unloaded position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 As shown, the projectile launcher 100 is shaped similarly to a Thompson submachine gun (or "Tom gun"). In embodiments, the launcher 100 may have various other shapes and arrangements without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, as detailed below. Figure 1 As shown, a reciprocating air piston assembly, consisting of a cylinder 101, a plunger element 102, and a front air nozzle 103, is located above a handle 104 and within the housing 110 of a projectile launcher 100, situated behind a projectile holding drum 105. According to an exemplary embodiment, the cylinder 101 of the air piston assembly is generally cylindrical or elliptical, and the plunger element 102 is biased against the rear wall 107 of the rear portion of the launcher housing 110 by a compression spring 115. The plunger element 102 has dimensions and shape corresponding to the inner circumference of the cylinder 101 to form an airtight seal with the inner surface of the cylinder 101. According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the plunger element 102 includes a resilient O-ring 112 (made of an elastic material, such as a polymer) to form an improved seal. Figure 1 As shown, the cylinder 101 is connected to the chambered slide (front handle) 117 via a reciprocating frame 118, which, together with the chambered slide 117, is adapted to a track (not shown) incorporated into the housing 110 of the launcher 100. As will be described in further detail below, the reciprocating frame 118 moves back and forth as the chambered slide 117 slides back and forth in a manner similar to that of a pump-action shotgun, which in turn fires the air piston assembly as it supplies the launcher with foam dart rounds for firing.

[0055] like Figure 1As shown, a tension spring 120 is coupled to a drum advance block / plate 122, which includes a hook-shaped element 123 for engaging a corresponding notch (not shown) on the drum 105. As will be described in further detail below, the drum 105, which receives projectiles—such as foam darts / bullets—is advanced by the block 122, such that the next projectile will be delivered into the firing position. Accordingly, a spring-loaded stop block 125 is coupled to the top of the housing 110 to hold the drum 105 in the aligned position as it is advanced via the block 122 and the hook-shaped element 123.

[0056] In one embodiment, the drum 105 may be non-removable from the launcher 100. Making the drum 105 a detachable component may be for various purposes, such as facilitating compact packaging and transport of the launcher 100, or allowing the drum 105 to be replaced as needed or desired (e.g., if the drum 105 is damaged or used to fire different types of projectiles), or allowing the user to carry a second loaded drum to increase the user's firepower. In an alternative embodiment, a retractable lever (not shown) may be used instead of an opening on the bottom of the launcher 100 to allow the drum 105 to be loaded into the launcher 100. Once the drum 105 is loaded into the launcher 100, the lever can return to a closed position to hold the drum 105. In one embodiment, the lever may be secured in the closed position with a releasable lock or latch so that the drum 105 is not accidentally released from the launcher 100. The lever can retract from the center of the drum 105 to allow removal of the drum 105. In one embodiment, a release button (not shown) or similar device may be integrated into the launcher 100 to release the lock or latch. In an embodiment, drum 105 may include connecting elements (not shown) for detachably engaging corresponding elements (not shown) in transmitter 100 to form a rotary joint that allows rotational advance by block 122 and hook element 123, with stop block 125 ensuring overall alignment and advance of drum 105 each time the user pulls handle 117.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, drum 105 is configured to launch toy darts. The darts may be loaded into drum 105 before drum 100 is loaded into launcher 100 and / or the darts may be loaded and / or reloaded into drum 105 after drum 105 is loaded into launcher 100.

[0058] Return to reference Figure 1The reciprocating frame 118 is coupled with a track 140 for slidably engaging a corresponding pin 145 of a pivotable cylindrical lever 150, such that when the reciprocating frame 118 is moved back and forth by a user moving the loading slide 117, the reciprocating frame 118 can slide along the track 140 against the lever 150. According to an exemplary embodiment, the lever 150 is anchored to the housing 110 of the launcher 100 by a pin 155 to allow the lever 150 to pivot about the pin 155 as the track 140 slides against the pin 145, as will be described in further detail below. In embodiments, the reciprocating frame 118 and / or the lever 150 may be positioned on one side of one of the two side portions or between said two side portions. Figure 1 As shown, the front of the reciprocating frame 118 is connected to the block / frame 158, which in turn is connected to the loading sliding handle 117 around the firing tube 160.

[0059] Therefore, lever 150 can extend to the left and / or right side of reciprocating frame 118 for engaging pins 145 extending to both sides of track 140. As... Figure 1 As shown, lever 150 is also connected to launch tube 160 via tubular retainer 165. In an embodiment, tubular retainer 165 is secured to and surrounds at least a portion of launch tube 160. As will be described in further detail below, lever 150 is connected via pivotable fastener 335 (see...). Figure 3A and 3B It is connected to the tubular retainer 165, thereby allowing the user to pull back the chamber slide 117 to move the firing tube 160 forward, while simultaneously moving the air piston assembly—i.e., the tube 101 and the plunger element 102—backward and advancing the drum 105 in the first back chambering step.

[0060] Figure 2A This is according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 A schematic front view of the drum 105 shown. Figure 2A As shown, drum 105 includes thirty (30) integrated dart holders 205 circumferentially around it, each dart holder being sized to accommodate foam darts 170 used with launcher 105 (see [link to product description]). Figure 1 ).like Figure 2A As further shown, the launcher 100 incorporates a spring-loaded stop 125 that applies a downward force to the drum 105 via its lower edge, the lower edge of which is shaped to retain the dart holder 205 and thus remain aligned with the drum 105. The spring-loaded stop 125 includes a hole 210 to provide clearance for the reciprocating frame 118, allowing it to extend from the front to the rear of the launcher 100, as... Figure 1As shown below, when the user pulls the sliding handle 117 and pushes the drum 105, the outer surface of the drum 105 is pushed upward, thereby lifting the block 125.

[0061] Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view of a single dart holder 205 on the outer periphery of the drum 105 for receiving darts 170, as shown. Figure 1 As shown, it has an elongated dart body 175 and a cap 180 attached to the dart body. The dart body 175 is generally cylindrical and is made of foam or a similar material, while the cap 180 is made of rubber or a similar material. In embodiments, the dart 170 may have a length, for example, in the range of approximately 33 mm to 45 mm, such as 35 mm, 36 mm, 37 mm, or 40 mm, to name just a few. Accordingly, the dart 170 has an outer cross-sectional diameter of 12.9 mm at its widest point. In alternative embodiments, the dart 170 may have an outer cross-sectional diameter of, for example, 12.5 mm, 13 mm, 14 mm, or 15 mm at its widest point, to name just a few. In embodiments, the dart 170 may incorporate one or more recesses and corresponding ridges in its foam body—for example, as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 895,172, filed June 8, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Figure 2B As shown, each dart holder 205 includes a central body portion 220, which is configured as a cylinder with a cross-sectional diameter of approximately 13 mm for assembling and holding the widest point of the foam body of the dart 170. Figure 2B As further shown, each retainer 205 includes a rear end ring 225 extending inward to form a diameter smaller than the opening of the central body portion 220. (As illustrated...) Figure 1 As shown, ring 225 is used to abut the rear end of each dart 170 loaded into drum 105 via insertion through front end 235, and also to abut the front end of nozzle 103. According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the opening formed by the rear end ring 225 has a diameter of approximately 9 mm to allow compressed air from nozzle 103 to pass through and reach the dart 170 for firing. Figure 2BAs shown, the rear opening 230, extending rearward from the ring 225, has a larger cross-sectional diameter than the main body portion 220, for accommodating the nozzle 103 to form an airtight seal from the air piston cylinder 101 to the rear end of the dart 170. Correspondingly, the front opening 235, extending from the front of the central main body portion 220, also has a larger cross-sectional diameter than the main body portion 220 to accommodate the launch tube 160 and form an airtight seal from the main body portion 220 to the launch tube 160. According to an exemplary embodiment, the launch tube 160 has an inner diameter of approximately 13.26 mm to provide minimal clearance for the darts 170, wherein each dart has an outer diameter of approximately 13 mm. Thus, the front opening 235 is sized to accommodate the launch tube 160, which has a slightly larger inner diameter than the inner diameter of the main body portion 220 used to assemble the darts 170. According to an exemplary embodiment, the front opening 235 has an inner diameter of approximately 16.2 mm and the rear opening 230 has an inner diameter of approximately 14.8 mm. The body portion 220 has an inner diameter of approximately 12.9 mm and may have a slight taper from the ring 225 to the front end 235; in other words, it has a slightly larger inner circumference toward the front end 235—to allow each dart 170 to be inserted from the front end 235 to abut against the ring 225 and to hold each dart 170 in place. For example, the inner diameter of the body portion 220 near the front end 235 is slightly larger than 12.9 mm, and the inner diameter of the body portion 220 near the ring 225 is slightly smaller than 12.9 mm.

[0062] Figure 3A It is based on exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 1 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of a toy projectile launcher, with its chambering slider or handle in the rear-loading and chambering (loading) position. Figure 3B and 3C This illustrates exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 1 and 3A Enlarged cross-sectional side view illustration of the details of the launch tube moving assembly in the toy launcher shown.

[0063] like Figure 3A As shown, the toy launcher 100 includes a cylinder 101, which, together with a plunger element 102, forms an air piston assembly. Figure 3A As shown, the cylinder 101 is connected to a reciprocating frame 118 and a block / frame 158 via a sliding handle or loading slide 117. The connection between the loading slide 117 and the frame 118, achieved via the block / frame 158, allows the user to push back the cylinder 101 and the plunger element 102 during the first pullback loading step. Figure 3A As shown, the spring 115 is compressed between the plunger element 102 and the rear wall 107. Advantageously, the plunger element 102 begins near the front of the cylinder 101, as... Figure 1 As shown, therefore, the compression spring 115 can... Figure 3A The position shown is completely compressed.

[0064] According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the rear wall 107 includes a hole that allows the dome-shaped rod portion 305 to extend through and pass through another hole 310 (see...). Figure 1 The additional hole 310 is incorporated in the spring-loaded plate 315, which in turn is connected to the trigger assembly 320. When the user pulls the chambering slide 117 back in a manner similar to that of a pump-action rifle (see...), Figure 3A (Rearward arrow near the upper slide 117) Block / frame 158 pushes frame 118, causing cylinder 101, plunger 102, and rod 305 to also be pushed back. Plate 315 is coupled to compression spring 325, which biases plate 315 downward toward trigger assembly 320. According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the leading edge of dome-shaped rod 305 is rounded, and when it is pushed backward, the rounded, inclined leading edge pushes upward toward hole 310 in plate 315 (see...). Figure 1 The top edge of the plate 315 is compressed by the spring 325, so that the rod 305 can be pushed from the front of the plate 315 through the hole 310 to pass over the opposite rear side of the plate 315, as shown. Figure 1 and Figure 3A As shown. Once the rod 305 has passed through the hole 310 and been pushed far enough past the plate 315, the spring 325 will cause the plate 315 to move downwards to engage with the notch or slot 330 opposite to the rounded surface of the rod 305 (see...). Figure 1 This allows the rod 305 and the corresponding plunger element 102 to engage with and be temporarily held in place by the plate 315. For example... Figure 3A As shown, once plate 315 is pushed downward into recess 330 by compression spring 325, the top edge of hole 310 is correspondingly pushed into the bottom surface of recess 330 (see...). Figure 1 and 3A The notch 330 hooks onto the opposite rear side of the plate 315 above the hole 310—therefore, the plate 315, the compression spring 325, and the notch 330 together form a latch assembly for holding the lever 305 in the rearward position.

[0065] like Figure 3A As further shown and described above, as the plunger element 102 and rod 305 are pushed back by the frame 118, the spring 115 is compressed against the rear wall 107 of the main launcher housing 110 at the position where the plate 315 and the notch 330 are hooked and engaged with each other. In an alternative embodiment, a structural stop (not shown) can be used to limit the rearward movement of the loading slide 117 to the aforementioned fully extended position—that is, the engagement position between the notch 330 and the plate 315.

[0066] Accordingly, as the cylinder 101 and the upper slide 117 move back... Figure 3AIn the configuration shown, the nozzle 103 is pulled away from the rear opening 230 of one of the dart holders 205 in the drum 105, thereby providing space for the drum 105 to rotate. Reference will now be made to... Figure 1 , Figure 3B and Figure 3C To describe the movement of the launch tube 160 at its front end. Figure 3B It shows the use of in Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional side view showing details of the assembly of the stationary position moving the launch tube 160. Specifically, when the loading slide 117 is in... Figure 1 In the forward position shown, the pin 145 of the lever 150 abuts against the rear end of the track 140 in the reciprocating frame 118. (As shown) Figure 3B As described in detail, the track 140 includes an upwardly inclined section 140a toward its rear end, such that when the upper slide 117, together with its corresponding reciprocating frame 118, is in the forward position, the pin 145 is in the upward position. Therefore, as... Figure 1 and Figure 3B As shown, the tubular retainer 165 is in the rearward position, and the launch tube 160 is inserted into the front opening 235 of one of the dart holders 205 in the drum 105.

[0067] Reference Figure 3C When the user pulls the chambering slide 117 backward, pin 145 moves downward along the rear section 140a of track 140, which in turn causes lever 150 to rotate counterclockwise about pivot point 155 in the configuration shown in the figure. Therefore, the rotation of lever 150 pulls tubular retainer 165 forward, thereby moving the firing tube 160 forward (see Figure 140). Figure 3C (Forward arrow near launch tube 160). In this embodiment, as the reciprocating frame 118 moves rearward, the lever 150 can be further rotated by pushing the pin 145 rearward through the front end of the track 140 (see...). Figure 3C (Rearward arrow near center pin 145). Therefore, the rear end of the launch tube 160 is at the front opening 235 of one of the dart holders 205 in the drum 105 (see...). Figure 2B The lever 150 is withdrawn, thereby making room for the drum 105 to rotate at its front end. In an embodiment, the lever 150 may be connected to the tubular retainer 165 via one or more rotary joints 335 on one or both sides of the launch tube 160. Figures 3B-3C In a further detailed description, the launcher 100 includes a stabilizing frame 340 fixed to the housing 110 to maintain alignment as the launch tube 160 slides back and forth via the lever 150. In an embodiment, the rear end of the launch tube 160 may be fitted with a resilient O-ring 345 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 3BThis further improves the airtight seal between the launch tube 160 and the central body portion 220 of the dart holder 205 when the front opening 235 of the dart holder 205 is inserted at the rear end of the launch tube. Furthermore, according to an exemplary embodiment, as... Figure 3C As shown, the rear inner edge of the launch tube 160 includes a conical taper 347 around the inner circumference of the launch tube 160 to provide additional clearance for launching the dart projectile 170 and to avoid impacts such as... Figure 4 In the firing configuration shown (i.e., the launch tube 160 is in the rearward position, as...), Figure 3B As shown, the corners at the junction between the main body 220 of the drum 105 and the launch tube 160 may obstruct the launch.

[0068] In substantially synchronized with the retraction of nozzle 103 from rear opening 230 and launch tube 160 from front opening 235, drum 105 rotates to propel the next dart holder 205. (Return to Reference) Figure 1 and Figure 3A The reciprocating frame 118 extends from the front of the transmitter 100 through a hole in the block 122 to the rear, and the rear of the reciprocating frame 118 includes an upwardly inclined surface 118a, which, when the reciprocating frame... Figure 1 Pull the shown configuration back to Figure 3A In the configuration shown, surface 118a pushes upward the top edge of the hole in block / plate 122. Therefore, as block 122 and its hook element 123 move upward, tension spring 120 extends from anchor 350 fixed to housing 110. As described above, hook element 123 engages with a corresponding notch (not shown) on the rear surface of drum 105 on the left or right side, so as... Figure 2A In the configuration shown, drum 105 moves and rotates in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. In an embodiment, the rear surface of drum 105 includes a notch (not shown) for alignment and engagement with hook element 123. As further described above, the outer surface of drum 105 pushes block 125 upward as drum 105 is advanced by hook element 123 until the next dart holder 205 becomes substantially aligned with block 125, at which point compression spring 355 pushes block 125 downward to accommodate the next dart holder 205 (holding the next dart 170-1, as shown). Figure 3A The outer surface of the (shown) is aligned (this alignment method is in) Figure 2A (Examples are provided).

[0069] For reference Figure 4 With the notch / groove 330 of the rod 305 engaged with the plate 315 by the downward bias of the spring 325, the user can push the chambering slide 117 forward during the second loading step, similar to a pump-action rifle. Figure 4The forward arrow is near the upper slide member 117. Therefore, the cylinder 101 is pulled forward by the reciprocating frame 118 (see the forward arrow near the cylinder 101) towards the front of the launcher 100, while the rod 305 and the plunger element 102 are held in place by the plate 315. Figure 4 As shown, the compression spring 115 remains fully compressed when the upper slide member 117 returns to its original forward position. Therefore, the plunger element 102 forms an air chamber 405 within the cylinder 101, whereby air is drawn in through the front nozzle 103 of the cylinder 101. According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the plunger element 102 incorporates an additional elastic ring 410 on its front surface to further improve the sealing of the air chamber 405 and provide cushioning between the front surface of the plunger element 102 and the inner surface of the rear portion of the cylinder 101. The nozzle 103 may have a diameter much smaller than the diameter of the air chamber 405, such that the forward thrust of the plunger 102 can expel air through the nozzle 103 at a higher pressure.

[0070] like Figure 4 As further shown, when the loading slider 117 moves forward in the direction indicated by the forward arrow, the next dart 170-1 is positioned in the firing position in front of the nozzle 103, the nozzle 103 is now inserted back into the rear opening 230 and aligned with the launch tube 160, and the launch tube 160 is now also inserted back into the front opening 235. Figure 4 As shown, the reciprocating frame 118 pulls the cylinder 101 forward back to the forward position, and the nozzle 103 re-inserts into the opening 230. Correspondingly, the pin 145 slides along the rear 140a of the track 140 (see...). Figure 3B Slide up and move (see) Figure 4 (Upward arrow near the center pin 145), which in turn causes the lever 150 to rotate clockwise about the pivot point 155 in the configuration shown in the figure. Therefore, the rotation of the lever 150 pulls the tubular retainer 165 backward, thereby moving the launch tube 160 backward (see...). Figure 4 (Backward arrow near the tubular retainer 165 and the launch tube 160). According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the launch tube 160 has an inner diameter that provides a minimum clearance for the dart 170 to allow substantially airtight propulsion from the launch tube 160 when pressurized air is released from the air chamber 405.

[0071] like Figure 1 , Figure 3B and Figure 4As shown, the launch tube 160 includes a slightly smaller outer O-ring 345 at its rear to fit into the opening 235 of the dart holder 205, which holds the next dart 170-1 for firing. Correspondingly, the rear opening 230 of the dart holder 205 holding the next dart 170-1 has a slightly larger inner diameter to receive the front nozzle 103 of the tube 101, thereby again achieving a substantially hermetically tight connection from the gas chamber 405 to the rear surface of the dart 170-1 at the firing position in the dart holder 205 for firing through the launch tube 160. According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the nozzle 103 also includes an O-ring 303 surrounding its outer periphery (see [link to example description]). Figure 3A This forms a seal on the inner circumference of the rear opening 230 of the dart holder 205. Advantageously, an airtight seal is formed from the gas chamber 405 through the dart holder 205 to the launch tube 160 to further improve the airtight connection.

[0072] Furthermore, as the reciprocating frame 118 returns to the forward position, the block 122, together with the hook element 123, returns to its lowered position via the tension spring 120, and the hook element 123 is thus aligned to engage the next notch on the drum 205.

[0073] Next, the trigger pull action and the firing action will be described. Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the mating between the rear of the trigger assembly 320 and the locking plate 315. (As shown...) Figure 5 As shown, the trigger assembly 320 includes an inclined surface 520 and an upper surface 525—these together form the top cam surface of the trigger assembly 320, such that when the trigger assembly 320 is pulled back by the user, the locking plate 315 moves upward from the inclined surface 520 to the upper surface 525 against the spring 325. As shown in Figure 7, the trigger assembly 320 can be biased forward by the spring 530 or a similar element in the default position, such that when the trigger 320 is in the forward, default non-firing position, the plate 315 returns to contact with the inclined surface 520. Similarly, the user can pull the trigger assembly 320 back (see Figure 7). Figure 5 (See the rearward arrow near the trigger 320), and as the trigger assembly 320 slides rearward (see extension element 320b of the trigger assembly 320), the rear portion having surfaces 520 and 525, i.e., the top cam surface, is pushed rearward, thereby causing plate 315 to slide upward toward the upper surface 525. Therefore, when plate 315 is pushed upward by the top cam surface (surfaces 520 and 525) of the trigger assembly 320 (see... Figure 5 (Upward arrow near plate 315), the engagement between plate 315 and the notch / groove 330 of rod 305 is released as hole 310 moves upward to the position that allows the notch / groove 330 to protrude. Therefore, as Figure 5As shown, spring 115 is released from its fully compressed state, thereby forcefully driving plunger element 102 forward (see...). Figure 5 The air collected in the chamber 405 is discharged through the nozzle 103 from the air chamber 405 via the nozzle 103, and the dart 107-1 is launched through the launch tube 160, from the compression spring 115 (near the forward arrow) until the buffer ring 410 abuts against the rear inner surface of the tube 101. Advantageously, the airtight seal provided from the nozzle 103 through the dart holder 205 to the launch tube 160 increases the launching force and velocity of the dart 107-1. Accordingly, the trigger assembly 320 returns to the forward default position and the plate 315 returns to its lowered position via the compression spring 325. According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the loading slide 117 can be pulled back again to... Figure 3A The position shown is for loading the next dart 170 in drum 105 into the firing position.

[0074] Alternatively, the trigger assembly 320 may only have an inclined surface 520 at its rear to serve as a cam surface (without requiring plate 315 to reach it). Figure 5 The upper surface 525 shown, therefore, when the inclined plane 520 is pushed backward, it causes the plate 315 to slide upward until the engagement between the plate 315 and the notch / groove 330 of the rod 305 is released as the hole 310 moves upward to the position that allows the notch / groove 330 to be cleared. Additionally, in exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the aforementioned spring 325 may be implemented in the form of a spring-loaded arm or a leaf spring (not shown).

[0075] Next, we will refer to Figure 6A and 6B An alternative exemplary embodiment of the launch tube sealing extension assembly is described. In such an alternative embodiment, the launcher 1000 replaces the described movable launch tube 1600 with a fixed launch tube 1600 having the same inner and outer diameters. Unlike the tubular retainer 165 used to hold and move the launch tube 160, according to this alternative embodiment, the launcher 1000 employs a slidable extension 1650 having a front opening and an inner periphery adapted to the rear end of the launch tube 1600, and having a rear portion of the same size as the launch tube 160 / 1600, thus allowing it to be inserted into the front opening 235 of the dart holder 205 in a manner similar to that of the launch tube 160 described above. Figure 6A and 6B These are shown respectively in the corresponding Figure 3B and 3C An enlarged side sectional view showing details of the extension assembly 1650 at the location of the launch tube 160. The launcher 1000 further includes... Figure 1-5 The transmitter 100 shown has similar components (not shown), and a detailed description of these components and their operation will not be repeated.

[0076] Figure 6A It is shown in the corresponding Figure 3B An enlarged cross-sectional side view of the details of the slidable extension assembly 1650 in the rest position of the cylinder 160 shown. Specifically, when the loading slide 117 is in... Figure 1 In the forward position, as shown, the pin 145 of the lever 150 abuts against the rear end of the track 140 in the reciprocating frame 118. Corresponding to 3B, the track 140 includes an upwardly inclined section 140a toward its rear end, such that when the loading slide 117, together with its corresponding reciprocating frame 118, is in the forward position, the pin 145 is in the upward position. Therefore, the extension assembly 1650 is in the rearward position and inserted into the front opening 235 of one of the dart holders 205 in the drum 105. In this position, the O-ring 3450 on the outer rear portion of the fixed cylinder 1600 and the O-ring 605 on the outer rear portion of the extension assembly 1650 together provide an airtight seal from the dart holder 205 to the firing tube 1600. Therefore, in Figure 6A In the forward stationary / firing position shown, the dart 170-n (not shown), loaded as described above, can be launched via the extension assembly 1650 and the launch tube 1600, and has an airtight connection equivalent to the airtight connection between the dart holder 205 and the launch tube 160. Furthermore, according to an exemplary embodiment, as... Figure 6A As shown, the rear inner edge of the extension assembly 1650 may include a conical taper 1347 around the inner circumference of the extension assembly 1650 to provide additional clearance for launching the dart 170 and to prevent the extension assembly 1650 from being launched in a rearward position (i.e., when the extension assembly 1650 is in the rearward position). Figure 6A As shown, the corners at the junction between the main body portion 220 and the extension assembly 1650 may obstruct the launch.

[0077] See Figure 6B When the user pulls the upper slide 117 backward, the pin 145 moves downward along the rear 140a of the track 140, which in turn causes the lever 150 to rotate counterclockwise about the pivot point 155 in the configuration shown in the figure. Therefore, the rotation of the lever 150 pulls the extension assembly 1650 forward (see figure). Figure 6B (Forward arrow near the extension component 1650). In this embodiment, as the reciprocating frame 118 moves rearward, the lever 150 can be further rotated by pushing the pin 145 rearward through the front end of the track 140 (see...). Figure 6B (Rearward arrow near center pin 145). Therefore, the rear end of the extension assembly 1650 extends from the front opening 235 of one of the dart holders 205 in the drum 105 (see...). Figure 2BThe lever 150 retracts, thus making room for the rotation of the drum 105 at the front end, and, as described above, advances the next dart 170-1 to the firing position. In an embodiment, the lever 150 may be coupled to the extension assembly 1650 via one or more rotary joints 3350 on one or both sides of the extension assembly 1650. Once the next dart 170-1 is chambered into the firing position, the extension assembly 1650 can return to the forward position via the chambering slide 117. Figure 6A At the position shown, the next dart 170-1 can be launched by pulling the trigger 320 in a similar manner to the above.

[0078] While exemplary embodiments are described in the context of foam bullet / dart launchers using shortened foam bullets / darts, it should be understood that the two-step loading / loading and firing action according to this disclosure can be applied to toy projectile launchers or fluid launchers for other types of projectiles (e.g., balls or the like), wherein fluid from a reservoir in the handle is driven by a plunger. In such a context, the two-step loading / pumping action of this disclosure enables handheld high-speed fluid burst launchers.

[0079] *******

[0080] Although specific embodiments of this disclosure have been shown and described in detail, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and improvements can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, it is intended to cover all such modifications and improvements within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A toy projectile launcher, comprising: A projectile drum comprising multiple projectile holders, each projectile holder being adapted to hold a projectile; A barrel slide suitable for forward and backward movement; A reciprocating frame connected to the upper slide; as well as The housing contains: Launch tube; An air piston assembly includes an air piston cylinder with an air nozzle disposed at its front, a plunger element, and a compression spring, wherein the reciprocating frame is aligned with the air piston cylinder and connected to a launch tube via a lever; The projectile drum, launch tube, and air piston assembly are all connected to the upper chamber slide. Specifically, when the loading slider moves from the forward position to the rearward position: The reciprocating frame moves backward, causing the air piston cylinder to move backward and push the plunger element to compress the compression spring against the rear wall of the housing. The lever is pivoted by the reciprocating frame, causing the launch tube to move forward away from the front of the first projectile holder among the plurality of projectile holders; And, when the loading slider moves from the rearward position to the forward position: The air nozzle moves forward to form an airtight seal between the air piston cylinder and the rear of the projectile retainer; and, The launch tube moves backward toward the front of the first projectile holder to form an airtight seal between the front of the first projectile holder and the rear of the launch tube.

2. The toy projectile launcher of claim 1, wherein, The air piston assembly is connected to the upper chamber slide via a connection between the air piston cylinder and the upper chamber slide.

3. The toy projectile launcher of claim 1, wherein, The tubular retainer is fixed to and surrounds at least a portion of the launch tube. The firing tube is moved when the reciprocating frame connected to the upper slide resists the sliding of the lever connected to the tubular retainer.

4. The toy projectile launcher of claim 1, wherein, The projectile drum includes a projectile propulsion mechanism for propelling the next projectile, which is loaded in one of a plurality of projectile holders housed in the projectile drum, to a firing position in front of the air piston cylinder.

5. The toy projectile launcher of claim 3, wherein, When the loading slide moves from the rearward position to the forward position, the plunger element and the air piston cylinder form an internal air chamber.

6. The toy projectile launcher of claim 5, wherein, It also includes a latch assembly connected between the plunger element and the trigger assembly, wherein the trigger assembly is adapted to be pulled back by a user of the toy projectile launcher.

7. The toy projectile launcher of claim 6, wherein, When the trigger assembly is pulled back, the latch assembly between the plunger element and the trigger assembly is released, and the plunger element is pushed forward by the compression spring to expel air from the internal air chamber through the air nozzle located behind the firing position of the loaded projectile and in front of the air piston cylinder.

8. The toy projectile launcher of claim 7, wherein, When the loaded projectile is in the firing position, the air nozzle located at the front of the pneumatic piston cylinder is close to the loaded projectile.

9. The toy projectile launcher of claim 1, wherein, The plunger element forms an airtight seal with the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

10. The toy projectile launcher of claim 1, wherein, The first projectile retainer held in the projectile drum has a front opening, a central body portion, a rear end ring, and a rear opening, wherein the rear opening has a larger cross-sectional diameter than the body portion to accommodate an air nozzle, and the rear opening and the air nozzle form an airtight seal from the air piston cylinder to the rear end of the projectile loaded in the first projectile retainer.

11. The toy projectile launcher of claim 10, wherein, A first O-ring is attached to the outer periphery of the air nozzle, and the first O-ring forms an airtight seal with the inner periphery of the rear opening of the first projectile holder.

12. The toy projectile launcher of claim 10, wherein, The front opening of the first projectile holder has a larger cross-sectional diameter than the central body portion used to accommodate the launch tube, and the front opening and the launch tube form an airtight seal from the central body portion to the launch tube.

13. The toy projectile launcher of claim 12, wherein, The launch tube is provided with a second O-ring at its rear end, wherein the second O-ring and the front opening of the projectile holder form an airtight seal between the launch tube and the central body of the projectile holder.

14. The toy projectile launcher of claim 1, wherein, The projectiles were foam darts.

15. A toy projectile launcher, comprising: A projectile drum comprising multiple projectile holders, each projectile holder being adapted to hold a projectile; A barrel slide suitable for forward and backward movement; A reciprocating frame connected to the upper slide; as well as The housing contains: Fixed launch tube; A slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly mounted on the rear end of a fixed launch tube; An air piston assembly includes an air piston cylinder with an air nozzle disposed at its front, a plunger element, and a compression spring, wherein the reciprocating frame is aligned with the air piston cylinder and connected to a launch tube via a lever; Among them, the projectile drum, the sliding launch tube sealing extension assembly, and the air piston assembly are all connected to the upper chamber sliding component; Specifically, when the loading slider moves from the forward position to the rearward position: The reciprocating frame moves backward, causing the air piston cylinder to move backward and push the plunger element to compress the compression spring against the rear wall of the housing. The lever is pivoted by the reciprocating frame, causing the slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly to move forward away from the front of the first projectile holder among the plurality of projectile holders; And, when the loading slider moves from the rearward position to the forward position: The air nozzle moves forward to form an airtight seal between the air piston cylinder and the rear of the projectile retainer; and, The slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly moves rearward toward the first projectile holder to form an airtight connection between the front of the first projectile holder and the rear of the fixed launch tube.

16. The toy projectile launcher of claim 15, wherein, The air piston assembly is connected to the upper slide via a coupling between the air piston cylinder and the upper slide.

17. The toy projectile launcher of claim 15, wherein, The projectile drum includes a projectile propulsion mechanism for propelling the next projectile, loaded in one of a plurality of projectile holders housed in the projectile drum, to a firing position in front of the air piston cylinder.

18. The toy projectile launcher of claim 17, wherein, When the loading slide moves from the rearward position to the forward position, the plunger element and the air piston cylinder form an internal air chamber.

19. The toy projectile launcher of claim 18, wherein, It also includes a latch assembly connected between the plunger element and the trigger assembly, wherein the trigger assembly is adapted to be pulled back by a user of the toy projectile launcher.

20. The toy projectile launcher of claim 19, wherein, When the trigger assembly is pulled back, the latch assembly between the plunger element and the trigger assembly is released, and the plunger element is pushed forward by the compression spring to expel air from the internal air chamber through the air nozzle located behind the loaded projectile in the firing position and in front of the air piston cylinder.

21. The toy projectile launcher of claim 20, wherein, When the loaded projectile is in the firing position, the air nozzle located in front of the air piston cylinder is close to the loaded projectile.

22. The toy projectile launcher of claim 15, wherein, The plunger element forms an airtight seal with the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

23. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 15, wherein, The first projectile retainer held in the projectile drum has a front opening, a central body portion, a rear end ring, and a rear opening, wherein the rear opening has a larger cross-sectional diameter than the body portion to accommodate an air nozzle, and the rear opening and the air nozzle form an airtight seal from the air piston cylinder to the rear end of the projectile loaded in the first projectile retainer.

24. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 23, wherein, A first O-ring is attached to the outer periphery of the air nozzle, and the first O-ring forms an airtight seal with the inner periphery of the rear opening of the first projectile holder.

25. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 23, wherein, The front opening of the first projectile holder is adapted to a slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly, the front opening and the slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly forming an airtight seal from the central body portion to the fixed launch tube.

26. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 25, wherein, The rear end of the fixed launch tube is fitted with a second O-ring, and the rear end of the slidable launch tube sealing extension assembly is fitted with a third O-ring, the second O-ring and the third O-ring forming an airtight seal between the fixed launch tube and the first projectile holder.

27. The toy projectile launcher as claimed in claim 15, wherein, The projectiles were foam darts.

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