High performance short projectile launcher with piston nozzle spring

Abstract

A toy projectile launcher is disclosed having a projectile container, a cocking slide, and a housing. The projectile container contains a projectile holder adapted to hold a projectile, such as a foam dart. The cocking slide is movable forward and rearward. The housing houses a launch barrel and an air piston assembly. When the cocking slide is moved rearward, the air piston barrel moves rearward and one projectile holder moves into a firing position. The foam dart is held in place by a resilient stop. When the cocking slide is moved forward, the air nozzle contacts the surface of the resilient stop and advances through the projectile holder, pushing the foam dart into the launch barrel. An air tight seal is formed between the launch barrel and the air piston assembly.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 127,442, entitled “High-Performance Short Projectile Launcher with Piston Nozzle Spring,” filed December 18, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] 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

[0004] 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... These foam projectiles are sold commercially, featuring rubber ends and a foam body approximately 71.5 mm in length. Various types of rifles and machine guns are already on the market for firing these foam projectiles.

[0005] 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 at a relatively high speed for an appropriate distance.

[0006] 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.

[0007] For example, launchers with metal tubes instead of plastic tubes have been used to increase firing speed. The dimensions of such launchers and darts are typically designed to have a very small gap between the inner diameter of the launcher tube and the outer diameter of the dart to provide improved firing speed and accuracy.

[0008] The launching force of the aforementioned metal tube launcher needs further improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0009] To address the aforementioned needs, this disclosure generally relates to an improved toy launcher for firing high-performance foam darts. According to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, one or more sealing mechanisms are provided to improve the hermetically tight seal from the air piston mechanism to the launch tube of the toy projectile launcher. To this end, the launcher may include a mechanism for loading a high-performance foam dart from a storage chamber to the firing position of the launch tube while forming a hermetically tight seal between the air piston nozzle and the launch tube, thereby improving the firing dynamics of the loaded dart. For example, co-pending U.S. Patent Applications Nos. 63 / 020,086 and 63 / 112,213 disclose respective pistol-type launchers that include mechanisms for loading darts stored in a storage handle or magazine to the firing position of the launch tube of the pistol-type launcher. (The contents of U.S. Patent Applications Nos. 63 / 020,086 and 63 / 112,213 are incorporated herein by reference.) In the disclosed launcher, an air piston assembly is movable with a chambering slide in a two-step loading / loading manner, wherein the air piston assembly retracts when the chambering slide is pulled back, thereby allowing a top-positioned dart in the storage compartment (storage handle or magazine) to be raised to a position in front of the air piston assembly, and when the chambering slide is pushed forward, the air piston assembly is pushed forward such that the air nozzle at the front of the air piston assembly pushes the top-positioned dart into the launch tube, forming an airtight seal with the launch tube behind the chambered dart.

[0010] While this pistol launcher offers improved firing power and accuracy, enthusiasts in the game prefer to use launchers with larger capacity. A larger storage capacity increases the number of shots the launcher can fire between reloads. However, magazines or storage handles can only extend to a certain extent; beyond that, they become cumbersome due to their length. Co-pending U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 066,389 discloses a launcher based on a submachine gun configuration, including a feeding mechanism for loading dart rounds stored in a magazine inserted into the launcher in a direction parallel to the firing direction. (The contents of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 066,389 are incorporated herein by reference.) Thus, this submachine gun-style launcher offers a higher-capacity magazine that does not extend in a direction orthogonal to the launcher, thereby providing greater capacity without becoming cumbersome. Nevertheless, all high-performance launchers with dart-loaded magazines and sealed cartridges still only hold a maximum of 20 dart rounds.

[0011] To address the aforementioned problems, this disclosure provides a mechanism adapted to an air piston nozzle that passes through a storage drum to chamber darts stored in the storage cylinder and form an hermetically sealed connection with the launch tube in front of the storage drum. Advantageously, this enables a highly efficient and high-performance launcher that provides high-speed and accurate projectile firing while allowing for a large-capacity storage drum. This disclosure provides a resilient mechanism that holds each foam dart in the proper position within the storage area without any reduction in the drum diameter typically caused by adding a retaining wall behind the dart holder in a conventional storage drum. This resilient mechanism allows the air piston nozzle to have a maximum diameter capable of passing through the storage area and forming a hermetically sealed connection with the launch tube. Using an air piston nozzle with a sufficiently large cross-section allows for a direct hermetically sealed connection between the nozzle and the launch tube.

[0012] Specifically, the present invention 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 components of the launcher to achieve high firing force of a compact projectile and a higher capacity storage drum.

[0013] 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.

[0014] According to an exemplary embodiment, the air piston assembly includes an air piston cylinder, a plunger element, and a compression spring.

[0015] In one embodiment, the toy launcher includes a coupling mechanism between the chamber slide and the air piston cylinder.

[0016] In one embodiment, when the upper slide is moved to the rearward position, the air piston cylinder can be moved to the rearward position.

[0017] In one embodiment, when the upper slide is moved to the rearward position, the front of the air piston cylinder pushes the plunger element to press the compression spring against the rear wall of the toy launcher.

[0018] 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.

[0019] In one embodiment, the projectile retainer includes a plurality of resilient projectile stops, each projectile stop abutting against a portion of a corresponding projectile loaded in the projectile retainer.

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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 launch tube.

[0022] In an embodiment, each elastic projectile stop includes a surface configured to face the forward air piston and be propelled by the forward air nozzle as the air piston cylinder is pushed forward by the chambered slide returning from the rearward position to the forward position.

[0023] In one embodiment, each resilient projectile stop bends outward when pushed by the front air nozzle to make way for the front nozzle so that it can extend through the projectile holder.

[0024] In one embodiment, when the loading slider moves to the forward position, the front air nozzle is connected to the launch tube via the projectile retainer.

[0025] In one embodiment, when the loading slide is in the forward position, the front air nozzle forms an airtight connection with the launch tube by forming an airtight seal with the launch tube interface section.

[0026] In one embodiment, the front air nozzle pushes the next loaded projectile from the projectile holder into the firing position located in front of the airtight seal at the launch tube interface section.

[0027] 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 a front air nozzle on the front of the air piston cylinder after the next loaded projectile in the firing position.

[0028] In one embodiment, in the firing position, the air nozzle at the front end of the air piston cylinder is adjacent to the projectile.

[0029] In one embodiment, a toy projectile launcher includes: a projectile container comprising a plurality of projectile holders, each projectile holder configured to receive a loaded projectile, wherein the projectile container includes a plurality of resilient projectile stops, each resilient projectile stop abutting a portion of a projectile loaded in a corresponding projectile holder; a loading slide adapted for forward and rearward movement; and a housing having: a launch tube; an air piston assembly including an air piston cylinder having an air nozzle disposed at a front, a plunger element, and a compression spring; wherein the projectile container, the launch tube, and the air piston assembly are all connected to the loading slide; wherein, when the loading slide moves from a forward position to a rearward position: the front portion of the air piston cylinder moves rearward and pushes the plunger element to compress the compression spring against the rear wall of the housing, wherein the plunger element and the compression spring are held in place by a latching assembly, and a projectile propulsion mechanism is connected to the projectile container. Engagement, and advance the next projectile holder containing the loaded projectile to the firing position in front of the air piston cylinder; wherein, as the loading slide moves from the rearward position to the forward position: the front portion of the air piston cylinder moves forward, forming an internal air chamber between the front portion of the air piston cylinder and the plunger element, and the air nozzle moves forward to form an airtight seal between the air piston cylinder and the launch tube, wherein the front portion of the air nozzle engages with the rear surface of one of a plurality of elastic projectile stops, wherein, during said engagement with the front portion of the air nozzle, one of the plurality of elastic projectile stops located at the front portion of the air nozzle bends outward to allow the front portion of the air nozzle to extend through the next projectile holder, wherein the front portion of the air nozzle pushes the projectile loaded in the next projectile holder from the next projectile holder into the launch tube, wherein the front portion of the air nozzle is connected to the launch tube to form an airtight seal between the air piston cylinder and the launch tube.

[0030] In one embodiment, the front of the air nozzle pushes the loaded projectile from the next projectile holder into the firing position located in front of the airtight seal between the launch tube and the air piston tube.

[0031] In one embodiment, the plunger element is sized to form an airtight seal with the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

[0032] In one embodiment, the plunger element includes a resilient O-ring to form an airtight seal between the plunger element and the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

[0033] In one embodiment, an elastic ring is incorporated on the inner surface of the air piston cylinder, wherein the elastic ring forms an airtight seal between the plunger element and the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

[0034] In one embodiment, the multiple elastic projectile stops include multiple S-shaped cantilever springs.

[0035] In one embodiment, a latch assembly is connected between a plunger element and a trigger assembly, wherein the trigger assembly is adapted to be pulled back by a user of the toy projectile launcher.

[0036] 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.

[0037] In this embodiment, the projectile is a foam dart.

[0038] In one embodiment, a toy projectile launcher includes: a projectile container comprising a plurality of projectile holders, each projectile holder configured to receive a loaded projectile, wherein the projectile container includes a plurality of resilient projectile stops, each resilient projectile stop abutting a portion of a projectile loaded in a corresponding projectile holder; a loading slide adapted for forward and rearward movement; and a housing having: a launch tube; a launch tube interface section coupled to the 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 container, the launch tube, and the air piston assembly are all connected to the loading slide; wherein, when the loading slide moves from a forward position to a rearward position: the front portion of the air piston cylinder moves rearward and pushes the plunger element to compress the compression spring against the rear wall of the housing, wherein the plunger element and the compressed projectile... The spring is held in place by a latching mechanism, and the projectile propulsion mechanism engages with the projectile container and advances the next projectile holder containing the loaded projectile to a firing position in front of the air piston cylinder; wherein, when the loading slide moves from the rearward position to the forward position: the front portion of the air piston cylinder moves forward, forming an internal air chamber between the front portion of the air piston cylinder and the plunger element, and the front portion of the air nozzle forms an airtight connection with the launch tube through an airtight seal between the launch tube interface section and the front portion of the air nozzle, wherein the front portion of the air nozzle engages the rear surface of one of a plurality of elastic projectile stops, wherein, during said engagement with the front portion of the air nozzle, one of the plurality of elastic projectile stops bends outward to allow the front portion of the air nozzle to extend through the next projectile holder, wherein the front portion of the air nozzle pushes the projectile loaded in the next projectile holder from the next projectile holder into the launch tube interface section.

[0039] In one embodiment, the front of the air nozzle pushes the loaded projectile from the next projectile holder into the firing position in the launch tube interface section located in front of the airtight seal between the launch tube interface section and the air piston.

[0040] In one embodiment, the launch tube interface section has a rounded taper at its rear inner edge.

[0041] In one embodiment, the air nozzle is coupled with an O-ring surrounding the outer periphery of the air nozzle, wherein the O-ring of the air nozzle forms a seal around the inner periphery of the launch tube interface section.

[0042] In one embodiment, the plunger element is sized to form an airtight seal with the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

[0043] In one embodiment, the plunger element includes a resilient O-ring to form an airtight seal between the plunger element and the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

[0044] In one embodiment, an elastic ring is incorporated on the inner surface of the air piston cylinder, wherein the elastic ring forms an airtight seal between the plunger element and the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

[0045] In one embodiment, the multiple elastic projectile stops include multiple S-shaped cantilever springs.

[0046] In one embodiment, a latch assembly is connected between a plunger element and a trigger assembly, wherein the trigger assembly is adapted to be pulled back by a user of the toy projectile launcher.

[0047] 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 in front of the air piston cylinder.

[0048] In this embodiment, the projectile is a foam dart.

[0049] In an embodiment, a magazine for use with a projectile launcher having a launch tube, an air piston tube, and an air nozzle includes a front element comprising a plurality of projectile holders, each configured to hold a projectile; a rear element; and a plurality of resilient projectile stops, each resilient projectile stop corresponding to one of the plurality of projectile holders, wherein each resilient projectile stop has a front surface at least partially located within the corresponding projectile holder and abutting against the rear surface of the projectile held within the projectile holder to hold the projectile in a corresponding position. Within a corresponding projectile holder; wherein each of the plurality of projectile holders has a front opening and a rear opening through which an air nozzle of the projectile launcher can extend, and each resilient projectile stop has a rear surface configured to engage with the air nozzle and bend away from the corresponding projectile holder upon engagement, so as to allow the air nozzle to extend through the corresponding projectile holder to eject the projectile from the corresponding projectile holder and into the launch tube of the projectile launcher, wherein the outer diameter of the air nozzle is substantially the same as the inner diameter of the corresponding projectile holder to maintain an airtight seal from the launch tube to the air piston tube.

[0050] In one embodiment, the drum also includes at least one notch attached to its rear element, the at least one notch being configured to engage with a hook-shaped element of the propulsion block of the projectile launcher, wherein, when the hook-shaped element and the notch are engaged, the drum rotates to advance the next projectile holder to the firing position within the projectile launcher.

[0051] In one embodiment, the drum also includes a plurality of spring assemblies, each spring assembly anchoring one or more of a plurality of elastic projectile stops to the drum.

[0052] In one embodiment, multiple elastic projectile stops are made of an elastic thermoplastic material.

[0053] In this embodiment, the multiple elastic projectile stops are S-shaped cantilever springs.

[0054] In one embodiment, the drum magazine can be detached from the projectile launcher.

[0055] In this embodiment, the projectile is a foam dart. Attached Figure Description

[0056] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0057] 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.

[0058] Figure 2 This is based on exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic partial cross-sectional side view of the drum.

[0059] Figure 3A is an exemplary embodiment according to the present 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.

[0060] Figure 3B illustrates an exemplary embodiment according to the present disclosure. Figure 1 - A magnified cross-sectional side view illustration of the details of the dart stop spring element and the drum in the toy launcher shown in Figure 3A.

[0061] Figure 4A FIG3A is a schematic partial cross-sectional side view of a toy projectile launcher according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the loading slider or handle is returning to the forward firing position.

[0062] Figure 4B This illustrates exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 1-4A Enlarged cross-sectional side view illustration of the details of the dart stop spring element in the toy launcher and drum.

[0063] Figure 5 It is based on exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 4A A schematic partial cross-sectional side view of a toy projectile launcher that fires foam darts after the trigger is pulled.

[0064] Figure 6 Depicting Figures 1-5 An exemplary embodiment of the nozzle of the emitter.

[0065] Figure 7 yes Figures 1-5 The exploded view of the drum shown illustrates its front components, spring assembly, and rear components in an exploded form.

[0066] Figure 8A yes Figure 7 The front view of the drum shown is shown. Figure 8B yes Figure 7 The side view of the drum magazine shown in Figure 8C is... Figure 8A The cross-sectional view along line AA, Figure 8D is Figure 7 The rear view of a partial cross-section of the drum shown.

[0067] Figure 9A and 9B Depicting Figure 7 An exemplary embodiment of one of the spring assemblies.

[0068] Figure 10 Depicting Figure 7 An exemplary embodiment of the drum.

[0069] Figure 11 Depicting Figure 7 An exemplary embodiment of the front element.

[0070] Figure 12 Depicting Figure 7 Rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a drum magazine.

[0071] Figure 13A is an exploded view of a drum according to an alternative exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, showing its front element, spring element and rear element in exploded form.

[0072] Figure 13B is an enlarged illustration of the spring element in Figure 13A.

[0073] Figure 14A This is a front view of the drum magazine shown in Figure 13A. Figure 14B Figure 13A is a side view of the drum magazine, and Figure 14C is... Figure 14A Figure 14D is a sectional view along line AA and a partial cross-sectional rear view of the drum shown in Figure 13A.

[0074] Figure 15This is an exploded view of a drum according to an alternative exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, showing its front components, spring assembly and rear components in exploded form.

[0075] Figure 16A yes Figure 15 The front view of the drum shown is shown. Figure 16B yes Figure 15 The side view of the drum shown is shown. Figure 16C yes Figure 16A A sectional view along line AA, and, Figure 16D yes Figure 15 The rear view of a partial cross-section of the drum shown.

[0076] Figure 17 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional side view of a key element of a toy projectile launcher according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] Figure 18A This is an alternative exemplary embodiment based on the present disclosure. Figure 17 The diagram shows a schematic partial cross-sectional side view of the ammunition magazine.

[0078] Figure 18B yes Figure 17 and 18A Enlarged side illustration of the dart-throwing spring element.

[0079] Figure 18C It is a combination Figure 17 and 18A ammunition magazine Figure 18B A schematic side view of a spring element.

[0080] Figure 19 yes Figure 17 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.

[0081] Figure 20A yes Figure 19 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.

[0082] Figure 20B and 20C This illustrates an exemplary embodiment that is an alternative to the present disclosure. Figures 17-20A Enlarged cross-sectional side view illustration of details of the dart stop spring element and magazine in a toy launcher.

[0083] Figure 21 yes Figure 20A A schematic partial cross-sectional side view of a toy projectile launcher that fires foam darts after the trigger is pulled. Detailed Implementation

[0084] 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.

[0085] Figure 1 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of key components of a toy projectile launcher 100 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 disclosure are not shown. Those skilled in the art will readily understand the supporting elements required to accommodate and support the various illustrated components, including those facilitating the insertion and removal of the magazine 105 from the launcher 100, and those facilitating the insertion and removal of the magazine assembly 1705 from the launcher 100 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 17 ( ), with various design options that do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0086] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a toy projectile launcher in the unloaded position according to an exemplary embodiment of this 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, including a cylinder 101, a plunger element 102, and a front air nozzle 103, is located above a handle 104 and disposed within the housing 110 of the projectile launcher 100, behind the projectile holding drum 105. According to an exemplary embodiment, the cylinder 101 of the air piston assembly has a generally cylindrical or elliptical cross-section, 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 cross-sectional shape 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.

[0087] like Figure 1As 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 fitted into 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 chambers the air piston assembly as it feeds the foam darts for firing into the launcher.

[0088] like Figure 1 As shown, a tension spring 120 is coupled to a drum magazine advance block / plate 122, which includes a hook-shaped element 123 for engaging a corresponding notch (not shown) on the drum magazine 105. As will be described in further detail below, the drum magazine 105, which receives projectiles—such as foam darts / bullets, etc.—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 magazine 105 in the aligned position as it is advanced via the block 122 and the hook-shaped element 123.

[0089] In some embodiments, the drum magazine 105 may be non-removable from the launcher 100. Making the drum magazine 105 a detachable component may be for various purposes, such as facilitating compact packaging and transport of the launcher 100, or allowing for replacement of the drum magazine 105 as needed or desired (e.g., if damaged or used to fire different types of projectiles), or allowing the user to carry a second loaded drum magazine to increase the user's firepower. In an alternative embodiment, a retractable lever (not shown) may be used instead of the opening on the bottom of the launcher 100 to allow the drum magazine 105 to be loaded into the launcher 100. Accordingly, the loading slider 117 can be pulled back to the configuration shown in FIG. 3A, causing the air nozzle 103 to retract from the drum magazine 105, allowing the user to unload and reload the drum magazine 105. Once the drum magazine 105 is loaded into the launcher 100, the lever can return to the closed position to hold the drum magazine 105, and accordingly, the user can return the loading slider 117 to... Figure 4AThe forward position shown allows for the reinsertion of the air nozzle 103 into the magazine 105, simultaneously preparing the next projectile for firing, as will be described in further detail below. In an embodiment, the lever can be secured in the closed position with a releasable lock or latch to prevent the magazine 105 from accidentally disengaging from the launcher 100. The lever can retract from the center of the magazine 105 to allow for disassembly of the magazine 105. In an embodiment, a release button (not shown) or similar device may be incorporated into the launcher 100 to release the lock or latch. In an embodiment, the magazine 105 may include connecting elements (not shown) for detachably engaging corresponding elements (not shown) in the launcher 100 to form a rotatable joint that allows for rotational advancement by block 122 and hook-shaped element 123, with stop block 125 ensuring the overall aligned advancement of the magazine 105 each time the user pulls the handle 117.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the drum 105 is configured to launch toy darts. The darts may be loaded into the drum 105 before being loaded into the launcher 100 and / or may be loaded and / or reloaded into the drum 105 after it has been loaded into the launcher 100. According to an exemplary embodiment, as... Figure 1 As shown, the dart 170 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.

[0091] like Figure 1 As shown and will be described in further detail below, the magazine 105 incorporates an S-shaped cantilever stop spring 140 for each projectile retainer. This stop spring has downward flexibility to allow the nozzle 103 of the air piston assembly to pass from the rear through the magazine 105 and connect to and seal with the front barrel section 165 of the magazine 105. The barrel section 165 may be made of metal or other smooth material to reduce friction and enhance the seal with the nozzle 103. In embodiments, the barrel section 165 may be removed and replaced with a longer launch tube 160.

[0092] According to an exemplary embodiment, the spring 140 is made of an elastic thermoplastic material. In embodiments, other suitable elastic materials may be used to provide the spring 140 with the required flexibility so that it extends through the drum 105 as the nozzle 103 extends. Figure 1 As shown, it can bend and move away from the dart holder 205 ( Figure 2 The air nozzle 103 can return to its original configuration as a backstop (or stop) for the dart 170 held in the dart holder 205 (Figures 3A and 3B) located in the drum 105. Conventional drums utilize a rigid retaining wall at the rear of the drum to hold the darts within the drum. When the drum has openings that allow the darts to be pushed forward for launch, the cross-sectional area of ​​these openings is necessarily smaller than that of the dart holder in such a drum. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the diameter of the air nozzle 103 can be maximized because the spring 140 can be displaced from the dart holder 205 as the nozzle 103 moves through the dart holder 205.

[0093] like Figure 1 As shown, the barrel interface section 165 is fixed to the housing 110 and includes a rear opening for receiving the nozzle 103 and a opposing front opening connected to the launch tube 160. In an embodiment, the barrel interface section 165 is fixed to and surrounds at least a portion of the launch tube 160. As will be described in further detail below, the barrel interface section 165 forms an airtight connection between the air piston nozzle 103 and the launch tube 160 and is prepared to receive a loaded projectile, such as a foam dart 170, into a loaded position for firing. Thus, the user can pull back the chambering slide 117 to move the air piston assembly—i.e., the barrel 101, plunger element 102, and nozzle 103—backward and advance the magazine 105 in a first chambering step, and then, in a second chambering step, the user can push the chambering slide 117 forward to advance the barrel 101 and nozzle 103. As will be described in detail below and in Figure 3A- Figure 4B As shown, the next dart 170-1 held in the drum 105 is pushed forward into the tube inlet section 165 by the nozzle 103 and enters the firing position in front of the nozzle 103. Since the outer diameter of the air nozzle 103 is basically the same as the inner diameter of the dart holder 205 and the inner diameter of the tube inlet section 165, an airtight seal is formed behind the dart 170-1 with the tube inlet section 165.

[0094] Figure 2 This is based on exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1 A schematic partial cross-sectional side view of the drum magazine 105 shown. Figure 2 As shown, the drum 105 includes thirty (30) integrated dart holders 205 surrounding its outer periphery, each dart holder being sized to accommodate foam darts 170 used with the launcher 100. Figure 1 ), and, in such cases Figure 1 In the illustrated arrangement, nozzle 103 extends through the dart holder to connect to the barrel interface section 165. Without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the drum magazine may contain a different number of dart holders 205 and / or a different number of rows of dart holders 205. For example, in some embodiments, the drum magazine 105 may contain an outer row of forty (40) darts and may further include an additional inner row of darts surrounding the inner circumference of the outer row of darts. Co-pending U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 038,106 discloses an example of a drum magazine containing multiple rows of darts. (The contents of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 038,106 are incorporated herein by reference.) Figure 2 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 1 As shown below, when the user pulls the sliding handle 117 and pushes the drum 105 forward, the outer surface of the drum 105 is pushed upward, thereby lifting the stop block 125.

[0095] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the S-shaped cantilever spring 140 (also as) serves as the dart stop for each dart holder 205 Figure 1 As shown, the darts are coupled and secured to the drum 105 via spring assemblies 215a-e, and each spring assembly includes six (6) S-shaped springs 140 for corresponding dart holders 205 located on the outer periphery of the drum 105. As will be described in further detail below, each S-shaped cantilever spring 140 includes a rear hook 1405 (see Figure 3B) with a stop 1410-1 for holding the dart 170, and the rear hook 1405 is bendable downward (see Figure 3B). Figure 4B This allows the nozzle 103 to extend through the dart holder 205. Alternative arrangements and embodiments of the cantilever spring 140 will also be described below.

[0096] Figure 3A is an exemplary embodiment according to the present disclosure. Figure 1 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of a toy projectile launcher, with its handle in the rear-loading and chambering (loading) position. Figure 3B is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment according to this disclosure. Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional side view illustration showing details of the drum 105 and the tube interface section 165 shown in Figure 3A.

[0097] As shown in Figure 3A, the toy launcher 100 includes a cylinder 101, which, together with a plunger element 102, forms an air piston assembly. As shown in Figure 3A, the cylinder 101 is connected to a sliding handle or loading slide 117 via a reciprocating frame 118, which is connected to a block / frame 158. The connection between the loading slide 117 and the frame 118 via the block / frame 158 allows the user to push back the cylinder 101 and plunger element 102 during a first pull-back loading step. As shown in Figure 3A, a 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, the compression spring 115 can therefore be fully compressed at the position shown in Figure 3A.

[0098] 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 a further hole 310. Figure 1 The additional hole 310 is incorporated in a spring-loaded plate 315, which in turn is connected to the trigger assembly 320. When the user pulls the chamber slide 117 back in a manner similar to that of a pump-action rifle (see the backward arrow near the chamber slide 117 in FIG. 3A), the block / frame 158 pushes the frame 118, causing the cylinder 101, plunger 102, and rod portion 305 to also be pushed back. The plate 315 is coupled to a compression spring 325, which biases the plate 315 downward toward the trigger assembly 320. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the leading edge of the dome-shaped rod portion 305 is rounded, and when it is pushed back, the rounded, inclined leading edge pushes the hole 310 in the plate 315 upward. Figure 1 The top edge of the plate 315 is compressed by the spring 325, so that the rod portion 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 As shown in Figure 3A. Once the rod portion 305 is pushed far enough past the plate 315 through the orifice 310, 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 portion 305 (see Figure 3A). Figure 1 This causes the rod portion 305 and the corresponding plunger element 210 to engage with and be temporarily held in place by the plate 315. As shown in Figure 3A, once the plate 315 is pushed downward into the recess 330 by the compression spring 325 and the top edge of the corresponding hole 310 is pushed into the bottom surface of the recess 330 (see Figure 3A), the plate 315 is then engaged with and temporarily held in place by the plate 315. 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 to hold the rod portion 305 in the rearward position so that the compression spring 115 is fully compressed.

[0099] As further shown in Figure 3A and described above, as the plunger element 102 and rod portion 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 hook and engage with each other. In an alternative embodiment, a structural stop (not shown) may 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.

[0100] Accordingly, as the cylinder 101 and the loading slide 117 move back to the configuration shown in FIG. 3A, the nozzle 103 is pulled back away from the cylinder interface section 165 and through the rear opening in the dart holder 205 (see 230-1 in FIG. 3B) and away from one of the dart holders 205 in the drum 105, thereby making room at the rear end to allow the drum 105 to rotate.

[0101] Furthermore, according to an exemplary embodiment, the inner rear edge of the launch tube interface section 165 includes a chamfered or beveled edge 347 surrounding the inner circumference of the launch tube interface section 165, as shown in FIG3B, to provide additional clearance for loading the dart 170 into the chamber. Figure 4A and 4B The firing position is shown, and the corners between the dart holder 205 (205-1 in FIG. 3B) and the barrel interface section 165 in the drum 105 are avoided from obstructing the loading process.

[0102] With nozzle 103 from dart holder 205 of drum 105 ( Figure 1 and 2 The drum 105 retracts in near-synchronous motion to advance to the next dart holder 205-1 (Figure 3B). Return to reference. Figure 1 As shown in Figure 3A, the reciprocating motion frame 118 extends from the front of the transmitter 100 through a hole in the block / plate 122 to the rear, and the rear of the reciprocating motion frame 118 includes an upwardly inclined surface 118a, which is used when the reciprocating frame moves from... Figure 1 When the configuration shown is pulled back to the configuration shown in FIG. 3A, 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 2In the illustrated configuration, the drum 105 moves and rotates clockwise or counterclockwise. In an embodiment, the rear surface of the drum 105 includes a notch (not shown) for engagement and alignment with the hook element 123. As described above, the outer surface of the drum 105 pushes the block 125 upward as the drum 105 is advanced by the hook element 123 until the next dart holder 205-1 becomes substantially aligned with the block 125. At this point, the compression spring 355 pushes the block 125 downward to align around the outer surface of the next dart holder 205-1 (holding the next dart 170-1, as shown in FIG. 3A) to achieve alignment (this alignment is in... Figure 2 (Examples are provided).

[0103] Figure 3B is a partially enlarged cross-sectional illustration of the launcher 100 shown in Figure 3A, showing a single dart holder 205-1 holding the next dart 170-1 after the drum 105 has rotated as the loading slide 117 has been pulled. As shown in Figure 3B, each dart holder (205-1) includes a central body portion (220-1) 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 170-1. As further shown in Figure 3B, each retainer (205-1) includes an internal rear end opening for an inward extension of the spring (140-1) such that its hook-shaped element (1405-1) forms a forward-facing planar stop (1410-1) to stop the rear end of the dart (170-1), thereby holding the dart (170-1) in the central body portion of the dart retainer (205-1) and preventing the dart 170-1 from moving through the rear of the drum during loading. Each hook-shaped element (1405-1) is used to engage the rear end of each corresponding dart (170-1), which is loaded into the drum 105 by insertion into the front end (235-1) of each dart retainer (205-1). According to an exemplary embodiment, both the launch tube 160 and the launch tube interface section 165 have an inner diameter of approximately 13.26 mm to provide a minimum clearance for the darts 170, wherein each dart 170 has an outer diameter of approximately 13 mm. According to an exemplary embodiment, the body portion (220-1), including the hook-shaped portion (1405-1), has an inner diameter of approximately 12.9 mm and may taper slightly from the hook-shaped element 1405-1 to the front end 235—in other words, having a slightly larger inner circumference toward the front end 235—to allow each dart (170-1) to be inserted from the front end (235-1) to abut against the forward surface (1410-1) of the hook-shaped element (1405-1) and to hold each dart (170-1) in place. For example, the inner diameter of the main body portion (220-1) near the front end 235 is slightly larger than 12.9 mm, and the inner diameter of the main body portion (220-1) near the hook element (1405-1) is slightly smaller than 12.9 mm.

[0104] For reference Figure 4A In the notch / groove 330 of the rod portion 305 ( Figure 1 With the spring 325 biased downwards and engaged with the plate 315, the user can push the chambering slide 117 forward during the second loading step—similar to a pump-action rifle—see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 4A The forward arrow is near the upper slide member 117. Therefore, the cylinder 101 is pulled forward by the reciprocating motion frame 118 (see the forward arrow near the cylinder 101) towards the front of the launcher 100, while the rod portion 305 and the plunger element 102 are held in place by the plate 315. Figure 4AAs 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, an additional elastic ring 410 is incorporated on the inner surface of the rear portion of the cylinder 101 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.

[0105] like Figure 4A As further shown, when the loading slider 117 moves forward in the direction indicated by the forward arrow, the next dart 170-1 is pushed forward from the drum 105 into the tube interface section 165 by the nozzle 103, and is now inserted back into the rear opening of the tube interface section 165 via the dart holder 205-1. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, both the launch tube 160 and the launch tube interface section 165 have an inner diameter that provides minimal clearance for the dart 170, allowing for substantially airtight propulsion from the launch tube 160 when pressurized air is released from the air chamber 405.

[0106] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A The enlarged cross-sectional illustration of the launcher 100 shown illustrates the firing position where the next dart 170-1 is being propelled forward into the barrel inlet section 165 by the nozzle 103. Figure 4B As shown, when the loading slider 117 moves forward, and the cylinder 101 moves forward accordingly, the nozzle 103 is pushed forward into the dart holder 205-1, and the leading edge of the nozzle 103 pushes against the inclined rear surface 1415-1 of the hook element 1405-1. Therefore, the spring element 140-1 bends downward and the hook element 1405-1 makes room for the nozzle 103 to extend through the dart holder 205-1 to reach the cylinder interface section 165. Because the spring element 140-1 is completely removed from the dart holder 205-1, the outer diameter of the nozzle 103 can be almost the same as the inner diameter of the dart holder 205, thereby maximizing the diameter of the nozzle 103, which contrasts with the reduced diameter nozzles resulting from the use of a rigid holding ratio in the rear of a conventional drum magazine. According to an exemplary embodiment, the drum 105 includes a notch 1455-1 adapted to each dart holder 205-1 to prevent downward movement of the hook element 1405-1, thereby relieving stress on the spring 140-1 as the nozzle 103 extends through the dart holder 205-1. As described above with reference to FIG. 3B, the rear end of the barrel section 165 includes a rounded taper 347 around the inner circumference of the barrel section 165. Figure 4BAs shown, the slightly larger inner diameter at the tail end of the cylinder inlet section 165 is used to receive the front end of the nozzle 103, thereby forming an airtight seal between the air piston cylinder 101 and the rear end of the dart 170-1.

[0107] like Figure 1 , 4A As shown in 4B, the nozzle 103 is fitted with an O-ring 303 around its outer circumference (see 4B). Figure 4A and 4B A seal is formed around the inner circumference of the rear opening of the launch tube interface section 165. Advantageously, an airtight seal is formed directly from the air chamber 405 through the nozzle 103 to the rear end of the dart 170-1 now located in the firing position within the launch tube interface section 165, without requiring any connection to the dart holder 205, thus further improving the airtight connection. Furthermore, the spring 140-1 allows the nozzle 103 to have a larger cross-section—for example, having an outer diameter slightly less than 12.9 mm to fit through the body portion 220 of each dart holder 205—so that an airtight seal can be formed with the tube interface section 165, while the air outlet of the nozzle 103 substantially overlaps with the rear end of the dart 170-1, thereby increasing the launching force on the dart 170-1.

[0108] As the reciprocating motion 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.

[0109] Next, the trigger pull action and the firing action will be described. Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the mating structure 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. In an embodiment, 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 re-engages with the inclined surface 520. Similarly, the user can pull the trigger assembly 320 back (see [link to documentation]). 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 portion 305 is released as hole 310 moves upward to the position that releases the notch / groove 330. Therefore, as Figure 5 As shown, spring 115 is released from its fully compressed state, thereby forcefully driving plunger element 102 forward (see...). Figure 5 (Forward arrow near the compression spring 115) until the front surface of the plunger element 102 abuts against the buffer ring 410 on the rear inner surface of the cylinder 101, thereby discharging the collected air from the air chamber 405 through the nozzle 103 to launch the dart 107-1 through the launch tube 160.

[0110] Advantageously, by bypassing the dart holder 205 through an airtight seal from nozzle 103 to barrel inlet section 165 and launch tube 160, the launching force and velocity of dart 107-1 are increased. Accordingly, trigger assembly 320 returns to its forward default position and plate 315 returns to its lowered position via compression spring 325. According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the loading slider 117 can be pulled back again to the position shown in FIG. 3A to load the next dart 170 from drum 105 into the firing position, and pushed forward again by pushing the loading slider 117. Figure 4A The firing position is shown.

[0111] 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 portion 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).

[0112] The various configurations of the above-described features will be disclosed and described in the accompanying drawings. Similar elements will be indicated by corresponding reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0113] Figure 6 An exemplary embodiment of the nozzle 103 is depicted, wherein the nozzle 103 extends forward toward the barrel interface section 165 without the inserted drum 105, for illustrating the extension of the nozzle 103. As shown, the nozzle 103 includes an O-ring 303.

[0114] Figure 7 yes Figure 1-5The exploded view of the drum magazine 105 shown illustrates, in exploded form, its front element 105a with dart holder 205, spring assemblies 215a-e, and rear element 105b. According to one exemplary embodiment, each spring assembly 215a-e combines six (6) S-shaped springs 140 into a single element having three (3) fastener openings (2150e) for attachment—via corresponding fasteners, such as screws, etc.—to the corresponding fastener opening at the rear of the front element 105a (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 10 2150b and 2155c (see also Figure 8D). Figure 7 As shown, the rear element 105b has five (5) fastener openings 1055b for attachment—for attachment to corresponding fastener openings 1055a on the rear of the front element 105a via corresponding fasteners, such as screws, etc. Figure 10 ).

[0115] Figure 8A This is a front view of the Drum 105. Figure 8B This is a side view of the drum magazine 105, Figure 8C is... Figure 8A Figure 8D is a partial cross-sectional rear view of the drum 105 along line AA. Figure 8A -8D shows Figure 7 The assembly configuration of the components shown, and how the hook-shaped element (1405) extends into each dart holder 205 as a rear stop for the loaded dart 170, while allowing the nozzle 103 to pass through the dart holder 205.

[0116] Figure 9A An exemplary embodiment of the spring assembly 215 is depicted, showing a side view of its S-shaped spring 140 to depict the hook-shaped element 1405, the front surface 1410, and the rear surface 1415.

[0117] Figure 9B Depicting and Figure 2 and Figure 7 - An exemplary embodiment of the spring assembly 215 containing six S-shaped springs 140, corresponding to Figure 8D.

[0118] Figure 10 An exemplary embodiment of the drum magazine 105 is depicted, wherein the rear element 105b (front view) is detached from the front element 105a (rear view), in which spring assemblies 215a-e are attached, and foam darts 170 are inserted into some of the dart holders 205. Figure 10 As shown, the front element 105a includes five (5) fastener openings 1055a through which fasteners pass to attach the rear element 105b to the front element. Figure 10Three (3) fastener openings (2150b) for each spring assembly 215a-e are also shown, as well as fasteners (2155c) that have been inserted into assemblies 215a and 215c-e to attach them to the front element 105a.

[0119] Figure 11 The downward bending of the hook-shaped element 1405 adapted to the nozzle 103 and the S-shaped spring 140 are shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0120] Figure 12 The image depicts a rear view of the assembled drum magazine 105, showing the downward bending of the hook-shaped element 1405 to fit the nozzle 103 (as shown). Figure 6 (As shown) The dart holder 205 is inserted through the rear of the drum 105.

[0121] Figure 13A is an exploded view of a drum 1050 according to an alternative exemplary embodiment, wherein an S-shaped spring 1400 for each dart holder 205 is independently coupled to the drum 1050. As shown in Figure 13A, unlike each spring assembly 215a-e which contains six (6) springs 140, 30 individual springs 1400 can be coupled into the front element 1050a by inserting the bottom portion 1420 of each spring 1400 into a corresponding slot 1520 (see Figure 14C) in the front element 1050a. Therefore, the rear element 1050b includes a ring 1020 for supporting and holding the bottom portion 1420 in place when the drum 1050 is assembled, as each bottom portion 1420 of spring 1400 is inserted into a corresponding slot (not shown) in the front element 1050a.

[0122] Figure 13B is a close-up side view of a single spring 1400 according to this alternative embodiment, including the bottom portion 1420 in the aforementioned front element 1050a for insertion into the drum 1050. As shown in Figure 13B, each spring 1400 also includes a corresponding hook-shaped element 1405, a front surface 1410, and a tail inclined surface 1415, which operate similarly to the spring 140 described above.

[0123] Figure 14A This is a front view of the Drum 1050. Figure 14B This is a side view of the 1050 drum magazine; Figure 14C is... Figure 14A Figure 14D is a partial cross-sectional rear view of the drum 1050 along line AA.

[0124] Figure 14A-1Figure 4D illustrates the assembly configuration of the components shown in Figures 13A and 13B, and how the hook-shaped element (1405) extends into each dart holder 205 as a rear stop for the loaded dart 170, while allowing the nozzle 103 to pass through the dart holder 205. As shown in Figure 14C, the bottom portion 1420 of each spring 1400 is inserted into a corresponding slot 1520 in the front element 1050a of the drum 1050, while the ring 1020 on the rear element 1050b abuts against the rear end of the bottom portion 1420 of the spring 1400 to hold them in place when the drum 1050 is assembled.

[0125] Figure 15 This is an exploded view of a drum magazine 1505 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, showing in exploded form a front element 1505a having a dart holder 205, a single spring assembly 215, and a rear element 105b. As... Figure 15 As shown, instead of the five (5) spring assemblies 215a-e each containing six (6) S-shaped springs 140, a single assembly 215 containing all thirty (30) springs 140 can be used. According to this embodiment, a simplified construction of the front element 1505a is provided, wherein only five (5) fastener openings are required at the rear of the front element 1505a to accommodate the five (5) fastener openings 2150 of the assembly 215 for attachment—by appropriate fasteners, such as screws, etc.—instead of the fifteen (15) corresponding fastener openings required at the rear position of the front element 105a (see [link to previous embodiment]). Figure 10 2150b and 2155c (see also Figure 8D). Figure 15 As shown, the rear element 105b in the drum 1505 is basically the same as the rear element in the drum 105.

[0126] Figure 16A This is a front view of the drum magazine 1505. Figure 16B This is a side view of the 1505 drum magazine. Figure 16C yes Figure 16A Sectional view along line AA in the middle. Figure 16D This is a partial cross-sectional rear view of the drum magazine 1505.

[0127] Figure 16A-16D It shows Figure 15 The assembly configuration of the components shown, and how the hook-shaped element (1405) extends into each dart holder 205 as a rear stop for the loaded dart 170, while allowing the nozzle 103 to pass through the dart holder 205, are illustrated above and referenced. Figure 16DThe front element 1505a of the drum 1505 has a simplified structure with five (5) fastener openings for fitting fastener openings 2150 on the spring assembly 215, which are radially aligned with five (5) fastener openings for fitting receiving fastener openings 1055b on the rear element 105b.

[0128] Next, we will refer to Figures 17-21 An alternative exemplary embodiment of a magazine or magazine rack assembly 1705 that replaces the magazine drum 105 is described. Figure 17 A launcher 1000 is shown, which includes a vertically arranged elongated magazine 1705, in place of... Figure 1 The launcher 100 shown has a drum 105. The launcher 1000 is otherwise substantially similar to the launcher 100, and similar elements with the same reference numerals will not be described again.

[0129] like Figure 17 As shown, the magazine 1705 includes a double-forked spring element 1740, which functions similarly to the spring element 140 in the drum magazine 105—the upper fork of the top spring element 1740 bends downward to make room for the nozzle 103 to connect to the barrel inlet section 165 when the chamber slide 117 is in the forward position. Similar to spring 140, the double-forked spring 1740 may be made of an elastic thermoplastic material. In embodiments, other suitable elastic materials may be used to provide the spring 1740 with the necessary flexibility as the nozzle 103 extends through the magazine 1705, such as... Figure 17 As shown, it can bend away from the dart holder 205 ( Figure 20B and Figure 20C ), and can return to its original configuration as a dart holder 205 located in the magazine 1705. Figure 18C The air nozzle 103 is used to hold the dart 170 at the back stop (or stop). In this embodiment, since the spring 1740 can be completely removed from the dart holder 205, the diameter of the air nozzle 103 can be maximized, thereby increasing the launching force of the dart 170.

[0130] Figure 18A This is based on exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 17 A schematic partial cross-sectional side view of the magazine 1705 shown. Figure 18A As shown, the magazine 1705 includes ten (10) integrated dart holders 205 arranged along a plane, each dart holder being sized to accommodate foam darts 170 used with the launcher 1000. Figure 17 And nozzle 103 extends through it to connect to barrel interface section 165, as in Figure 18AAs shown. Without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the magazine may contain different numbers of dart holders 205 and / or different rows of dart holders 205 – or in a horizontal or other arrangement.

[0131] In addition, such as Figure 18A As shown in -C, the double fork spring 1740 (also as...) Figure 17 (As shown), each is configured for two dart holders 205 and anchored to the magazine 1705 via fasteners, such as screws, through fastener openings 1745. Each fork in the double-fork spring 1740 includes rear hooks 1405a and 1405b (see...). Figure 18B ), used to hold the dartball 170, with rear hooks 1405a and 1405b bent downwards and upwards respectively (see Figure 20B and 20C This allows the nozzle 103 to extend through the corresponding dart holder 205. (e.g.) Figure 18B As shown, each fork of spring 1740 also includes corresponding hook elements 1405a and 1405b, forward surfaces 1410a and 1410b, and rear ramps 1415a and 1415b that operate similarly to those in spring 140 described above. When nozzle 103 extends forward through the corresponding dart holders 205 corresponding to hook elements 1405a and 1405b, hook elements 1405a and 1405b are bent away from their respective dart holders 205 by nozzle 103.

[0132] Figure 19 This is a partial cross-sectional side view of the launcher 1000, whose configuration corresponds to Figure 3A described above regarding the launcher 100. Except for the magazine 105 and its propulsion mechanism, the operation of the launcher 1000 is essentially the same when the user pulls back the chambering slide 117; therefore, the air piston assembly of the launcher 1000 will not be described again. Figure 19 As shown, as the user pulls the chambering slider 117 backward, the piston cylinder 101 moves backward, causing the nozzle 103 to retract from the magazine 1705, thereby making room for the magazine 1705 to advance to the position of the next dart 170.

[0133] Figure 20A This is a partial cross-sectional side view of transmitter 1000, the configuration of which corresponds to the description of transmitter 100 above. Figure 4A .like Figure 20AAs shown, when the loading slide 117 returns to the forward position, the magazine 1705 is advanced upwards to the next dart holder 205 via a propulsion mechanism (not shown) connected to the loading slide 117. Essentially synchronously, the nozzle 103 is pulled forward and passes through the next dart holder 205, pushing the next dart 170-1 held therein forward into the cartridge interface section 165, operating in the same manner as described above. Figure 4A The transmitter 100 shown is similar. Figure 20B It corresponds to Figure 20A A partially enlarged side view illustration of the nozzle 103 of the dart-catching holder 205 of the dart-shaped projectile 170-1 as shown. Figure 20B A close-up view is also provided, showing the hermetic seal formed by the O-ring 303 between the nozzle 103 and the launch tube interface section 165, similar to that of the launcher 100, and showing the hook-shaped element 1045b bent upwards to make room for the nozzle 103. In contrast, Figure 20C This is a close-up view showing the hook-shaped element 1045a bending downwards to make room for the nozzle 103, which corresponds to Figure 17 The configuration shown is one where the user has fired dart 170-1 and pulled the chamber slide 117 again to prepare for loading the next dart 170. Therefore, as the magazine 1705 advances to the next dart, the hook elements 1045a and 1045b of the spring 1740 in the magazine 1705 alternately make way for the nozzle 103.

[0134] Figure 21 The diagram illustrates the docking between the rear of the trigger assembly 320 and the locking plate 315 of the launcher 1000 during trigger pull. Figure 21 The operation of the launcher 1000 shown firing dart 170-1 is the same as described above. Figure 5 The transmitter 100 shown operates in a basically similar manner. Therefore, similar elements with the same reference numerals will not be described again.

[0135] 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 / 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), in which 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.

[0136] 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 container comprising a plurality of projectile holders, each projectile holder configured to receive a loaded projectile, wherein the projectile container includes a plurality of resilient projectile stops, each resilient projectile stop abutting against a portion of a projectile loaded in a corresponding projectile holder; Suitable for forward and backward moving chamber slides; and A housing having: Launch tube; An air piston assembly comprising an air piston cylinder having an air nozzle disposed at its front, a plunger element, and a compression spring; The projectile container, launch tube, and air piston assembly are all connected to the upper chamber sliding component; Specifically, when the loading slide moves from the forward position to the rearward position: the front part of the air piston cylinder moves rearward and pushes the plunger element to compress the compression spring against the rear wall of the housing, wherein the plunger element and the compression spring are held in place by a latching mechanism, and... The projectile propulsion mechanism engages with the projectile container and propels the next projectile holder, which contains the loaded projectile, to the firing position in front of the air piston cylinder; Specifically, when the upper chamber slide moves from the rearward position to the forward position: the front part of the air piston cylinder moves forward, forming an inner air chamber between the front part of the air piston cylinder and the plunger element, and... The air nozzle moves forward, forming an airtight seal between the air piston cylinder and the launch cylinder; The front part of the air nozzle is engaged with the rear surface of one of multiple elastic projectile stops. During the engagement with the front of the air nozzle, one of the plurality of resilient projectile stops bends outward to allow the front of the air nozzle to extend through the next projectile retainer. The air nozzle at the front pushes the projectile loaded in the next projectile holder from the next projectile holder into the launch tube. The front part of the air nozzle is connected to the launch tube, forming an airtight seal between the air piston tube and the launch tube.

2. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The front of the air nozzle pushes the loaded projectile from the next projectile holder into the firing position located in front of the airtight seal between the launch tube and the air piston tube.

3. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 1, wherein, The plunger element is sized to form an airtight seal with the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

4. The toy projectile launcher as described in claim 3, wherein, The plunger element includes a resilient O-ring to form an airtight seal between the plunger element and the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

5. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 3, characterized in that, An elastic ring is attached to the inner surface of the air piston cylinder, and the elastic ring forms an airtight seal between the plunger element and the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

6. The toy projectile launcher as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of elastic projectile stops include a plurality of S-shaped cantilever springs.

7. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 1, wherein, A latch assembly is connected between the plunger element and the trigger assembly, wherein the trigger assembly is adapted to be pulled back by the user of the toy projectile launcher.

8. The toy projectile launcher as described in claim 7, characterized in that, 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.

9. The toy projectile launcher as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The projectiles were foam darts.

10. A toy projectile launcher, comprising: A projectile container comprising a plurality of projectile holders, each projectile holder configured to receive a loaded projectile, wherein the projectile container includes a plurality of resilient projectile stops, each resilient projectile stop abutting against a portion of a projectile loaded in a corresponding projectile holder; Suitable for forward and backward moving chamber slides; and A housing having: Launch tube; The launch tube interface section connected to the launch tube; and An air piston assembly comprising an air piston cylinder having an air nozzle disposed at its front, a plunger element, and a compression spring; The projectile container, launch tube, and 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 front of the air piston cylinder moves rearward and pushes the plunger element to compress the compression spring against the rear wall of the housing. The plunger element and the compression spring are held in place by a latching mechanism. The projectile propulsion mechanism engages with the projectile container and propels the next projectile holder, which contains the loaded projectile, to the firing position in front of the air piston cylinder; Specifically, when the loading slider moves from the rearward position to the forward position: The front part of the air piston cylinder moves forward, forming an inner air chamber between the front part of the air piston cylinder and the plunger element, and... The front part of the air nozzle forms an airtight connection with the launch tube through an airtight seal between the launch tube interface section and the front part of the air nozzle. The front part of the air nozzle is engaged with the rear surface of one of multiple elastic projectile stops. During the engagement with the front of the air nozzle, one of the plurality of resilient projectile stops bends outward to allow the front of the air nozzle to extend through the next projectile retainer. The front of the air nozzle pushes the projectile loaded in the next projectile holder into the launch tube from the next projectile holder.

11. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 10, characterized in that, The front of the air nozzle pushes the loaded projectile from the next projectile holder into the firing position in the launch tube interface section, located in front of the airtight seal between the launch tube interface section and the air piston.

12. The toy projectile launcher as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The launch tube interface section has a rounded taper at its rear inner edge.

13. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 12, characterized in that, The air nozzle is fitted with an O-ring surrounding its outer periphery, wherein the O-ring of the air nozzle forms a seal around the inner periphery of the launch tube interface section.

14. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 10, characterized in that, The plunger element is sized to form an airtight seal with the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

15. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 14, characterized in that, The plunger element includes a resilient O-ring to form an airtight seal between the plunger element and the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

16. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 14, characterized in that, An elastic ring is attached to the inner surface of the air piston cylinder, and the elastic ring forms an airtight seal between the plunger element and the inner surface of the air piston cylinder.

17. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 10, wherein, The plurality of elastic projectile stops include a plurality of S-shaped cantilever springs.

18. The toy projectile launcher according to claim 10, wherein, A latch assembly is connected between the plunger element and the trigger assembly, wherein the trigger assembly is adapted to be pulled back by the user of the toy projectile launcher.

19. The toy projectile launcher as claimed in claim 18, characterized in that, 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.

20. The toy projectile launcher as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The projectiles were foam darts.

21. A magazine for use with a projectile launcher having a launch tube, an air piston tube, and an air nozzle, said magazine comprising: The front element includes a plurality of projectile retainers, each of which is configured to retain a projectile; Rear components; as well as Multiple elastic projectile stops, each elastic projectile stop corresponding to one of multiple projectile retainers. Each elastic projectile stop has a front surface that is at least partially located within the corresponding projectile holder and abuts against and directly contacts the rear surface of the projectile held within the projectile holder in order to retain the projectile within the corresponding projectile holder. Each of the multiple projectile holders has a front opening and a rear opening through which the air nozzle of the projectile launcher can extend. Each resilient ejection stop has a rear surface configured to engage with an air nozzle and, upon engagement, bend away from the corresponding projectile retainer to allow the air nozzle to extend through the respective projectile retainer, ejecting the projectile from the retainer and into the launch tube of the projectile launcher. The outer diameter of the air nozzle is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the corresponding projectile retainer to maintain an airtight seal between the launch tube and the air piston tube.

22. The drum magazine of claim 21, further comprising: At least one notch is incorporated on the rear component, the notch being adapted to engage with a hook-shaped element of the projectile launcher's propulsion block. When the hook-shaped element and the notch engage, the drum rotates to advance the next projectile holder into the firing position within the projectile launcher.

23. The magazine as claimed in claim 21, further comprising a plurality of spring assemblies, each spring assembly anchoring one or more of a plurality of elastic projectile stops to the magazine.

24. The drum magazine according to claim 21, wherein, The plurality of elastic projectile stops are made of elastic thermoplastic material.

25. The drum magazine according to claim 21, wherein, The multiple elastic projectile stops are S-shaped cantilever springs.

26. The drum magazine of claim 21, wherein the drum magazine is detachable from the projectile launcher.

27. The drum magazine as claimed in claim 21, wherein, The projectiles were foam darts.

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