Recoilless automatic firearm

Abstract

An automatic recoilless firearm includes a barrel (100, 600) and a compensating mass launch tube (102, 616) in which a projectile is accelerated in one direction within the barrel (100, 600) and is counteracted by a compensating mass accelerated in the opposite direction within the compensating mass launch tube (102, 616) to minimize recoil and further provide for automatic ammunition handling. The firearm also includes one or more bolts (604, 620) and a barrel configured to reduce or eliminate the transfer of momentum and mechanical energy to the barrel and / or the firearm body (610) during operation of the firearm.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 661,499, entitled “Recoilless Automatic Firearm,” filed April 29, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to ordnance, ammunition, and firearms. In particular, this disclosure relates to recoil-reduced and recoilless firearms. Background Technology

[0004] When operating a firearm, the weapon holder must provide and maintain aim. Therefore, the momentum and mechanical energy transferred from the firearm during firing must be absorbed and canceled out by the weapon holder. Meeting this requirement is challenging for firearm operators, especially those not firmly anchored to the ground. Therefore, ideally, the amount of energy transferred during firing should be minimized.

[0005] The primary source of momentum and mechanical energy is the recoil generated when a bullet is fired. Previous patents have disclosed a device that can eliminate recoil from bullet firing while providing automatic operation. Unfortunately, the automatic operation of a firearm also generates recoil that needs to be further reduced or eliminated, which is the goal of some example embodiments.

[0006] For automatic firearms, the reciprocating motion of the bolt assembly is a significant source of momentum and mechanical energy, typically comparable in magnitude to the momentum and mechanical energy generated during the firing of a cartridge. For example, during the firing of a typical firearm, the bolt assembly is driven backward, aiding in the ejection of spent cartridge cases during the recoil phase of the reciprocating motion. However, at the end of the recoil phase, the bolt assembly strikes its physical stop, transferring momentum and at least some kinetic energy to the gun body, resulting in rearward motion and often accompanied by a sharp muzzle rise. The returning bolt assembly then feeds a round into the chamber and prepares the firearm for subsequent firing. At the end of this feeding phase, the bolt assembly strikes the barrel, again transferring momentum and mechanical energy to the barrel and gun body, producing forward motion and often accompanied by a sharp muzzle drop. These vibrations, along with the transferred momentum and mechanical energy, reduce the aiming and controllability of the firearm and therefore need to be beneficially reduced or eliminated.

[0007] Another important source is the momentum and mechanical energy imparted to the barrel during firing. For example, in recoil-operated firearms systems, the barrel absorbs the momentum and mechanical energy generated during firing and reciprocates in a manner similar to the bolt assembly. It is also necessary to reduce or eliminate the transmission of this mechanical motion to the firearm to improve firing accuracy and ease of operation. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The following description includes a discussion of the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure by way of example. The drawings should be understood as examples and not as limitations. In this specification, references to "one or more embodiments" should be understood as describing a particular feature, structure, or characteristic in an implementation of at least one inventive subject matter. Therefore, phrases such as "in one embodiment" or "in an alternative embodiment" appearing herein describe various embodiments and implementations of the inventive subject matter and do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. However, they are not necessarily mutually exclusive. For easy identification of any particular element or action discussed, the most prominent number in the reference numerals refers to the figure number in which that element or action is first introduced.

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a recoilless device for firearms constructed based on some example embodiments.

[0010] Figure 2A-2C This is a schematic example of a semi-elongated circular ammunition cartridge used for firing compensating mass. Figure 2A Includes a 3D and top view of the ammunition cartridge. Figure 2B It is a cross-sectional view. Figure 2C This is a schematic cross-sectional view of another ammunition cartridge constructed based on some example embodiments.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a loading chamber and a compensating mass launch tube, wherein the loading chamber is connected to the compensating mass launch tube.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a top-down schematic diagram of an example loading chamber, showing the carrier slider at the ammunition loading, firing, and unloading positions.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a recoilless device for firearms constructed based on some example embodiments.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an example of an automatic recoilless firearm constructed based on some example embodiments.

[0015] Figures 7A-7C A schematic description of an example of a launch cycle according to some example embodiments is shown. Figure 7A The configuration of the firearm in a ready-to-fire state is shown according to some example embodiments. Figure 7B It shows the gun nearing the end of its feeding phase. Figure 7C It shows the configuration of the firearm near the end of the recoil / ejection phase.

[0016] Figures 8A-8C A schematic description of an example of a launch cycle according to some example embodiments is shown. Figure 8AIt shows the configuration of the firearms when they are in a ready-to-fire state. Figure 8B The demonstration showed the firearm nearing the end of its feeding phase before aiming and firing. Figure 8C It shows the configuration of the gun at the end of the ammunition ejection phase and the feeding phase of the compensating ammunition after the gun is approached for aiming.

[0017] Figures 9A-9E A schematic description of an example of a launch cycle according to some example embodiments is shown. Figure 9A The firearms are shown in their configuration at the start of a firing cycle. Figure 9B The image shows the configuration of the firearm shortly after aiming and firing the compensating cartridges simultaneously. Figure 9C The configuration shown is near the end of the recoil / explosion phase. Figure 9D It shows the configuration where both the aiming and compensating barrels are nearing the end of the feeding phase. Figure 9E The demonstration showed the configuration of the firearms with the aiming and compensation cartridges fired almost simultaneously before the two barrels reach their respective bolts.

[0018] Figure 10A-10D A top perspective view shows a schematic description of an example of a launch cycle according to some preferred embodiments. Figure 10A The weapon configuration at the start of the firing cycle is depicted. Figure 10B The image shows the firearm configuration shortly after the aiming cartridge is fired. Figure 10C The image shows the configuration of the firearm shortly after the firing of the compensating cartridge. Figure 10D The firearm configuration is depicted near the end of the ejection phase in both barrels.

[0019] Figure 11 A flowchart of a method for operating a recoilless firearm according to some example embodiments is shown.

[0020] The following is a description of certain details and implementations, including a description of the accompanying drawings, which may depict some or all of the embodiments described below, as well as other potential embodiments or implementations discussing the inventive concepts presented herein. An overview of embodiments of this disclosure is provided below, followed by a more detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0021] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for purposes of explanation, to provide an understanding of various embodiments of the subject matter of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments of the subject matter of the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In general, well-known examples of instructions, structures, and techniques are not necessarily shown in detail.

[0022] like Figure 1As shown, the embodiment includes a barrel 100 and a compensating mass firing tube 102, both pointing in opposite directions and supported substantially coaxially to each other by a fixing device 104 at least during firing. Here, coaxiality refers to the geometric alignment of the axes of the barrel and tube being coincident in a straight line. The barrel and firing tube are open at their respective breech and muzzle ends. Sufficient space is allocated between the breech ends such that, at least during the duration of breech loading and / or unloading and / or during the duration of ammunition firing, both the barrel and firing tube can accommodate breech loading and / or unloading and ammunition detonation. A compensating mass loading chamber 106 is also fixedly connected to the breech end of the firing tube 102. The barrel 100 is used to fire a round at a target, while the firing tube 102 is used to provide the required compensating mass movement.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, when loaded, the cartridge 108 is located inside the barrel 100 at the breech end of the barrel 100, while the compensated mass blank cartridge 110 (e.g., a second cartridge, an elongated cartridge, or a blank cartridge) is located inside the loading chamber 106 at the breech end of the tube 102.

[0024] The barrel 100 is equipped with a striking device, such as a hammer 112 (e.g., a striking pin, firing pin), and the firing tube 102 is equipped with a hammer 114. Each of the hammers is connected to a trigger. Pulling the trigger causes the firing of the cartridge case and / or pouch by impact ignition. The barrel 100 cooperates with a conventional cartridge case handling and firing mechanism, the structure and operation of which are extensively described in general literature. During firing, high-pressure propellant gas propels the cartridge forward and causes the casting of the cartridge case 108 to expand. This expansion helps to seal the breech end of the barrel 100. Near the end of firing, a recoil power mechanism, including component 116, removes the used cartridge case and loads a new cartridge case. There are many different mechanical methods available for automatic ammunition handling, most of which share the common characteristic that the mechanical motion involved is initiated and powered by firing the firearm. The tube 102 cooperates with an open-chamber cartridge case handling system including a cylindrical hollow portion 118, which is described below.

[0025] The compensated mass blank cartridge 110 is shown. The compensated mass blank cartridge 110 includes a cartridge case 200, whose external geometry is characterized by a semi-oblong shape, consisting of a rectangular prism portion and a semi-cylindrical portion covering the prism portion, wherein the height of the prism is equal to the radius of the semi-cylindrical portion, such as... Figure 2A As shown. The cartridge case 200 also includes a cylindrical hollow portion 202, as shown. Figure 2BAs shown, gunpowder 204 and primer 206 can be contained within a cylindrical hollow portion. The cylindrical hollow portion 118 is also configured to be coaxial with the semi-cylinder. In another preferred embodiment, as... Figure 2C As shown in the diagram, the compensated mass blank cartridge 110 also includes a conventional cylindrical cartridge 208 inserted into the hollow portion. In some example embodiments, the cartridge case 200 is made of a polymer.

[0026] Figure 3 Details of the loading chamber 106 are shown. In a preferred embodiment, the loading chamber 106 includes: a channel opening at two longitudinal ends; a first vertical sidewall 300; a second vertical sidewall 302; a first horizontal sidewall 304; and a second horizontal sidewall 306. A small hole 308 is formed in the sidewall 300 for receiving an impact firing pin. A larger circular opening 310 is formed in the sidewall 302 for fixed connection to the firing tube 102. In some example embodiments, the openings (e.g., the small hole 308, the circular opening 310) and the tube 102 are arranged coaxially. A slotted opening 312 is also formed in the sidewall 304, through which the loading of compensated mass blank cartridge cases 110 from the magazine 314 can be achieved.

[0027] A carrier slider 316 is used for loading and / or unloading ammunition. The slider is slidably longitudinally movable within a channel, carrying a compensated mass blank cartridge 110 (e.g., a semi-elongated cylindrical cartridge) held within a groove 318 laterally formed on a first horizontal surface 320 of the slider. The slider's cross-section is characterized in that its external dimensions are the same as the dimensions of the channel, such that each sidewall surface of the slider is in contact with a corresponding sidewall surface of the channel. The groove 318 is characterized in that its geometry and dimensions are the same as the semi-elongated cylindrical cartridge, such that each sidewall surface loading the cartridge is in contact with a corresponding surface of the groove and the first horizontal sidewall 304 of the channel.

[0028] The groove 318 is also laterally disposed in the slider, such that when in the launch position, the semi-cylindrical portion of the groove 318 is linearly coaxial with the tube 102, thereby forming a closed loading chamber 106.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the channel is longitudinally linear. Therefore, the channel sidewalls are adapted to the ground plane. Consequently, the corresponding surfaces of the slider and the semi-elongated cartridge are planar to maintain continuity. In another preferred embodiment, the channel is longitudinally curved, in which case the corresponding sidewalls of the channel, the slider, and the cartridge are also curved accordingly to maintain continuity.

[0030] Figure 4An example of a loading chamber 106 is depicted, in which a carrier slider 316 is positioned at (I) loading cartridge cases, (II) firing cartridge cases, and (III) unloading spent cartridge cases. A compensating mass blank cartridge case 110 is carried by the slider 316, but is not shown for clarity. At position (I), the slot opening 312 and groove 318 are aligned, and the compensating mass blank cartridge case 110 is laterally inserted into the groove 318. The slider 316, carrying the loaded cartridge case, is then moved to position (II) coaxially aligned with the firing tube 102. The front surface of the compensating mass blank cartridge case 110 contacts the channel sidewall 302, and the rear surface of the cartridge case 110 further contacts the sidewall 300, thereby sealing the breech end of the firing tube 102. After firing, the slider 316 moves to position (III) to eject spent cartridge cases. After the slider 316 is repositioned at position (I), a new cycle can begin. In a preferred embodiment, only one slider is included. Alternatively, multiple sliders can be linked together for faster execution, and multiple sliders can also move in a circular loop.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, an apparatus is provided by which automatic operation, including ammunition handling of the firing tube 102, is initiated and powered by its own recoil. In another preferred embodiment, an apparatus is provided by which automatic operation of the firing tube 102 is initiated and powered by an external power source. In a more preferred embodiment, the firing tube 102 is subordinate to the barrel 100, and an apparatus is provided by which automatic operation of the firing tube is initiated and powered by the recoil of the barrel 100.

[0032] The purpose of the fixing device 104 is to maintain the coaxiality of the barrel and the firing tube. For firing large-caliber, high-impact rounds, the structural integrity requirements of the fixing device may be excessive, and failure to synchronize the ignition of the two separate propellants could result in a catastrophic recoil impact on the weapon holder. On the other hand, for firing smaller-caliber rounds, maintaining structural integrity using existing construction materials is feasible, and relatively minor imbalances caused by occasional firing synchronization failures are tolerable. Relatively large movements along the coaxial axis can be permitted if shock absorption is advantageous. It is well known that severe recoil impacts occur when supersonic rounds and gaseous propellants leave the barrel and / or firing tube at the muzzle point. In a preferred embodiment, the fixing device 104 connects the barrel and firing tube via contacts near the muzzle point and further utilizes a suitable shock-absorbing mechanism included in the fixing device. The shock-absorbing mechanism may include elastomers, springs, and various other shock absorbers. In another preferred embodiment, the barrel / firing tube is also connected via contacts near the breech point to utilize shock absorbers already built into existing firearms.

[0033] The barrel 100 also includes a recoil-reducing muzzle brake, which further reduces the size of the required compensation mass pack and the size of the device required to fire the pack, thereby further reducing the weight of the recoil-free device. Commercially available muzzle brakes can be selected for this purpose.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a recoilless rifle system for a firearm according to some example embodiments. In this embodiment, a first barrel 100 for firing ammunition and a second barrel 500 for firing compensating mass point in opposite directions and are coaxially and breech-to-breech supported by a fixing device 104, at least during firing. Each barrel is open at its respective breech end and muzzle end. In some example embodiments, sufficient space is allocated between the breech ends, at least during the loading and / or unloading period and / or the ammunition firing period, such that an automatic ammunition handling device, including means for breech loading and / or ammunition unloading and ammunition triggering, can cooperate with each barrel. A first cartridge 108 is placed within the first barrel 100 at the breech end and further seals the breech end. A second cartridge or blank cartridge 502 is placed within the second barrel 500 at the breech end and further seals the breech end. A first loader cooperates with the first barrel to provide a loading and / or unloading mechanism for the cartridge case, wherein the loader is typically powered by the recoil generated by the firing of the cartridge case 108. A second loader cooperates with the second barrel to provide a loading and / or unloading mechanism for the cartridge case or blank cartridge case 502, wherein the loader is typically powered by the recoil generated by the firing of the cartridge case or blank cartridge case 502. An ignition device is provided by which the propellant within the cartridge case is ignited substantially simultaneously or with a predetermined time delay. A timing device is provided that provides appropriate means for adjusting the time delay.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, each barrel is associated with a hammer. Each hammer is connected to a trigger. Pulling the trigger causes the cartridge to fire upon impact. Each trigger is operated by an electronic actuator that pulls the trigger upon receiving an electrical pulse. Electronic devices simultaneously or with a predetermined time delay provide electrical pulses to each actuator. In one preferred embodiment, both barrels fire simultaneously. In another preferred embodiment, the firing of the second barrel is time-delayed relative to the first barrel, such that the first cartridge has moved outside the barrel before the second barrel fires.

[0036] Many automatic ammunition handling devices and / or mechanisms are available on the market for firearms, and can be selected for this purpose. In a preferred embodiment, each barrel cooperates with an automatic ammunition loader, wherein the operation of each loader is initiated and powered by the firing of the corresponding barrel. In a more preferred embodiment, the loader operation of the second barrel is subordinate to that of the first barrel and is also initiated and powered by the firing of the first barrel. The first barrel may include a muzzle brake to further reduce its recoil, thereby reducing the size of the second barrel and additionally reducing the size of the second cartridge or blank cartridge.

[0037] Figure 5 The recoilless device shown can utilize currently widely used and proven reliable components. The recoilless device constructed according to this alternative embodiment has the advantage of compatibility with existing logistics. While the device has been described according to what is now considered a preferred embodiment, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of some exemplary embodiments. For example, some embodiments utilizing impact-based ammunition triggering methods have been described. Those skilled in the art will clearly recognize that the device can also be implemented using electrical triggering methods. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all variations falling within the scope of some exemplary embodiments.

[0038] As previously stated, the objective of this embodiment is to provide a recoilless firearm capable of automatically handling and firing ammunition. Another objective is to improve the aiming and controllability of the firearm by reducing or substantially eliminating the transfer of momentum and mechanical energy from the reciprocating bolt assembly to the barrel and receiver; and during firing, from the vibrating barrel to the receiver. This latter objective is the focus of this disclosure.

[0039] In some exemplary embodiments, the firearm device includes a first barrel for firing a cartridge and a second barrel for firing a compensating mass, both pointing in opposite directions and supported coaxially and breech-to-breech by a fixing device, at least during firing. In some exemplary embodiments, each of the barrels is open at its respective breech and muzzle ends. Sufficient space is allocated between the breech ends, at least during the duration of breech loading and / or unloading, and / or during the duration of firing, such that an automatic ammunition handling device, including a breech loading and / or unloading device and an ammunition triggering device, can cooperate with each of the barrels. A first cartridge is placed inside the first barrel at its breech end and further seals the breech end. A second cartridge or blank cartridge is placed inside the second barrel at its breech end and also seals the breech end. Each cartridge contains a corresponding amount of gunpowder, causing each barrel to produce substantially the same amount of recoil. A first loader cooperates with the first barrel to provide a means for loading and / or unloading the first cartridge case, wherein the loader is typically powered by the recoil generated by the firing of the first cartridge case. A second loader cooperates with the second barrel to provide a means for loading / unloading the second cartridge case or blank cartridge case, wherein the loader is typically powered by the recoil generated by the firing of the second cartridge case or blank cartridge case. An ignition device is provided by which the propellant within the cartridge case is ignited substantially simultaneously or with a predetermined time delay.

[0040] Reference Figure 6 As shown in the figure, a sighting barrel 600 and a compensating barrel 616, pointing in opposite directions, are coaxially fixed to a gun body 610 (e.g., a barrel receiver). In some example embodiments, the compensating barrel 616 has a varying inner diameter along its length. A sight cartridge 602 and a compensating blank cartridge 618 are also provided. The sighting and compensating cartridges are configured to produce substantially the same recoil upon firing. Bolts 604 and 620 are configured to collide with each other (e.g., elastic collision, inelastic collision) without encountering stop blocks 628 and 630, respectively. In some example embodiments, a compression spring 606 (e.g., a recoil spring) connects the two bolts. Fixed firing pins 632 and 622 are used. In other embodiments discussed later, movable firing pins are used. Hooks 612 and 626 provide gate control for bolt movement. An electromagnetically operated trigger assembly 614 connected to the hooks provides firing control. Finally, magazines 608 and 624 provide aiming and compensating cartridges, respectively.

[0041] In some exemplary embodiments, the launch period is as follows: Figures 7A-7C As shown. Figure 7AAs shown, the firing cycle begins with the bolts 604 and 620 in their respective bolt-open, ready-to-fire positions. When the hooks 612 and 626 are simultaneously lowered by energizing the trigger assembly 614, the compression spring 606 pushes the bolt 604 toward the aiming barrel 600, loading the cartridge 602 into the chamber. Similarly, at substantially the same moment, the bolt 620 is driven toward the compensating barrel 616, thereby loading the blank cartridge 618. Figure 7B As shown, near the end of the feeding phase, the bolt's retaining firing pin encounters sufficient resistance from the cartridge cases to strike the primer of each cartridge case before the bolt's mass collides with the barrel. This ignites the propellant contained in each cartridge case substantially simultaneously, propelling the cartridge and / or propellant gases toward the corresponding muzzle of the barrel. The recoil of the cartridge cases further drives the bolt back, preventing the transfer of the accelerated bolt's feed kinetic energy to the barrel and receiver. In this Advanced Primer Ignition mode, the transfer of momentum and mechanical energy from the bolt to the barrel is essentially eliminated.

[0042] In the subsequent ejection phase, the recoiling bolt removes and ejects the used cartridge cases from both barrels. (As...) Figure 7C As the phase shown nears its end, the bolts collide, converting some of the recoil energy into heat and reversing their respective directions of travel. If hooks 612 and 626 remain lowered, a new firing cycle begins, powered by the recoil energy and the energy stored in the compression spring 606. If hooks 612 and 626 are raised, the configuration of the two bolts in the bolt-open position (e.g.,...) is complete. Figure 7A The firing is terminated under the condition shown, preparing the firearm for the next firing. Therefore, in this embodiment, momentum or mechanical energy is avoided from being transferred from the bolt to the barrel and receiver throughout the firing cycle. Considering that in a recoil gun system, the recoil momentum and mechanical energy are mainly contained within the reciprocating bolt assembly, when a pre-firing recoil operation mode can be reliably employed, firearms with significantly reduced or essentially no vibration of the barrel and receiver during firing can be constructed according to some example embodiments.

[0043] If the compression spring 606 is strong enough, the bolts may not necessarily collide with each other. In this case, all recoil energy is stored in the compression spring and used to drive the subsequent feeding phase. A movable firing pin can also be used to provide more flexible primer ignition timing control. Furthermore, in some example embodiments, the firearm can be practiced without pre-firing. In some exemplary embodiments, for example, the firearm is configured to securely and completely place the cartridge cases 602 and 618 in their respective barrel chambers in a locked breech operating mode before the propellant is ignited. This facilitates improved ammunition handling reliability in certain situations. Additionally, the firing cycle can begin from either an open or closed bolt configuration. In embodiments without pre-firing, the mechanical energy carried by the bolt during the feeding phase is transferred to the barrel. Some energy transfer is still acceptable because the energy during the feeding phase can be considered only a relatively small portion of the total recoil energy of the system.

[0044] In some example embodiments, to reduce weight and provide more flexible timing control, the bolts 604 and 620 are modified by connecting them together to form a single bolt block 805. Figure 6 and 7A The firearm shown in -7C. In some example embodiments, the weight of the bolt block 805 may be made approximately the same as that of a single bolt 604 or 620. Furthermore, the hook 626 is disabled, and the spring 800 detachably connects the bolt block 805 to the gun body. Figures 8A-8C The configuration of the firearm during the firing cycle in this embodiment is shown. For example... Figure 8A As shown, the cycle begins with the bolt block 805 in the ready-to-fire position with the bolt open. As the hook 810 descends, the bolt block is pulled towards the aiming barrel 600 by the spring 800 until the spring 800 passes through a mechanism (for simplicity) at the end of the feeding phase. Figures 8A-8C (Not shown in the image) disengages from the block 805, and during the feeding phase, feeds the aiming cartridge 602 into the barrel 600, as... Figure 8B As shown. Then, the aiming cartridge is released, and the bullet is fired in a pre-firing mode, during which the transfer of momentum and mechanical energy from the block to the barrel and receiver is essentially eliminated.

[0045] Subsequently, the recoil bolt block 805 removes and ejects the empty aiming cartridge case, and continues to feed the compensating cartridge 618 into the chamber of the compensating barrel 616, as... Figure 8CAs shown. The compensated cartridge is fired again in a pre-firing mode to prevent momentum and mechanical energy from being transferred from the block 805 to the compensated barrel 616 and the receiver. In some example embodiments, if the hook 810 remains lowered, a new firing cycle begins, powered by the recoil energy from the compensated firing. If it is necessary to end firing, the mechanism uses the recoil energy to power the spring 800 and engage it with the bolt block to return the firearm to its normal firing position. Figure 8A The bolt-open configuration is shown. The reciprocating bolt block does not transfer momentum or mechanical energy to the barrel or receiver. Instead, analysis shows that during the firing cycle, the recoil momentum and mechanical energy from aiming and firing are converted into muzzle momentum and energy for subsequent compensation firing, and vice versa.

[0046] It is not always desirable to construct firearms with an open-breech blowback operating mode, partly because it is difficult to remove spent cartridge cases under high barrel pressure. In fact, many firearms in use are based on a locked-breech operating principle. While mechanical energy is inevitably transferred to the locked-breech barrel during firing, further transfer to the gun body can be reduced or avoided. To achieve this, in a preferred embodiment, both the aiming and compensating barrels are slidably mounted on the gun body and further configured to lock the breech with a corresponding bolt to facilitate a locked-breech operating mode. Figures 9A-9E The configuration of the firearm during the firing cycle of this embodiment is depicted. For example... Figure 9A As shown, at the start of the cycle, the aiming cartridge 602 is located within the aiming barrel 600 and the breech is locked by the locking mechanism 902. The barrel is further pressed against the bolt carrier 904 by a compressed compression spring 606. The firing pin 900, located within the aiming bolt 604, is in a ready-to-fire state. Similarly, the compensation corresponding component has a similar configuration. When the firing pins 900 and 910, which are in the ready-to-fire state, are released simultaneously, firing begins, releasing the two cartridges, pushing the cartridge and / or propellant gas toward the corresponding muzzle end within the corresponding barrel, and causing the recoil of the corresponding breech-locked barrel, as shown. Figure 9B As shown.

[0047] Subsequently, locking mechanisms 902 and 918 unlock under the pressure of the safe chamber. The recoil-induced unlocking of the barrels is stopped and held against barrel stoppers 906 and 914 by barrel springs 908 and 916 (e.g., tension springs), while the recoil of bolts 604 and 620 continues, removing and ejecting spent cartridge cases until they collide at the end of the recoil / ejection phase. Figure 9C As shown. In the next feeding phase, as... Figure 9DAs shown, the bolt loads the aiming and compensating cartridges into the corresponding barrels and locks them in the breech, while simultaneously preparing the firing pin for firing. Driven by the feed kinetic energy of the bolt and the energy of the compressed spring 606, the breech-locked barrels move toward their respective bolt catches 904 and 912. If it is necessary to stop firing, the barrels are allowed to reach and remain on their respective bolt catches 904 and 912, preparing the weapon for the next firing, as... Figure 9A As shown. If a new firing cycle is required, the loaded aiming and compensating cartridges are released before the barrel reaches the corresponding bolt carrier. The recoil from firing further separates the barrel from the corresponding bolt carrier, preventing momentum and kinetic energy from being transferred from the barrel to the receiver during the feeding phase. Then, by continuing... Figure 9B Configuration in and from Figure 9B The configuration continues, and the cycle will continue. Throughout the cycle, in addition to... Figure 9C When the recoiling barrels collide with stoppers 906 and 914, respectively, no momentum or mechanical energy is transferred to the gun body. This latter type of energy transfer at the barrel stoppers could be further reduced if stoppers 906 and 914 were not fixed to the gun body, but rather securely connected and slidably mounted within the gun body.

[0048] In another example of the preferred embodiment, to facilitate automatic recoilless firing of high-impact ammunition, the aiming barrel 600 and the compensating barrel 616 are securely connected and slidably mounted on the gun body 610, such as... Figure 10A-10D A simplified schematic diagram is shown. Furthermore, the release time of the compensating cartridge lags behind that of the aiming cartridge to avoid recoil pulse overlap and to ensure that the recoil energy from the aiming firing is converted into muzzle energy for the subsequent compensating firing, thereby eliminating these recoil forces from the weapon system. (See reference...) Figure 10A-10D The above principle is described using the shown launch cycle.

[0049] Figure 10A The firearm configuration at the start of the firing cycle is shown. Both the aiming cartridge 602 and the compensating cartridge 618 are locked in their respective chambers by the breech. For simplicity, the firing pin (not shown) is in a ready-to-fire position, and the connected barrel rests against the bolt cocking position 904 via a barrel spring 908. Figure 10B As shown, firing is initiated by releasing the firing pin, which in turn releases the aiming cartridge. The resulting recoil drives the still breech-locked barrel assembly through the barrel stop 1000. After a sufficiently long time delay to allow the aiming firing recoil energy to be fully converted into the kinetic energy of the recoil barrel assembly, the compensating cartridge is released, causing the resulting compensating recoil to stop the movement of the barrel assembly and allowing the barrel spring 908 to hold the barrel assembly at the barrel stop 1000, as... Figure 10C As shown. At the same time, as Figure 10D As shown, some of the energy from the compensated firing is used to unlock the breech lock of both barrels under safe compensating chamber pressure, and drives the bolt to remove and eject each corresponding used cartridge case, which ultimately collide with each other at the end of the recoil phase. The returning bolt then loads and breech locks the aiming cartridge and compensated cartridge into their respective barrel chambers, and releases the barrel stop 1000 to allow the barrel assembly to return to the bolt carrier 904, as... Figure 10A As shown, this prepares the firearm for the next firing.

[0050] While some exemplary embodiments have been described with reference to the use of cartridge-based ammunition, in other exemplary embodiments, the firearm uses caseless cartridges or partially cased ammunition in one or both barrels. When using caseless or partially cased ammunition, the breech is sealed by the bolt in the case of a longitudinal ammunition insert loader. In some exemplary embodiments, in the case of a side-mounted revolver loader, the breech is sealed by a fixedly closed breech. Caseless or partially cased ammunition can advantageously enable pre-firing operating modes because the case-to-chamber adhesion problem typically associated with cartridge-based ammunition can be mitigated when using caseless ammunition.

[0051] Furthermore, although some embodiments have been described as allowing the bolt and / or barrel to recoil in order to facilitate the automatic operation of the firearm using said recoil motion, those skilled in the art will clearly recognize that the following exemplary embodiments can also be implemented: in blow-forward operation mode, the barrel is allowed to move toward the corresponding muzzle direction while keeping the bolt stationary. In embodiments utilizing the blow-forward operation mode, the muzzle-direction movement of the barrel creates a spatial clearance between the aiming and compensating breech end of the barrel to facilitate the operation of the ammunition loader.

[0052] While these devices have been described according to what are currently considered preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of this novel embodiment. For example, although some embodiments have been described according to ammunition loading / unloading methods utilizing a longitudinal breech insertion mode, those skilled in the art will appreciate that some embodiments are practiced using revolver-style lateral ammunition loading / unloading techniques. Furthermore, although some exemplary embodiments utilize recoil energy transferred from the cartridge case to power the operation of the bolt assembly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that modified versions of the system, such as delayed recoil, recoil operation, gas operation, or externally powered operation modes, can also be applied according to some exemplary embodiments. Additionally, according to some exemplary embodiments, various modifications to the aiming and / or compensating barrel can be used, including but not limited to barrel ports and / or muzzle brakes, and / or rifling and / or flutes that may include compensating rifling. Finally, according to some exemplary embodiments, aiming cartridge cases comprising multiple cartridges, or compensating cartridge cases comprising a single cartridge or a group of cartridges of a smaller diameter, or even liquid cartridges, or compensating cartridge cases identical to aiming cartridge cases, can also be used.

[0053] Figure 11 A flowchart 1100 illustrating a method of operating a recoilless firearm according to some example embodiments is shown. At operation 1105, a first barrel is loaded with a first cartridge. At operation 1110, a second barrel is loaded with a second cartridge. At operation 1115, the gunpowder in the first and second cartridges is ignited by one or more ignition devices. At operation 1120, the gunpowder in the first cartridge causes a bullet (e.g., a projectile) to be guided from the breech end of the first barrel to the muzzle end in a recoilless manner as described above.

[0054] In view of the foregoing disclosure, various examples are described below. It should be noted that, within the scope of the disclosure of this application, one or more features of the examples, individually or in combination, should be considered.

[0055] Example implementation is as follows:

[0056] Example 1. A device comprising:

[0057] A first barrel includes openings at both ends, one of the open ends of the first barrel including a first breech, and the other of the open ends of the first barrel including a first muzzle.

[0058] The second barrel includes openings at both ends, one of the opening ends of the second barrel includes a second breech, the other of the opening ends of the second barrel includes a second muzzle, the second barrel is coaxially aligned with the first barrel, the second breech of the second barrel faces the first breech of the first barrel, and the first breech and the second breech are separated by a gap.

[0059] The first cartridge in the first breech of the first barrel;

[0060] The second cartridge in the second breech of the second barrel;

[0061] An ignition device is configured to ignite the gunpowder in the first cartridge and the second cartridge to fire the first cartridge in the first barrel and the second cartridge in the second barrel.

[0062] Example 2. The device according to Example 1, wherein the ignition device is configured to simultaneously ignite the gunpowder in the first cartridge and the second cartridge.

[0063] Example 3. The device according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the ignition device is configured to ignite the gunpowder in the first and second cartridges when there is a time delay between the ignition of the gunpowder in the first and second cartridges.

[0064] Example 4. The device according to any one of Examples 1-3, wherein the first cartridge includes a projectile and the second cartridge is a blank cartridge.

[0065] Example 5. The device according to any one of Examples 1-4, further comprising:

[0066] The first loader is used to automatically load the cartridge cases into the first barrel.

[0067] Example 6. The device according to any one of Examples 1-5, further comprising:

[0068] The second loader is used to automatically load the cartridge cases into the second barrel.

[0069] Example 7. The device according to any one of Examples 1-6, wherein the first loader includes a first bolt, at least a portion of which is slidably disposed between the first breech and the second breech, and wherein the second loader includes a second bolt, at least a portion of which is slidably disposed between the first bolt and the second breech of the second barrel.

[0070] Example 8. The device according to any one of Examples 1-7, wherein the first bolt and the second bolt are configured to undergo elastic or inelastic collisions with each other during the firing of a bullet.

[0071] Example 9. The device according to any one of Examples 1-8, wherein the second barrel has a varying inner diameter along its length.

[0072] Example 10. The device according to any one of Examples 1-9 further includes a first loader for the first barrel and a second loader for the second barrel, wherein the first loader and the second loader include a common bolt block slidably disposed between a first breech of the first barrel and a second breech of the second barrel.

[0073] Example 11. The device according to any one of Examples 1-10, wherein the common bolt block is used alternately as the bolt of the first loader and the second loader.

[0074] Example 12. The device according to any one of Examples 1-11, wherein the first barrel and the second barrel are slidably disposed on the body of the device, and the ignition device is configured to release the first cartridge and the second cartridge substantially simultaneously.

[0075] Example 13. The device according to any one of Examples 1-12, wherein the first barrel and the second barrel are connected and disposed on the body of the device, and wherein the ignition device is configured to release the first cartridge and the second cartridge with a time delay between releases.

[0076] Example 14. The device according to any one of Examples 1-13, wherein both the first cartridge and the second cartridge include a housing containing propellant, and wherein the first cartridge further includes a projectile fixed to one end of the housing of the first cartridge.

[0077] Example 15. The device according to any one of Examples 1-14, wherein, in response to the ignition device igniting the first and second cartridges, the first cartridge seals the first breech of the first barrel, and the second cartridge seals the second breech of the second barrel.

[0078] Example 16. The device according to any one of Examples 1-15, wherein the first cartridge case comprises a caseless cartridge case, and the first loader of the first barrel comprises a bolt configured to seal the first breech when the first cartridge case is ignited.

[0079] Example 17. The device according to any one of Examples 1-16, wherein the second cartridge comprises a caseless cartridge, and the second loader of the second barrel comprises a bolt configured to seal the second breech when the second cartridge is ignited.

[0080] Example 18. A method comprising:

[0081] The first cartridge is loaded into the first barrel of the firearm device, the first barrel having openings at both ends, one of the open ends of the first barrel including a first breech, and the other of the open ends of the first barrel including a first muzzle.

[0082] A second cartridge is inserted into the second barrel of the firearm device. The second barrel has openings at both ends, one of the open ends of the second barrel including a second breech, and the other open end of the second barrel including a second muzzle. The second barrel is coaxially aligned with the first barrel, and the second breech of the second barrel faces the first breech of the first barrel. The first breech and the second breech are separated by a gap.

[0083] The ignition device of the firearm is used to ignite the first cartridge in the first barrel and the second cartridge in the second barrel.

[0084] Example 19. The method according to Example 18, wherein the ignition device is configured to simultaneously ignite the gunpowder in the first cartridge and the second cartridge.

[0085] Example 20. The method according to Example 18 or 19, wherein the ignition device is configured to ignite the gunpowder in the first and second ammunition cartridges when there is a time delay between the ignition of the gunpowder in the first and second ammunition cartridges.

[0086] In the foregoing detailed description, the subject matter methods and apparatus of the present invention have been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes can be made thereto without departing from the broader scope of the subject matter of the invention. Therefore, this specification and the accompanying drawings should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A recoilless automatic firearm, comprising: A first barrel includes openings at both ends, one of the open ends of the first barrel including a first breech, and the other of the open ends of the first barrel including a first muzzle. The second barrel includes openings at both ends, one of the opening ends of the second barrel includes a second breech, the other of the opening ends of the second barrel includes a second muzzle, the second barrel is coaxially aligned with the first barrel, the second breech of the second barrel faces the first breech of the first barrel, and the first breech and the second breech are separated by a gap. The first cartridge in the first breech of the first barrel; The second cartridge in the second breech of the second barrel; An ignition device is configured to ignite the gunpowder in the first cartridge and the second cartridge to fire the first cartridge in the first barrel and the second cartridge in the second barrel. as well as A first loader for the first barrel and a second loader for the second barrel, wherein the first loader and the second loader include a common bolt block slidably disposed between a first breech of the first barrel and a second breech of the second barrel.

2. The recoilless automatic firearm according to claim 1, wherein the ignition device is configured to simultaneously ignite the gunpowder in the first cartridge and the second cartridge.

3. The recoilless automatic firearm according to claim 1, wherein the ignition device is configured to ignite the gunpowder in the first cartridge and the second cartridge when there is a time delay between the ignition of the gunpowder in the first cartridge and the second cartridge.

4. The recoilless automatic firearm according to claim 1, wherein the first cartridge includes a bullet, and the second cartridge is a blank cartridge.

5. The recoilless automatic firearm according to claim 1, wherein, The second barrel has a varying inner diameter along its length.

6. The recoilless automatic firearm according to claim 1, wherein, The shared bolt block is used alternately as the bolt for the first loader and the second loader.

7. The recoilless automatic firearm of claim 1, wherein the first barrel and the second barrel are slidably disposed on the body of the device, and the ignition device is configured to release the first cartridge and the second cartridge substantially simultaneously.

8. The recoilless automatic firearm of claim 1, wherein the first barrel and the second barrel are connected and disposed on the body of the device, and wherein the ignition device is configured to release the first cartridge and the second cartridge with a time delay between releases.

9. The recoilless automatic firearm according to claim 1, wherein both the first cartridge and the second cartridge include a housing containing propellant, and wherein the first cartridge further includes a projectile fixed to one end of the housing of the first cartridge.

10. The recoilless automatic firearm according to claim 1, wherein, In response to the ignition device igniting the first and second cartridges, the first cartridge seals the first breech of the first barrel, and the second cartridge seals the second breech of the second barrel.

11. The recoilless automatic firearm of claim 1, wherein the first cartridge case comprises a caseless cartridge case, and the first loader of the first barrel comprises a bolt configured to seal the first breech when the first cartridge case is ignited.

12. The recoilless automatic firearm of claim 1, wherein the second cartridge comprises a caseless cartridge, and the second loader of the second barrel comprises a bolt configured to seal the second breech when the second cartridge is ignited.

13. A recoilless automatic firearm, comprising: A first barrel includes openings at both ends, one of the open ends of the first barrel including a first breech, and the other of the open ends of the first barrel including a first muzzle. The second barrel includes openings at both ends, one of the opening ends of the second barrel includes a second breech, the other of the opening ends of the second barrel includes a second muzzle, the second barrel is coaxially aligned with the first barrel, the second breech of the second barrel faces the first breech of the first barrel, and the first breech and the second breech are separated by a gap. The first cartridge in the first breech of the first barrel; The second cartridge in the second breech of the second barrel; An ignition device is configured to ignite the gunpowder in the first cartridge and the second cartridge to fire the first cartridge in the first barrel and the second cartridge in the second barrel. A first loader is used to automatically load cartridges into the first barrel; as well as The second loader is used to automatically load the cartridge cases into the second barrel; Wherein, the first loader includes a first bolt, at least a portion of which is slidably disposed between the first breech and the second breech, and wherein the second loader includes a second bolt, at least a portion of which is slidably disposed between the first bolt and the second breech of the second barrel; The first and second bolts are configured to undergo elastic or inelastic collisions during the firing of the bullet.

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