Multi-tube grenade for a toy launcher

Abstract

Toy grenade (100) for firing a large number of projectiles at once, which a cylindrical sleeve (10) comprising several circumferentially arranged receiving cylinders (13), and has several circumferentially arranged extensions, via which the extensions are configured to attach a flexible rubber ring, wherein each of the extensions has an inwardly angled guide section (142) which allows the rubber ring to bend inwards when it is moved towards the remote ends of the guide sections (142).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 355,155, filed June 24, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Hand grenades are common weapons in modern warfare. They are small explosive devices typically thrown by hand. Some grenades use a rocket propulsion system, similar to mortars. These devices are typically thrown into a predetermined area and then explode. However, the present invention does not relate to hand grenades, but rather to a multi-tube toy grenade (e.g., an airsoft 40mm gas and CO2 grenade, known as an "airsoft grenade") that simulates the action of a shotgun. It is used to throw several pre-loaded simulated ammunition rounds. The multi-tube grenade is gas-propelled and can fire all the ammunition rounds at once in a general direction. These rounds disperse slightly during firing and flight, scattering them across an impact area upon impact.Anything within the impact zone will be hit by some of the ammunition. After refilling with ammunition, the cartridge or canister can be quickly reloaded into a toy launcher (e.g., the toy bullet launcher described in EP patent EP2573499B1) and reused.

[0003] The present invention can be used with any non-lethal projectile, including, but not limited to, airsoft BBs and paintballs. A conventional multi-barrel grenade (e.g., a grenade structure described in US Patent US8517005B2) on the market suitable for use with a toy launcher typically includes a projectile compartment (having circumferentially arranged cylinders arranged such that each of the receiving cylinders can receive and contain BBs or paintballs via a front opening); a gas-fed storage chamber; an actuating rod assembly; a few activation elements (e.g., primers); and a rubber ring fixedly disposed in a circumferential trough (i.e., a groove described in US Patent US10443970B2) adjacent the front openings of each of the circumferentially arranged cylinders.With the toy launcher, the grenade can then fire all projectiles at the same time.

[0004] Unfortunately, loading a large number of BBs into multi-barrel grenades is time-consuming. Each time, sufficient pressure is required to push the BB past the rubber ring next to the front openings. If the grenade has 10 receiving cylinders, each cylinder capable of holding multiple BBs, the user must repeat the process several times in succession. A device that can facilitate reloading such grenades would be of great benefit.

[0005] Furthermore, after loading a large number of BBs into conventional grenades, the user cannot safely unload the BBs because the fixed rubber ring blocks the BBs and prevents them from falling. The user has no choice but to unload the BBs by pulling the trigger and releasing the compressed air in the gas-fed storage chamber, which ejects all the BBs contained within. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention relates to a toy grenade designed to fire a large number of projectiles simultaneously, and to a toy grenade capable of discharging the projectiles when needed. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention provides another type of toy grenade for firing a large number of projectiles at once, comprising a cylindrical sleeve, the cylindrical sleeve including a plurality of receiving cylinders and a circumferential extension, the circumferential extension having a retaining portion extending around a centerline to provide an annular surface for slidably mounting a flexible rubber ring. The flexible rubber ring blocks and prevents the projectiles from falling only when it is near the rear end (near the front openings of the cylinders). Since the rubber ring is not provided in a fixed position, the user can slide the rubber ring toward the far end (the term "far" means toward the front, away from the cylinders) and then discharge all the projectiles as needed.

[0008] The invention, in another embodiment, relates to a toy grenade for firing a large number of projectiles at once, comprising a cylindrical shell containing a plurality of circumferentially arranged receiving cylinders and a plurality of circumferentially arranged projections, over which the projections are configured to slidably mount the flexible rubber ring. The plurality of circumferentially arranged projections extend substantially around a central axis to define a bore opening through which a rubber ring contact surface (or other switching arrangements) can be movably mounted therein, since a plurality of gaps are present between the plurality of circumferentially arranged projections.

[0009] The invention relates, in a further embodiment, to a toy grenade for firing a large number of projectiles at once, comprising a cylindrical sleeve containing a central bore around which a plurality of circumferentially arranged receiving cylinders are configured to enable each of the cylinders to receive projectiles, the cylindrical sleeve further comprising a plurality of circumferentially arranged retaining portions adjacent to each of the front openings of the cylinders, said retaining portions extending around a centerline to provide a discontinuous annular surface for the attachment of a flexible rubber ring, the rubber ring being easily replaced by the user if desired.

[0010] In a further embodiment, the invention relates to the toy grenade further comprising a storage chamber which is in communication with the cylindrical sleeve and which is delimited by a first inner edge and a second inner edge at its front and rear ends, respectively; an actuating rod assembly which is hollow and received in a central bore of the cylindrical sleeve and comprises an air inlet tube arranged at its front end, wherein the air inlet tube has a front end forming an air inlet opening and a rear end to which a front radial extension and a rear radial extension are attached, wherein an air outlet opening is formed between the front radial extension and the rear radial extension, wherein the front radial extension and the rear radial extension each have a peripheral surface around which a sealing ring is attached,to engage the sealing rings with the first inner edge and the second inner edge of the storage chamber to hermetically seal the storage chamber, wherein the front radial extension has a smaller flange at the front than a wider flange at the rear to limit rearward movement of the actuating rod assembly when the compressed air in the storage chamber is released.

[0011] Pressurized air is supplied through the air inlet port of the air inlet tube, and the compressed air is exhausted through the air outlet port to collect in the storage chamber. Upon ignition, a trigger of a toy launcher is structured to move the actuating rod assembly rearward to disengage the front radial extension from the first inner edge of the storage chamber, releasing the pressurized air in the storage chamber to immediately eject the BB bullets housed in the cylindrical casing. These and other objects of the present invention will no doubt become apparent to those skilled in the art after reading the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment illustrated in the various figures and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1A-1C illustrate a circumferentially disposed extension defining an annular surface for slidingly mounting a flexible rubber ring. Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B illustrate a cylindrical sleeve configured to allow the flexible rubber ring to bend inward when pushed toward the front ends during the firing process. Fig. 3A-3C illustrate a reloading method in accordance with specific embodiments. Fig. 4 illustrates a loading device designed to load a substantial number of BBs simultaneously into each receiving cylinder of the cylindrical shell. Fig. 5A-5G illustrate another embodiment that provides a plurality of circumferentially arranged projections defining a discontinuous annular surface for receiving and retaining the rubber ring. Fig. 6A-6H illustrate another embodiment with a ring contact surface used to move the rubber ring to preferred locations. Fig. 7A-7H illustrate another embodiment in which a switching assembly can axially move the ring contact surface relative to the cylindrical sleeve between preferred locations. Fig. 8A-8J illustrate an actuating rod arrangement that does not obstruct the ring contact surface during the firing process. Fig. 9A-9L illustrate various BB loading devices in accordance with different embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods and components have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.

[0013] It should also be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used here to describe different elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a Fig. 7E may be referred to as a second body, and similarly, a second body could be referred to as a first body without departing from the scope of the present invention. The terminology used herein in the description of the invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Airsoft pellets (also called BBs), for example, are spherical projectiles (made of plastic) used in airsoft weapons. Hereinafter, they are all referred to as "BB bullets" or "BBs," but this is not intended to be a limitation of the invention.

[0014] As used in the description of the invention and the appended claims, the singular forms "a" and "an" are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It is also to be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and includes all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It is further to be understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.As used herein, the term "if" may be interpreted as "when" or "at" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting," depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase "when it is determined" or "when [a specified condition or event] is detected" may be interpreted as "upon determining" or "in response to determining" or "upon detecting [the specified condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [the specified condition or event]," depending on the context.

[0015] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1A, the toy grenade 100 consists of a cylindrical casing 10 designed to fire multiple BB bullets (hereinafter referred to simply as "BBs") or paintballs at once. The grenade contains the cylindrical casing 10 and a gas storage chamber 40 that allows gas to be supplied and is capable of firing all the BBs simultaneously. Fig. 1B and Fig. 1C depicts the cylindrical sleeve 10, which includes a plurality of receiving cylinders 13 and a circumferential extension 14 positioned near the inner periphery 101 of the sleeve. The extension 14 extends around the central axis X and is characterized by a retaining portion 141 forming a first annular surface for slidingly positioning a flexible rubber ring 11. Additionally, downstream of the first annular surface is a guide portion 142 angled inwardly relative thereto. This structure allows the sleeve 10 to have a tapered tubular socket, facilitating the sliding attachment of the flexible rubber ring.

[0016] The terms "forward" and "backward" with respect to the cylindrical sleeve 10 refer to the directions toward the front openings 131 and the rear openings 132, respectively. The terms "inside" or "inward" indicate a radial direction toward the central axis X, while "outside" or "outward" indicate a radial direction away from the central axis X.

[0017] In one embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B, the user loads a substantial number of BBs into each receiving cylinder 13 (hereinafter referred to as “cylinder 13”). Subsequently, the flexible rubber ring 11 is mounted on the extension 14. During the firing process (shown in Fig. 8B), the gas pressure accumulates behind all cylinders 13 and enters each cylinder 13 through the rear openings 132. As a result, the BBs push the rubber ring 11 toward the front end of the extension 14. The dimensions of the extension 14 are configured to ensure that the rubber ring 11 does not obstruct the trajectory channels 133 after the firing process. For example, the rubber ring 11 can block and prevent bullets from falling when positioned on the first annular surface (referred to as "location L1") adjacent to the front openings 131 of the cylinders 13. Conversely, the guide portion 142 of the extension 14 is designed to allow the ring 11 to bend inward when pushed by the BBs from location L1 toward the front ends (referred to as "location L2") of the extension 14. The flexible ring 11 can bend either outward or inward while sliding between the locations L1 and L2.In particular, the flexible ring 11 has a larger circumference at location L1 than at location L2.

[0018] The tapered tubular nozzle structure incorporates an annular surface with a tapered portion that allows the flexible rubber ring 11 to flex both outwardly and inwardly as it moves along the surface. The circumferential extension includes an inwardly angled guide portion that allows the flexible rubber ring 11 to flex inwardly as it moves toward the distal end of the circumferential guide portion. The guide portion extends from the retaining portion and is angled relative thereto, providing a second annular surface that allows the flexible rubber ring 11 to flex outwardly or inwardly as it moves along the surface.

[0019] In a further embodiment of the cylindrical sleeve 10, as shown in the Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B and Fig. 3C, a method is presented that includes the following steps: a) reloading BBs into the cylinders 13 while the ring 11 is located at location L2; b) sliding the ring 11 from location L2 to location L1; c) releasing the compressed air (i.e., pressurized gas) within the grenade 100 to eject the BBs stored therein. The circumferential extension is designed to prevent BBs from falling when the flexible ring 11 is positioned at location L1. During the firing process, the BBs push the ring 11 from location L1 toward location L2. The tapered portion (circumferential guide portion) of the tubular nozzle is configured to ensure that the ring 11 no longer interferes with the trajectory channels 133 after being pushed to location L2, thereby avoiding horizontal overlap with the projectile passages.

[0020] The inclusion of a circumferentially tapered guide section facilitates the smooth movement of the flexible rubber ring 11 from one position to another (such as location L2, where the ring 11 does not interfere with the reloading of BBs). This design allows the user to reload the next round of BBs more quickly after firing, as no pressure is required to push the BBs through the rubber ring 11. With this in mind, a Fig. 4 incorporates a BB loading device 30 designed to load a substantial number of BBs simultaneously into each receiving cylinder 13 of the cylindrical shell 10.

[0021] The loading device 30 includes a body with an upper tray portion 31 and a lower dispensing portion 32. The tray portion 31 has an opening larger than the openings of typical BB packs (e.g., BB pack bottle 900) and is designed to receive BBs. The lower dispensing portion 32 consists of a plurality of circumferentially arranged BB queuing tubes 301, which are responsible for dispensing BBs into the cylinders 13 of the cylindrical casing 10. To prevent accidental discharge, the loading device 30 is equipped with a movable plug 33 positioned at the bottom of the queuing tubes 301, which can be used as needed to block and prevent BBs from falling out.

[0022] In a further embodiment, as described in the Fig. 5A, Fig. 5B and Fig. As shown in Figure 5C, a toy grenade 200, such as the AceHive series marketed by ACETECH, is designed for the simultaneous firing of a large number of BBs. The grenade 200 comprises a cylindrical shell 501 having a central bore 12. The receiving cylinders 13 arranged around the central bore 12 are designed to receive BBs. Adjacent to the front openings 131 of the cylinders are circumferentially arranged holding portions 541. These holding portions 541 extend around the centerline X of the cylindrical shell and provide a discontinuous annular surface 1 for attaching the flexible rubber ring. Fig. 5C and Fig. 5D, the cylindrical sleeve 501 is shown as including additional circumferentially arranged guide portions 542. These guide portions 542 extend from each retaining portion 541 and are angled relative thereto, creating a second, discontinuous annular surface 2. This second annular surface allows the rubber ring to flex outwardly or inwardly as it moves along it. To enable mobility of the ring contact surface 20, a series of circumferentially arranged projections 514 extend substantially around the central axis X and define a bore opening 121. The rubber ring contact surface 20, or simply the contact surface 20, may be mounted within this bore opening 121, utilizing the gaps 15 between the circumferentially arranged projections 514, as shown in FIGS. Fig. 5E, Fig. 5F and Fig. 5G shown.

[0023] The Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B illustrate an embodiment of the grenade 200 with the contact surface 20. The ring 11 is movable between positions L1 and L2. When the grenade 200 releases compressed air, the BBs move forward and push the ring 11 from position L1 to position L2. The contact surface 20 is designed to stop and hold the ring 11 in a predetermined position, such as position L2. When the ring 11 is in position L2, users can reload the next round of BBs more quickly because the contact surface 20 ensures that the ring 11 in this position does not Fig. 6C. To facilitate this functionality, the cylindrical sleeve may include a series of circumferentially arranged projections 514 with gaps 15 between them. These gaps 15 allow the mobility of the contact surface 20, which can be attached and move axially forward and backward along the central axis X through these gaps 15. As a result, the contact surface 20 can displace the ring 11 to preferred positions, such as position L1.

[0024] With reference to the Fig. 6D, Fig. 6E and Fig. 6F, the contact surface 20 includes a plurality of ribs 21 arranged on its outer peripheral surface. These ribs 21 are spaced apart from one another at a predetermined distance so that they can be inserted into the gaps 15 between any two projections 514 and push the ring 11 into preferred positions. Each rib 21 includes a second retaining portion 212 extending substantially about the central axis X. Furthermore, a rearward-facing portion 211 extends from the second retaining portion 212 toward the front, angled outward. The circumferentially arranged second retaining portions 212 create a third, discontinuous annular surface 3 that receives the ring 11 and securely holds it in the preferred positions.

[0025] The configuration of the plurality of rearwardly facing portions 211 is designed to push the ring 11 to position L1 (where the ring 11 is positioned on the first non-continuous annular surface). When the contact surface 20 is inserted into the bore opening 121 (as shown in Fig. 5F and Fig. 5G), the rearward-facing portions 211 cooperate in conjunction with the guide surfaces 542 to move the ring 11 to position L1. The rearward-facing portions 211 may have (but are not limited to) the same angle of inclination with respect to the central axis X. The plurality of ribs 21 are spaced apart to ensure that they do not obstruct the flight path channels 133. The height 4 of the ribs 21 (relative to the central axis X) may be greater than the distance from the central axis X to the lowest point 5 of the Fig. 6F. By sliding into the bore opening 121, the plurality of rearwardly facing portions 211 of the ribs 21 can push the ring 11 to position L1.

[0026] In the Fig. 6G and Fig. 6H, the shapes of the circumferentially arranged ribs 21 vary for the purpose of mounting or positioning. The contact surface 20 may also include a plurality of rear ribs 22 positioned opposite some of the circumferentially arranged ribs 21. Each rear rib 22 includes a pulling portion 221 facing the rearward-facing portions 211 and serving to pull the ring 11 out when necessary. The pulling portion 221 extends outwardly away from the central axis X and preferably has a portion substantially orthogonal to the central axis X and a chamfered portion adjacent the second retaining portion 212. In addition, the contact surface 20 may have a front hole 23 at the front side, allowing the user access to a Fig. 8C shown air inlet opening 411.

[0027] Based on the described embodiment, the sleeve includes a plurality of circumferentially arranged guide portions that allow the rubber ring to flex inwardly when pushed toward the distal ends. The ring contact surface 20 includes a plurality of ribs 21 arranged on its outer circumferential surface. Each rib 21 has a second retaining portion extending substantially about the central axis X and a rearward-facing portion 211 extending from the second retaining portion toward the front and angled outwardly relative thereto. The plurality of circumferentially arranged second retaining portions create the third, discontinuous annular surface that receives and holds the rubber ring in preferred positions. Additionally, the contact surface 20 may include the plurality of rear ribs 22 positioned opposite some of the circumferentially arranged ribs 21.These rear ribs 22 are designed to be inserted into the multiple gaps 15 between the projections 514. Consequently, the contact surface 20 can be positioned adjacent to the bore opening of the cylindrical sleeve and slide axially forward and backward. This allows the contact surface 20 to push or pull the rubber ring to preferred positions, such as L1 and L2.

[0028] In Fig. In Figure 7A, the cylindrical sleeve 501 is shown having a plurality of slots 16 between adjacent cylinders 13, which are used for inserting the plurality of rear ribs. This allows the grenade 200 to provide two stabilized positions for the contact surface 20 to engage the ring 11. Fig. 7B, the first stabilized position occurs when the ring 11 is at L1. In this position, the contact surface 20 is retracted to a low position, designated "position P1," where the rear ribs 22 do not interfere with the ring 11. The user can pull the ring 11 to L2 using the rear ribs 22 and then stabilize the contact surface 20 in a higher, distant position, designated "position P2."

[0029] In Fig. 7C, when the user slides the ring 11 from L2 to L1 using the contact surface 20, the location of the contact surface 20 is in the lowest position, designated "position P0." The user can then stabilize the contact surface 20 back to position P1. To meet these requirements, the grenade 200 includes a switching assembly 70 (as shown in Fig. 7D) for axially moving the contact surface 20 relative to the sleeve 501 between the removed position (P2), the retracted position (P1) and an intermediate position (P0).

[0030] In the Fig. 7D and Fig. 7E, the switching assembly 70 consists of a spring 701 providing a spring force, and a cylindrical first body 71 having a plurality of circumferentially arranged teeth 711 continuously arranged around the rear opening of the first body 71 and extending toward a second body 72 on its rearward side. The second body 72 has a plurality of guide ribs 721 on its outer side, and these guide ribs 721 have beveled ends 722. The beveled ends 722 of the guide ribs 721 engage with the circumferentially arranged teeth 711 of the first body 71. When a manual pushing force and the spring force are applied, the guide ribs 721 exert a twisting force relative to the first body 71.

[0031] In Fig. Figure 7F illustrates the interaction of the four elements within one embodiment of the grenade 200. The inner surface of the cylindrical sleeve 501 contains circumferentially arranged guide grooves 51 of varying lengths and beveled guides 52. These guide grooves 51 surround the first body 71 and the second body 72 after the sleeve 501 has been assembled with the switching assembly 70. The vertical guide grooves 51 ensure that the first body 71 can only move up and / or down as needed. However, the second body 72 can move both vertically and about the rotational axis.

[0032] The guide grooves 51, the beveled guides 52, and the circumferentially arranged teeth 711 of the first body 71 cooperate to cause the second body 72 to rotate, acting like a rotor, when the manual pressure force is released. A horizontal force component is initially generated between the first body 71 and the second body 72, and then between the second body 72 and the beveled guides 52. The cylindrical sleeve 501, with its differently lengthed guide grooves 51 and the beveled guides 52, enables vertical displacements and horizontal displacements via beveled paths, limiting the horizontal position. This allows the second body 72 to lock into the preferred vertical positions.

[0033] Fig. Figure 7G represents the mechanism required for the twisting action. Since the spring 701 continuously exerts an upward force, a horizontal force component is generated at the beveled ends 722 attached to the elements. This horizontal force component enables the twisting action and can define the extension-insertion and retraction-insertion states. In other words, the twisting action is assisted by the horizontal force component on the beveled profiles, ensuring the movement of the second body 72.

[0034] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7H, the cylindrical sleeve 501 is provided with a plurality of circumferentially arranged inner guide grooves 51 defined by main columns 511 extending inward from the inner surface of the sleeve 501. Each main column 511 includes a chamfered guide 52 on its underside and serves as a means for limiting the horizontal position by the side surfaces of the column 511. In addition, the cylindrical sleeve 501 includes a plurality of circumferentially arranged lower columns 512 positioned between two main columns 511. These lower columns 512 also extend inward from the inner surface of the sleeve 501 and have chamfered guides 53 on their undersides. The chamfered guides 52 of the main columns 511 and the chamfered guides 53 of the lower columns 512 have substantially the same chamfer angle.

[0035] The height (radial distance between the inner edge of the beveled guides 52 and the inner surface of the sleeve 501) of the lower columns 512 is less than the height (radial distance between the inner edge of the beveled guides 53 and the inner surface of the sleeve 501) of the main columns 511. This height difference allows the lower columns to further limit the stop positions of the guide ribs 721 and provides a shorter first vertical displacement between the retracted position P1 and the intermediate position P0.

[0036] In an embodiment of the grenade 200, in which the switching arrangement 70 is fixedly attached to the ring contact surface 20, the cylindrical sleeve 501 comprises a plurality of guide grooves 51 arranged in the circumferential direction (see Fig. 7F) provided by the main columns 511 and the plurality of circumferentially arranged lower columns 512. This allows the user to axially move the contact surface 20 relative to the sleeve 501 between the removed position (P2), the retracted position (P1), and the intermediate position (P0), as shown in Fig. 7B and Fig. 7C shown.

[0037] As in Fig. 8A and Fig. As shown in Figure 8B, a toy cannon grenade may consist of the following components: the cylindrical sleeve 501, the storage chamber 40, and an actuating rod assembly 41. The storage chamber 40 is connected to the cylindrical sleeve 501 and can accommodate compressed air. The actuating rod assembly 41 can move between a fifth location 5 and a sixth location 6.

[0038] When the actuating rod assembly 41 is located at the fifth location 5, it seals the storage chamber 40 and prevents compressed air from escaping. However, when it moves toward the sixth location 6, it allows for the immediate ejection of BBs from the cartridge case by releasing the compressed air. Unlike the actuating rod assembly described in US Patent US8517005B2, this embodiment is configured to move rearward rather than forward. This design ensures that the actuating rod assembly 41 does not interfere with the ring contact surface 20 during the firing process.

[0039] In Fig. 8C and Fig. 8D, the storage chamber 40 is defined by a first inner edge 401 at the front end and a second inner edge 402 at the rear end. The actuating rod assembly 41 is hollow and is positioned within the central bore of the cylindrical sleeve 501. It includes an air inlet tube 410 located at the front end and having an air inlet opening 411 at the front end.

[0040] The actuating rod assembly 41 is equipped at its rear end with a front radial extension 42 and a rear radial extension 43. An air outlet opening 44 is formed between the front and rear radial extensions 42 and 43. Sealing rings 421 and 431 are mounted on the circumferential surfaces of the front and rear radial extensions 42 and 43, respectively. These sealing rings 421 and 431 engage the first inner edge 401 and the second inner edge 402 of the storage chamber 40, creating a hermetic seal for the storage chamber 40. The front radial extension 42 has a smaller flange 422 toward the front and a wider flange 423 toward the rear. This design allows the actuating rod assembly 41 to move only rearward when the compressed air is released from the storage chamber 40.

[0041] The compressed air enters the storage chamber 40 through the air inlet opening 411 of the air inlet tube 410 and accumulates in the chamber. When the trigger is pulled, a primer assembly (in Fig. 8G) is designed to move the actuating rod assembly 41 rearward. This movement disengages the forward radial extension 42 from the first inner edge 401 of the storage chamber 40, thereby releasing the compressed air stored in the chamber and immediately ejecting the BBs contained in the cylindrical sleeve 501.In view of the foregoing, an embodiment of the grenade 200 including the actuating rod assembly 41 may comprise: the cylindrical sleeve including the circumferentially arranged guide portions in front of the tubular nozzle and the circumferentially arranged guide grooves on the inner surface of the cylindrical sleeve; the ring contact surface 20; the switching assembly 70; and the actuating rod assembly 41, wherein the rod assembly 41 is configured to move rearward during the firing process so that the rod assembly 41 and the ring contact surface 20 do not interfere with each other during firing.

[0042] In Fig. 8E, the toy grenade 200 includes the primer assembly located at the rear of the storage chamber 40. The primer assembly consists of at least one spring 81, a primer 82, and a plurality of steel balls 83. This assembly is responsible for initiating the movement of the actuating rod assembly during the firing process. Fig. 8F, the actuating rod assembly 41 is shown. It includes a rod 45 extending rearwardly from the center of the forward radial extension 42. A central radial extension 46 extends radially from the rearward end of the rod 45. Extending rearwardly from the outer edge of the central radial extension 46 is a cylindrical wall 47 symmetrically aligned about the centerline X. The rearward radial extension 43 extends outwardly from the rear edge of the cylindrical wall 47 and has an inner chamfered annular surface 48 extending rearwardly and outwardly from the rear opening of the cylindrical wall 47. The cylindrical space 432 enclosed by the central radial extension 46, the cylindrical wall 47, and the chamfered annular surface 48 serves as a housing for receiving the primer assembly.

[0043] The primer assembly guides the rearward movement of the actuating rod assembly 41 by engaging the beveled annular surface 48 and a lower cylindrical wall 403 (shown in Fig. 8E).

[0044] In Fig. 8G illustrates the different states of the primer assembly and the actuating rod assembly. In state (A), the storage chamber 40 is filled with compressed air, and a compressed air force 400 is applied to the actuating rod assembly 41 to attempt to move it rearward. However, movement is prevented by the plurality of steel balls 83, along with the tapered annular surface 48, the front of the lower cylindrical wall 403, and the surfaces of the primer 82, hindering rearward movement. In state (B), when a manual force 800 is applied to the primer 82, pushing it forward, a space is created for the steel balls 83 to slide inward. The steel balls 83 are then pushed inward until they reach the position shown in state (C).At this point, the actuating rod assembly 41 is free to move rearward until the pressure inside the chamber 40 is relieved due to the excessive release of compressed air through the . Fig. 8J shown gap 87 is no longer strong enough.

[0045] With reference to the Fig. 8H, Fig. 8I and Fig. 8J, the primer capsule 82 consists of an upper radial extension 821, a cylindrical outer wall 822, a beveled outer annular surface 823, and an annular groove 824. The primer capsule 82 also has a cylindrical interior 825 for receiving the spring 81. The upper radial extension 821 extends from the top of the cylindrical wall 822. The beveled outer annular surface 823 extends rearwardly and inwardly from the rear edge of the cylindrical wall 822, thus creating the necessary space for the annular groove 824. In Fig. Figure 8J is a cross-sectional view (showing only partial components) that shows that when the primer cap 82 is pushed forward, the actuating rod assembly 41 moves rearward, allowing the pressurized air to escape from the storage chamber 40 through the gap 87.

[0046] The Fig. 9A-9C illustrate a reloading method based on the previously described toy grenade embodiments, wherein each of the projections in the cylindrical sleeve includes an inwardly angled guide portion. This angled guide portion allows the rubber ring to flex inwardly as it is moved toward the distal ends (L2) of the guide portions, thereby facilitating the reloading process. The method includes the following steps: a. Pulling the ring 11 to location L2 and providing the BB loading device 30 containing a plurality of BBs for loading; b. Picking up or loading BBs from each of the cylinders 13 into the loading device. This is accomplished by aligning each cylinder with a corresponding BB queuing tube 301 in the loading device and allowing the BBs to transfer from the cylinders into the queuing tubes.Once the BBs are loaded, the openings of the queue tubes 301 are blocked to prevent BBs from falling out; and c. Removing the loading device 30 from the cylindrical shell and then sliding the ring 11 from location L2 to location L1. This movement of the ring ensures that the loaded BBs are held securely in place and do not fall out before the user intends to fire them.

[0047] In a Fig. 9D, the loading device 30 may include a plurality of queue tubes 301 located at appropriate positions relative to the circumferentially arranged cylinders 13. This means that each of the appropriate queue tubes 301 of the loading device 30 and the cylinders 13 of the cylindrical sleeve each share the same trajectory channel 133. The depth of the queue tubes 301 is designated D1 and corresponds to the height of the BBs stacked in parallel within the cylinders 13.

[0048] In Fig. 9E and Fig. 9F, the loading device 30 is equipped with a rotating structure 302 located near each lower opening of the queue tubes 301. This rotating structure 302 is capable of preventing the BBs from falling through the lower openings. The rotating structure 302 can be rotated between the R1 position and the R2 position.

[0049] When the rotating structure 302 is in position R1, the blocker sections 311, which extend inward from the outer peripheral surface 310 to the inner periphery 320 of the rotating structure 302, prevent BBs from falling. This ensures that the BBs remain securely in place in the queue tubes 301. When the rotating structure 302 is in position R2, it does not interfere with the BB trajectory channels. This allows the BBs to flow freely from the queue tubes 301 into the cylinders. The rotating structure 302 is symmetrical about the centerline X, and its design allows for smooth loading of the BBs into the grenade and prevents accidental release during the reloading process.

[0050] In the Fig. 9G and Fig. 9H, the rotary structure 302 is extended with an annular wall 312 that extends upwardly from the outer peripheral surface 310. This annular wall 312 includes projections 313 arranged circumferentially on its outer surface. These projections 313 serve for assembling or positioning the rotary structure 302. Continue to Fig. Figure 9I provides a schematic diagram of the loading device 30 in plan view. The loading device 30 is divided into several areas 305 separated by circumferentially arranged distribution walls 307. These distribution walls 307 help distribute the BBs to different areas to ensure even loading.

[0051] In the Fig. 9 years and Fig.Figure 9K presents another embodiment showing curved distribution walls 307 that curve toward the upper openings 306 of the queuing tubes 301. This curved shape helps guide the BBs more smoothly into the upper openings 306. Additionally, shorter distribution walls 308 are placed between two distribution walls 307 adjacent to each upper opening 306. These shorter distribution walls 308 further help direct the BBs more efficiently into the upper openings 306. To facilitate the loading process, once the loading device 30 is filled with BBs, the user can cover the lid 304 and shake the device. This shaking motion helps ensure that the BBs smoothly enter the queuing tubes 301, thereby avoiding potential blockages or jams.

[0052] Based on the description provided, one embodiment of the BB loading device for loading a substantial number of BBs into a toy grenade can be outlined as follows: the loading device comprises a body divided into an upper section 31 and a lower section 32. The upper section 31 consists of circumferentially arranged areas 305 separated by distribution walls 307. These distribution walls facilitate the distribution of BBs to different areas within the upper section. Further to the lower section 32, it has a central opening 321 that is symmetrical about the central axis X. This central opening is designed to be releasably coupled to the head section of toy grenades. Around the central opening are a plurality of circumferentially arranged BB queuing tubes 301.Each of these queue tubes is connected to the circumferentially arranged regions 305 of the upper section via the upper opening 306. A corresponding lower opening 303 is located at the bottom of each queue tube 301.

[0053] The lower section 32 contains the rotating structure 302, which consists of circumferentially arranged blocker sections 311 located adjacent to the lower openings of the queue tubes 301. The purpose of this rotating structure is to prevent the BBs within the queue tubes 301 from exiting through the lower openings 303. By rotating between the R1 position and the R2 position, the rotating structure ensures that the BBs remain secure and do not fall off in the R1 position, while in the R2 position, it does not interfere with the BB trajectory channels 133. This embodiment of the BB loading device provides an efficient mechanism for loading BBs into a toy grenade, ensuring trouble-free operation and reliable ammunition delivery.

[0054] The above embodiments are not limited by the details of the description, but should rather be considered broadly within the scope of protection defined in the appended claims.

[0055] For example, in one embodiment, the toy grenade 200 may include the cylindrical sleeve containing a plurality of circumferentially disposed receiving cylinders 13 and a plurality of circumferentially disposed extensions 514, wherein each of the extensions may include the inwardly angled guide portion 542 to allow the rubber ring to flex inwardly when moved toward the distal ends of the guide portions 542.

[0056] In another embodiment, the grenade 200 may include the cylindrical sleeve for slidingly mounting the flexible rubber ring 11 on the discontinuous annular surface, which includes a centrally formed through-bore symmetrical about the central axis X and having the inner periphery 101, around which the plurality of circumferentially arranged receiving cylinders 13 are configured such that each of the cylinders 13 can receive and load BBs via its front opening 131. Each of the cylinders 13 includes the rear opening 132.

[0057] In some embodiments, the cylindrical sleeve includes a plurality of circumferentially arranged projections 514 adjacent each of the front openings 131 and the inner periphery 101, via which projections 514 are configured to receive and retain the flexible rubber ring 11 (via the plurality of first retaining portions 541 located on the sides facing each of the front openings 131). Each of the projections 514 includes the guide portion 542 located downstream of each of the first retaining portions 541 and angled inward from the inner periphery toward the central axis X. The plurality of circumferentially arranged first retaining portions 541 extend substantially around the central axis X to form the first discontinuous annular surface 1 for receiving and retaining the ring 11.The guide portions 542 are configured so that the ring 11 can bend inward when pushed by the first holding portions 541 toward the front ends of the guide portions 542.

[0058] In view of the foregoing, the toy grenade may comprise the cylindrical sleeve containing a central bore around which the plurality of circumferentially arranged receiving cylinders 13 are configured so that each of the cylinders 13 can receive BB bullets, the cylindrical sleeve further including a plurality of circumferentially arranged holding portions 541 (for the discontinuous annular surface 1) adjacent to each of the front openings 131 (of the cylinder 13) and extending around the central axis X to provide the first discontinuous annular surface 1 for attaching the flexible rubber ring, and the plurality of circumferentially arranged guide portions 542 (for the discontinuous annular surface 2) extending from each of the holding portions 541 and angled with respect thereto to provide the second discontinuous annular surface 2.to allow the rubber ring to flex outwardly and inwardly as it moves on the annular surfaces (the first and second non-continuous annular surfaces). The plurality of circumferentially arranged projections 514 extend substantially around the central axis X to define the bore opening 121 through which the contact surface 20 can be movably mounted therein, since the plurality of gaps 15 are located between the plurality of circumferentially arranged projections 514.

[0059] In one embodiment, the bullet loading device 30 comprises a body having an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion including a plurality of circumferentially arranged regions separated by a plurality of circumferentially arranged distribution walls; and the lower portion including a central opening symmetrical about a centerline and having a circumferential surface around which a plurality of circumferentially arranged bullet queuing tubes are configured such that each of the queuing tubes can receive bullets via an upper opening connected to the circumferentially arranged regions of the upper portion. Thus, the user can cover a lid on the loading device and then shake it to introduce the bullets into the queuing tubes.Furthermore, when the loading device is coupled with the toy grenade, the user can feed all the projectiles from the queue tubes into the cylinders of the toy grenade at once.

[0060] In another embodiment, a toy grenade comprises the cylindrical sleeve containing a plurality of circumferentially arranged receiving cylinders and projections, over which the projections are configured to slidably mount a flexible rubber ring; the contact surface 20 disposed proximate the bore opening of the cylindrical sleeve, which is axially displaceable to move the rubber ring to preferred locations; the switching assembly 70 for axially moving the contact surface 20 relative to the cylindrical sleeve between preferred locations: a remote position, a retracted position, and an intermediate position; the storage chamber 40 communicating with the cylindrical sleeve; and the actuating rod assembly 41 including the front radial projection and the rear radial projection, each having a circumferential surface around which the sealing ring is mounted.to engage the sealing rings with the first edge and the second edge of the storage chamber 40 to hermetically seal the storage chamber 40, wherein the forward radial extension of the actuating rod assembly has a smaller flange at the front and a wider flange at the rear to limit the rearward movement of the actuating rod assembly when the pressurized air in the storage chamber is released. Each of the extensions of the cylindrical sleeve includes an inwardly angled guide portion that allows the rubber ring to flex inwardly as it is moved toward the distal ends of the guide portions. With respect to the guide portion, the term "remote" means in the forward direction, away from the cylindrical sleeve.

[0061] In another embodiment, the toy grenade comprises the cylindrical sleeve including a plurality of circumferentially arranged projections, each of the projections comprising the retaining portion and the inwardly angled guide portion. The plurality of circumferentially arranged retaining portions extend substantially about the centerline to define the annular surface for slidingly mounting the rubber ring. The inwardly angled guide portions are configured to allow the rubber ring to flex inwardly as it is moved from the retaining portions to the distal ends of the guide portions. With respect to the projections, the term "remote" means toward the front, away from the cylinders.

[0062] In view of the foregoing, a reloading method that can be adapted for use with the cylindrical sleeve includes the following steps: a. Pulling the flexible rubber ring from the circumferentially arranged holding sections to the distal ends of the guide sections. b. Picking up and loading BB bullets or paintballs from each of the receiving cylinders. c. Pushing the flexible rubber ring from the distal ends of the guide sections back to the circumferentially arranged holding sections. The flexible rubber ring blocks and prevents the BB bullets or paintballs from falling only when it is in the holding sections. If the user wants to safely unload the large number of BB bullets, the user can simply move the flexible rubber ring away from the holding sections and then empty all the bullets.

[0063] All changes and modifications that come within the scope and spirit of the claims are intended to be embraced by the appended claims.

Claims

[1] Toy grenade (100) for firing a large number of projectiles at once, which a cylindrical sleeve (10) comprising a plurality of receiving cylinders (13) arranged in the circumferential direction, and has a plurality of projections arranged in the circumferential direction, over which the projections are configured to attach a flexible rubber ring, wherein each of the extensions has an inwardly angled guide portion (142) that allows the rubber ring to bend inwardly when moved toward the distal ends of the guide portions (142). [2] Toy grenade (100) for firing a large number of projectiles at once, which a cylindrical sleeve (10) comprising a central bore around which a plurality of circumferentially arranged receiving cylinders (13), each having a front opening (131), are configured to enable each of the receiving cylinders (13) to receive projectiles, the cylindrical sleeve (10) further comprising a plurality of circumferentially arranged retaining portions (141) adjacent to each of the front openings of the receiving cylinders (13) extending around a centerline (X) to provide a first discontinuous annular surface for attaching a flexible rubber ring, and a plurality of circumferentially arranged guide portions (142) extending from and angled with respect to each of the support portions (141) and providing a second discontinuous annular surface to allow the rubber ring to flex outwardly and inwardly as it moves on the annular surfaces.

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