Damping system for a firearm

Abstract

The present invention concerns a damping system (2) for a firearm (1) comprising a hollow body (4) of longitudinal axis (A), called a hollow body (4) defining a space (6), said damping system (2) comprising a mobile body (5) along the longitudinal axis (A) housed at least partially in space (6), said damping system (2) also including first means of damping (9) housed in space (6) and operationally interposed between said body mobile (5) and called hollow body (4), called damping system (2) including second means of damping (10) outside space (6). The hollow body (4) defines an opening (7) configured to allow selective fluidic communication of the space (6) with the external environment.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority from Italian patent application no. 102024000010222 filed on May 7, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHINCAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a damping system for a firearm, in particular a damping system for a rifle based on the AR 15 platform with semi-automatic operation.

[0003] The present invention finds its preferred, though not exclusive, application in a rifle. This application will be referred to below by way of example.STATE OF THE ART

[0004] As is well known, a firearm is subject, during use, to the phenomenon of recoil. In particular, recoil is a retrograde movement that the firearm exerts on a shooter when a shot is fired due to the dynamics of the same.

[0005] When the shooter pulls the trigger, a small amount of gunpowder is triggered, which, when burned, generates a large amount of high-pressure gas. In particular, a significant amount of gas is expelled from the barrel, exerting a force downwards and backwards, thus causing recoil.

[0006] In general, the recoil of a firearm causes several problems.

[0007] Firstly, too much recoil can make it difficult for the shooter to keep the firearm stationary during firing, affecting its accuracy and causing inaccurate shots, particularly when shots are fired in rapid sequence.

[0008] Additionally, recoil can cause structural and / or functional damage to the firearm. In detail, continuous stresses can reduce the service life of the firearm.

[0009] There is therefore a need to resolve these problems.

[0010] The purpose of the present invention is to meet the above requirements in an optimized and economical manner.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] This purpose is achieved by a damping system as claimed in the appended set of claims which form an integral part of this description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] For a better understanding of the present invention, a preferred form of implementation is described below, by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the attached designs wherein: Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a firearm including the damping system according to the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates an enlarged view of the damping system according to the present invention; Figure 3 illustrates an exploded side view of the damping system of Figure 2; and Figures 4, 5, and 6 illustrate side sectional views of the damping system according to the invention in three respective operating conditions. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Figure 1 illustrates a firearm 1, such as an AR 15 platform-based carbine with semi-automatic operation as illustrated.

[0014] As is well known, the firearm comprises a stock 1', a grip portion 1'' and a barrel 1‴ connected to each other and extending along a longitudinal axis A of the weapon.

[0015] In particular, the firearm 1 includes a damping system 2, in detail housed in the stock 1' as described in detail below.

[0016] In detail, the damping system 2 is housed in seat 3 defined by a portion of the calcium 1'.

[0017] In particular, as is known, this seat 3 is defined by a support structure (also called "buffer tube") of the firearm 1.

[0018] The damping system 2, as better visible in Figures 2 and 3, essentially comprises a hollow body 4 and a mobile body 5 with respect to the hollow body 4 as described in more detail below.

[0019] Preferably, the hollow body 4 is made of brass or aluminum.

[0020] Referring to the hollow body 4, this develops along the longitudinal axis A and is delimited both radially by a first wall 4', and axially by a second wall 4'' at an end opposite to the one cooperating with the mobile body 5, so as to define a space 6 inside the hollow body 4.

[0021] In particular, said space 6 is configured to slide the mobile body 5 inside the hollow body 4.

[0022] In detail, the mobile body 5 moves along the longitudinal axis A and is configured to be at least partially housed in the space 6 of the hollow body 4.

[0023] Preferably, the hollow body 4 has a circular cross-section, thus defining a hollow cylinder. Similarly, the mobile body 5 has a complementary shape to that of space 6 and therefore, in the shape illustrated below, cylindrical.

[0024] In particular, the mobile body 5 includes a main portion 5' and a head 5''. In particular, the main portion 5' extends radially less than the head 5'' with respect to the longitudinal axis A, i.e. the head 5'' has a larger diameter than the main portion 5'.

[0025] Advantageously, the mobile body 5 is movable inside the space 6 in a sealed manner, i.e. in such a way as to keep the space 6 isolated from the external environment.

[0026] For this purpose, the damping system 2 includes sealing means 8. Specifically, the sealing means 8 include one or more hydraulic seals 8' connected, for example by means of a threaded element such as a screw, to the main body 5'.

[0027] Preferably, the wall 4'' of the hollow body 4 also includes sealing means. In particular, the sealing means includes a round stop of a predefined diameter and a gasket configured both to ensure a watertight seal of the hollow body 4 when the mobile body 5 moves along the longitudinal axis A and to resist a pressure that develops during such movement.

[0028] Conveniently, the round stop is a steel washer.

[0029] A wall of the hollow body 4 comprises an opening 7 configured to allow selective fluidic communication of the space 6 with an environment external, i.e. said opening 7 is configured to let air exit / enter from / into said space 6.

[0030] Preferably, said opening 7 is a calibrated hole, possibly housing vent valve means. In detail, said calibrated hole has a diameter of approximately one millimeter.

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, the damping system 2 comprises first damping means 9 housed in the space 6 of the hollow body 4 and operationally interposed between the mobile body 5 and the hollow body 4.

[0032] In particular, the first damping means 9 includes a coil spring.

[0033] In more detail, this coil spring is coaxial to the axis A.

[0034] Preferably, the first damping means 9 are made of stainless steel or carbon steel.

[0035] The damping system 2 also includes second damping means 10 operationally interposed between the mobile body 5 and the hollow body 4 housed outside the space 6.

[0036] According to the present embodiment, the second damping means 10 are placed externally and coaxially to the mobile body 5 and act between the head 5" of the same and an external edge of the hollow body 4.

[0037] Preferably, the second damping means 10 also includes a coil spring. In particular, the diameter of the coil spring of the second damping means 10 is greater than that of the first damping means 9. Preferably, the coil spring wire of the second damping means 10 is also larger than that of the first damping means 9.

[0038] In more detail, said coil spring is coaxial to the axis A and therefore coaxial to the coil spring of the first damping means 9.

[0039] Conveniently, the second damping means 10 are made of carbon steel.

[0040] Conveniently, said first damping means 9 and said second damping means 10 are placed in parallel with each other with respect to the mobile body 5 and the hollow body 4.

[0041] Furthermore, they operate along the same longitudinal axis A in such a way that a compression of the first damping means 9 causes a compression of the second damping means 10 and a release of said first damping means 9 causes a release of the said second damping means 10.

[0042] The damping system 2 may also include third damping means 11 operationally interposed between the mobile body 5 and a portion of the firearm 1.

[0043] In particular, the third damping means 11 are placed coaxially to the longitudinal axis A and therefore to the first and second damping means 9, 10. In detail, they are placed outside the mobile body 5 and the hollow body 4.

[0044] Preferably, said third damping means 11 are made of stainless steel with a mirror polished finish and with dedicated dimensions to reduce the tolerances in order to minimize the vibration frequency during use.

[0045] Alternatively, the third damping means 11 are made of carbon steel.

[0046] Advantageously, the damping system 2 comprises limit switch elements 12 positioned respectively at one end 13 of the hollow body 4 and at one end 14 of the mobile body 5 opposite said hollow body 4 along the axis A.

[0047] Preferably, these limit switch elements 12 include bumpers made of deformable material. In detail, this deformable material includes anti-vibration elastomer and steel.

[0048] Conveniently, the limit switch element 12 is attached to the mobile body 5 by means of a threaded element 15 such as a screw.

[0049] Preferably, the limit switch element 12 is attached to the second wall 4'' of the hollow body 4 by means of a threaded element 16 such as a screw.

[0050] The assembly step of the embodiment of the damping system according to the invention described above is as follows.

[0051] Generally, either for initial use, during production, or after maintenance and / or inspection of the damping system 2, it is necessary to assemble the damping system 2 before it is housed in the firearm 1.

[0052] Conveniently, the damping system 2 is housed in a resting condition in firearm 1, wherein the first damping means 9 and the second damping means 10 are extended and a volume of air is contained within the space 6 of the hollow body 4.

[0053] The assembly step of the damping system 2 includes the housing of the mobile body 5 in the space 6 of the hollow body 4.

[0054] In particular, the assembly phase includes the insertion of the mobile body 5 inside the space 6 of the hollow body 4 and a subsequent return of the mobile body 5 to the resting condition.

[0055] In detail, the mobile body 5 operates along the longitudinal axis A within the space 6 of the hollow body 4, sliding towards the hollow body 4 along the direction of axis A and then in an opposite direction to the hollow body 4 along the direction of axis A to configure a resting condition.

[0056] In particular, when the mobile body 5 slides towards the hollow body 4, it causes a maximum compression of the first damping means 9, of the second damping means 10 and a compression of a volume of air contained in the space 6 of the hollow body 4.

[0057] Subsequently, the damping system 2 returns to the rest position under the pressure of the third damping means 11, and, at the same time, the mobile body 5 slides in the opposite direction to the hollow body 4 along the axis A, configuring the rest condition, i.e. the condition in which the damping system 2 is housed in the firearm 1.

[0058] In particular, the sliding of the mobile body 5 in the opposite direction with respect to the hollow body 4 is operated by the extension of the first damping means 9, by the extension of the second damping means 10 and by the expansion of the volume of compressed air contained in the space 6.

[0059] In detail, in the resting condition the second damping means 10 are also extended.

[0060] The volume of compressed air inserted and therefore contained in the space 6 during the sliding of the mobile body 5 in the space 6 of the hollow body 4 is greater than the volume of air contained in the space 6 when the damping system 2 is in the resting condition (and therefore the damping means 9, 10 are extended).

[0061] Therefore, when the damping system 2 returns to the resting condition following the expansion of the first damping means 9, the air inside the space 6 of the hollow body 4 tends to expand to the volume of air inserted during the insertion of the mobile body 5 into the space 6 of the hollow body 4.

[0062] In other words, the return of the damping system 2 to the resting condition following the insertion of the mobile body 5 causes an excessive displacement of the mobile body 5 along the longitudinal axis A in the opposite direction to that of insertion, namely an excessive displacement with respect to the maximum development of these first damping means 9 due to the excess air volume contained in the space 6.

[0063] Advantageously, the opening 7 of the wall 4" of the hollow body 4 is configured to put the space 6 in fluid communication with the external environment, so that said opening 7 is configured to let out the volume of air in excess of the maximum development of said first damping means 9.

[0064] This ensures the return position to the resting state (or zero return phase) configured during the assembly of damping system 2. By way of example and not limitation, excessive displacement of the mobile body 5 described above may also occur due to changed atmospheric conditions in the time interval between the assembly phase and a first operating cycle.

[0065] The operation of the embodiment of the damping system 2 according to the invention described above is as follows.

[0066] Figures 4, 5 and 6 schematically and sequentially illustrate successive phases of an operating cycle at the time of firing the damping system 2.

[0067] Figure 4 schematically illustrates the resting condition of the damping system 2 before a shot is fired. In particular, the damping system 2 is kept coaxial to the hollow body 4, therefore in the space 6, in the resting condition by means of the third damping means 11.

[0068] In use, therefore at the time of firing, the damping system 2 undergoes a coaxial retraction to the hollow body 4, inside the seat 3 of the firearm 1. In detail, the mobile body 5, due to the retrograde force due to an expansion of the flue gases, slides along the direction of the A-axis towards the hollow body 4. In particular, the mobile body 5 operates in the space 6 of the hollow body 4. In detail, the sliding of the mobile body 5 inside the hollow body 4 causes maximum compression of the first damping means 9 and the second damping means 10.

[0069] In other words, when firing, the damping system 2 slides inside the seat 3 of the firearm 1 in the direction of one end of the seat 3 along the direction of the sliding of the mobile body 5. In detail, the damping system 2 runs coaxially to the third damping means 11. In particular, when this end is reached, since it can no longer slide inside seat 3, the first damping means 9 and the second damping means 10 are compressed. In detail, the damping system 2, at the time of firing, applies a calibrated resistance by absorbing the peak force due to the recoil, which, otherwise, would be completely discharged on firearm 1 and on the shooter.

[0070] In particular, the sliding of the mobile body 5 causes a compression of the air contained within the space 6 of the hollow cylinder 4.

[0071] As shown in Figure 6, at the end of the operating cycle, the compressed air within the space 6 expands and the damping means 9, 10 returns to its initial resting condition.

[0072] Conveniently, the damping system 2 is an isobaric system.

[0073] In particular, when the mobile body 5 flows inside the hollow body 4, the air contained in the space 6 undergoes compression in which it exceeds an environmental pressure value; at the end of the operating cycle, the air contained in the space 6 returns to isobaric equilibrium with the external environment by means of the opening 7.

[0074] Advantageously, at the end of the operating cycle, in the event of an overpressure inside space 6 of the hollow body 4, a part of the volume of air contained at the end of the operating cycle inside the space 6 escapes through the opening 7, thus restoring the normal operating pressure in the resting condition.

[0075] From the above, the advantages of the damping system 2 according to the invention are evident.

[0076] Firstly, the damping system 2 does not include pressurised oil and / or gas that can be influenced by external climatic conditions, so there is no risk of spillage of liquids and / or gases into the external environment with a consequent reduction in the damping capacity of the system itself.

[0077] The damping system 2 is an isobaric system, so it is not affected by changes in ambient pressure and a pressure-controlled environment is not required for assembly.

[0078] Due to the small tolerances between the mobile body 5, an outer wall of the hollow body 4 and the third damping means 11 of the damping system 2, the noise produced by the operating cycle is almost zero, unlike standard systems on the AR platform 15 where the noise of the damping means (in particular the springs) is classic.

[0079] The damping system 2 allows operation with a wide temperature range and can be inspected for any maintenance and / or addition of a lubricant (e.g. silicone and teflon grease on the gaskets).

[0080] In addition, thanks to the dimensions of the system, the use of multiple linear damping devices, the use of elastomer limit stroke pads that absorb vibrations and shocks, the damping system 2 reduces the vibrations produced by the firing cycle, producing an advantage in terms of: recoil angle reduction, drift angle reduction, elevation angle reduction, which directly overturns on an obvious advantage in terms of containing the pattern of shots on the target, increasing their concentration even by adopting a high rate of fire.

[0081] In particular, the damping system 2 dampens the impact of the firing cycle both in the expansion phase of the gases produced by combustion, and in the return to zero phase of the closing parts of firearm 1 (i.e. the bolt) and thanks also to the distribution of the mass, so the "bolt bounce" effect is non-existent.

[0082] Finally, the damping of the recoil of firearm 1 in contact with the shooter's body reduces its impact and avoids muscle soreness of the parts in contact with the stock of the weapon, especially after long shooting sessions.

[0083] Finally, it is clear that the damping system 2 according to the present invention can be modified and variated, but these do not fall outside the scope of protection defined by the claims.

[0084] For example, according to an alternative form of actuation, the second means of damping 10 are placed internally and coaxially to the mobile body 5.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0013]Figure 1 illustrates a firearm 1, such as an AR 15 platform-based carbine with semi-automatic operation as illustrated.

[0014]As is well known, the firearm comprises a stock 1', a grip portion 1'' and a barrel 1‴ connected to each other and extending along a longitudinal axis A of the weapon.

[0015]In particular, the firearm 1 includes a damping system 2, in detail housed in the stock 1' as described in detail below.

[0016]In detail, the damping system 2 is housed in seat 3 defined by a portion of the calcium 1'.

[0017]In particular, as is known, this seat 3 is defined by a support structure (also called "buffer tube") of the firearm 1.

[0018]The damping system 2, as better visible in Figures 2 and 3, essentially comprises a hollow body 4 and a mobile body 5 with respect to the hollow body 4 as described in more detail below.

[0019]Preferably, the hollow body 4 is made of brass or aluminum.

[0020]Referring to the hollow body 4, this develops along the longitudinal axis A and is delim...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority from Italian patent application no. 102024000010222 filed on May 7, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHINCAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a damping system for a firearm, in particular a damping system for a rifle based on the AR 15 platform with semi-automatic operation.

[0003] The present invention finds its preferred, though not exclusive, application in a rifle. This application will be referred to below by way of example.STATE OF THE ART

[0004] As is well known, a firearm is subject, during use, to the phenomenon of recoil. In particular, recoil is a retrograde movement that the firearm exerts on a shooter when a shot is fired due to the dynamics of the same.

[0005] When the shooter pulls the trigger, a small amount of gunpowder is triggered, which, when burned, generates a large amount of high-pressure gas. In particular, a significant amount of gas is expelled from the barrel, exerting a force downwards and backwards, thus causing recoil.

[0006] In general, the recoil of a firearm causes several problems.

[0007] Firstly, too much recoil can make it difficult for the shooter to keep the firearm stationary during firing, affecting its accuracy and causing inaccurate shots, particularly when shots are fired in rapid sequence.

[0008] Additionally, recoil can cause structural and / or functional damage to the firearm. In detail, continuous stresses can reduce the service life of the firearm.

[0009] There is therefore a need to resolve these problems.

[0010] The purpose of the present invention is to meet the above requirements in an optimized and economical manner.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] This purpose is achieved by a damping system as claimed in the appended set of claims which form an integral part of this description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] For a better understanding of the present invention, a preferred form of implementation is described below, by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the attached designs wherein: Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a firearm including the damping system according to the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates an enlarged view of the damping system according to the present invention; Figure 3 illustrates an exploded side view of the damping system of Figure 2; and Figures 4, 5, and 6 illustrate side sectional views of the damping system according to the invention in three respective operating conditions. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Figure 1 illustrates a firearm 1, such as an AR 15 platform-based carbine with semi-automatic operation as illustrated.

[0014] As is well known, the firearm comprises a stock 1', a grip portion 1'' and a barrel 1‴ connected to each other and extending along a longitudinal axis A of the weapon.

[0015] In particular, the firearm 1 includes a damping system 2, in detail housed in the stock 1' as described in detail below.

[0016] In detail, the damping system 2 is housed in seat 3 defined by a portion of the calcium 1'.

[0017] In particular, as is known, this seat 3 is defined by a support structure (also called "buffer tube") of the firearm 1.

[0018] The damping system 2, as better visible in Figures 2 and 3, essentially comprises a hollow body 4 and a mobile body 5 with respect to the hollow body 4 as described in more detail below.

[0019] Preferably, the hollow body 4 is made of brass or aluminum.

[0020] Referring to the hollow body 4, this develops along the longitudinal axis A and is delimited both radially by a first wall 4', and axially by a second wall 4'' at an end opposite to the one cooperating with the mobile body 5, so as to define a space 6 inside the hollow body 4.

[0021] In particular, said space 6 is configured to slide the mobile body 5 inside the hollow body 4.

[0022] In detail, the mobile body 5 moves along the longitudinal axis A and is configured to be at least partially housed in the space 6 of the hollow body 4.

[0023] Preferably, the hollow body 4 has a circular cross-section, thus defining a hollow cylinder. Similarly, the mobile body 5 has a complementary shape to that of space 6 and therefore, in the shape illustrated below, cylindrical.

[0024] In particular, the mobile body 5 includes a main portion 5' and a head 5''. In particular, the main portion 5' extends radially less than the head 5'' with respect to the longitudinal axis A, i.e. the head 5'' has a larger diameter than the main portion 5'.

[0025] Advantageously, the mobile body 5 is movable inside the space 6 in a sealed manner, i.e. in such a way as to keep the space 6 isolated from the external environment.

[0026] For this purpose, the damping system 2 includes sealing means 8. Specifically, the sealing means 8 include one or more hydraulic seals 8' connected, for example by means of a threaded element such as a screw, to the main body 5'.

[0027] Preferably, the wall 4'' of the hollow body 4 also includes sealing means. In particular, the sealing means includes a round stop of a predefined diameter and a gasket configured both to ensure a watertight seal of the hollow body 4 when the mobile body 5 moves along the longitudinal axis A and to resist a pressure that develops during such movement.

[0028] Conveniently, the round stop is a steel washer.

[0029] A wall of the hollow body 4 comprises an opening 7 configured to allow selective fluidic communication of the space 6 with an environment external, i.e. said opening 7 is configured to let air exit / enter from / into said space 6.

[0030] Preferably, said opening 7 is a calibrated hole, possibly housing vent valve means. In detail, said calibrated hole has a diameter of approximately one millimeter.

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, the damping system 2 comprises first damping means 9 housed in the space 6 of the hollow body 4 and operationally interposed between the mobile body 5 and the hollow body 4.

[0032] In particular, the first damping means 9 includes a coil spring.

[0033] In more detail, this coil spring is coaxial to the axis A.

[0034] Preferably, the first damping means 9 are made of stainless steel or carbon steel.

[0035] The damping system 2 also includes second damping means 10 operationally interposed between the mobile body 5 and the hollow body 4 housed outside the space 6.

[0036] According to the present embodiment, the second damping means 10 are placed externally and coaxially to the mobile body 5 and act between the head 5" of the same and an external edge of the hollow body 4.

[0037] Preferably, the second damping means 10 also includes a coil spring. In particular, the diameter of the coil spring of the second damping means 10 is greater than that of the first damping means 9. Preferably, the coil spring wire of the second damping means 10 is also larger than that of the first damping means 9.

[0038] In more detail, said coil spring is coaxial to the axis A and therefore coaxial to the coil spring of the first damping means 9.

[0039] Conveniently, the second damping means 10 are made of carbon steel.

[0040] Conveniently, said first damping means 9 and said second damping means 10 are placed in parallel with each other with respect to the mobile body 5 and the hollow body 4.

[0041] Furthermore, they operate along the same longitudinal axis A in such a way that a compression of the first damping means 9 causes a compression of the second damping means 10 and a release of said first damping means 9 causes a release of the said second damping means 10.

[0042] The damping system 2 may also include third damping means 11 operationally interposed between the mobile body 5 and a portion of the firearm 1.

[0043] In particular, the third damping means 11 are placed coaxially to the longitudinal axis A and therefore to the first and second damping means 9, 10. In detail, they are placed outside the mobile body 5 and the hollow body 4.

[0044] Preferably, said third damping means 11 are made of stainless steel with a mirror polished finish and with dedicated dimensions to reduce the tolerances in order to minimize the vibration frequency during use.

[0045] Alternatively, the third damping means 11 are made of carbon steel.

[0046] Advantageously, the damping system 2 comprises limit switch elements 12 positioned respectively at one end 13 of the hollow body 4 and at one end 14 of the mobile body 5 opposite said hollow body 4 along the axis A.

[0047] Preferably, these limit switch elements 12 include bumpers made of deformable material. In detail, this deformable material includes anti-vibration elastomer and steel.

[0048] Conveniently, the limit switch element 12 is attached to the mobile body 5 by means of a threaded element 15 such as a screw.

[0049] Preferably, the limit switch element 12 is attached to the second wall 4'' of the hollow body 4 by means of a threaded element 16 such as a screw.

[0050] The assembly step of the embodiment of the damping system according to the invention described above is as follows.

[0051] Generally, either for initial use, during production, or after maintenance and / or inspection of the damping system 2, it is necessary to assemble the damping system 2 before it is housed in the firearm 1.

[0052] Conveniently, the damping system 2 is housed in a resting condition in firearm 1, wherein the first damping means 9 and the second damping means 10 are extended and a volume of air is contained within the space 6 of the hollow body 4.

[0053] The assembly step of the damping system 2 includes the housing of the mobile body 5 in the space 6 of the hollow body 4.

[0054] In particular, the assembly phase includes the insertion of the mobile body 5 inside the space 6 of the hollow body 4 and a subsequent return of the mobile body 5 to the resting condition.

[0055] In detail, the mobile body 5 operates along the longitudinal axis A within the space 6 of the hollow body 4, sliding towards the hollow body 4 along the direction of axis A and then in an opposite direction to the hollow body 4 along the direction of axis A to configure a resting condition.

[0056] In particular, when the mobile body 5 slides towards the hollow body 4, it causes a maximum compression of the first damping means 9, of the second damping means 10 and a compression of a volume of air contained in the space 6 of the hollow body 4.

[0057] Subsequently, the damping system 2 returns to the rest position under the pressure of the third damping means 11, and, at the same time, the mobile body 5 slides in the opposite direction to the hollow body 4 along the axis A, configuring the rest condition, i.e. the condition in which the damping system 2 is housed in the firearm 1.

[0058] In particular, the sliding of the mobile body 5 in the opposite direction with respect to the hollow body 4 is operated by the extension of the first damping means 9, by the extension of the second damping means 10 and by the expansion of the volume of compressed air contained in the space 6.

[0059] In detail, in the resting condition the second damping means 10 are also extended.

[0060] The volume of compressed air inserted and therefore contained in the space 6 during the sliding of the mobile body 5 in the space 6 of the hollow body 4 is greater than the volume of air contained in the space 6 when the damping system 2 is in the resting condition (and therefore the damping means 9, 10 are extended).

[0061] Therefore, when the damping system 2 returns to the resting condition following the expansion of the first damping means 9, the air inside the space 6 of the hollow body 4 tends to expand to the volume of air inserted during the insertion of the mobile body 5 into the space 6 of the hollow body 4.

[0062] In other words, the return of the damping system 2 to the resting condition following the insertion of the mobile body 5 causes an excessive displacement of the mobile body 5 along the longitudinal axis A in the opposite direction to that of insertion, namely an excessive displacement with respect to the maximum development of these first damping means 9 due to the excess air volume contained in the space 6.

[0063] Advantageously, the opening 7 of the wall 4" of the hollow body 4 is configured to put the space 6 in fluid communication with the external environment, so that said opening 7 is configured to let out the volume of air in excess of the maximum development of said first damping means 9.

[0064] This ensures the return position to the resting state (or zero return phase) configured during the assembly of damping system 2. By way of example and not limitation, excessive displacement of the mobile body 5 described above may also occur due to changed atmospheric conditions in the time interval between the assembly phase and a first operating cycle.

[0065] The operation of the embodiment of the damping system 2 according to the invention described above is as follows.

[0066] Figures 4, 5 and 6 schematically and sequentially illustrate successive phases of an operating cycle at the time of firing the damping system 2.

[0067] Figure 4 schematically illustrates the resting condition of the damping system 2 before a shot is fired. In particular, the damping system 2 is kept coaxial to the hollow body 4, therefore in the space 6, in the resting condition by means of the third damping means 11.

[0068] In use, therefore at the time of firing, the damping system 2 undergoes a coaxial retraction to the hollow body 4, inside the seat 3 of the firearm 1. In detail, the mobile body 5, due to the retrograde force due to an expansion of the flue gases, slides along the direction of the A-axis towards the hollow body 4. In particular, the mobile body 5 operates in the space 6 of the hollow body 4. In detail, the sliding of the mobile body 5 inside the hollow body 4 causes maximum compression of the first damping means 9 and the second damping means 10.

[0069] In other words, when firing, the damping system 2 slides inside the seat 3 of the firearm 1 in the direction of one end of the seat 3 along the direction of the sliding of the mobile body 5. In detail, the damping system 2 runs coaxially to the third damping means 11. In particular, when this end is reached, since it can no longer slide inside seat 3, the first damping means 9 and the second damping means 10 are compressed. In detail, the damping system 2, at the time of firing, applies a calibrated resistance by absorbing the peak force due to the recoil, which, otherwise, would be completely discharged on firearm 1 and on the shooter.

[0070] In particular, the sliding of the mobile body 5 causes a compression of the air contained within the space 6 of the hollow cylinder 4.

[0071] As shown in Figure 6, at the end of the operating cycle, the compressed air within the space 6 expands and the damping means 9, 10 returns to its initial resting condition.

[0072] Conveniently, the damping system 2 is an isobaric system.

[0073] In particular, when the mobile body 5 flows inside the hollow body 4, the air contained in the space 6 undergoes compression in which it exceeds an environmental pressure value; at the end of the operating cycle, the air contained in the space 6 returns to isobaric equilibrium with the external environment by means of the opening 7.

[0074] Advantageously, at the end of the operating cycle, in the event of an overpressure inside space 6 of the hollow body 4, a part of the volume of air contained at the end of the operating cycle inside the space 6 escapes through the opening 7, thus restoring the normal operating pressure in the resting condition.

[0075] From the above, the advantages of the damping system 2 according to the invention are evident.

[0076] Firstly, the damping system 2 does not include pressurised oil and / or gas that can be influenced by external climatic conditions, so there is no risk of spillage of liquids and / or gases into the external environment with a consequent reduction in the damping capacity of the system itself.

[0077] The damping system 2 is an isobaric system, so it is not affected by changes in ambient pressure and a pressure-controlled environment is not required for assembly.

[0078] Due to the small tolerances between the mobile body 5, an outer wall of the hollow body 4 and the third damping means 11 of the damping system 2, the noise produced by the operating cycle is almost zero, unlike standard systems on the AR platform 15 where the noise of the damping means (in particular the springs) is classic.

[0079] The damping system 2 allows operation with a wide temperature range and can be inspected for any maintenance and / or addition of a lubricant (e.g. silicone and teflon grease on the gaskets).

[0080] In addition, thanks to the dimensions of the system, the use of multiple linear damping devices, the use of elastomer limit stroke pads that absorb vibrations and shocks, the damping system 2 reduces the vibrations produced by the firing cycle, producing an advantage in terms of: recoil angle reduction, drift angle reduction, elevation angle reduction, which directly overturns on an obvious advantage in terms of containing the pattern of shots on the target, increasing their concentration even by adopting a high rate of fire.

[0081] In particular, the damping system 2 dampens the impact of the firing cycle both in the expansion phase of the gases produced by combustion, and in the return to zero phase of the closing parts of firearm 1 (i.e. the bolt) and thanks also to the distribution of the mass, so the "bolt bounce" effect is non-existent.

[0082] Finally, the damping of the recoil of firearm 1 in contact with the shooter's body reduces its impact and avoids muscle soreness of the parts in contact with the stock of the weapon, especially after long shooting sessions.

[0083] Finally, it is clear that the damping system 2 according to the present invention can be modified and variated, but these do not fall outside the scope of protection defined by the claims.

[0084] For example, according to an alternative form of actuation, the second means of damping 10 are placed internally and coaxially to the mobile body 5.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0013]Figure 1 illustrates a firearm 1, such as an AR 15 platform-based carbine with semi-automatic operation as illustrated.

[0014]As is well known, the firearm comprises a stock 1', a grip portion 1'' and a barrel 1‴ connected to each other and extending along a longitudinal axis A of the weapon.

[0015]In particular, the firearm 1 includes a damping system 2, in detail housed in the stock 1' as described in detail below.

[0016]In detail, the damping system 2 is housed in seat 3 defined by a portion of the calcium 1'.

[0017]In particular, as is known, this seat 3 is defined by a support structure (also called "buffer tube") of the firearm 1.

[0018]The damping system 2, as better visible in Figures 2 and 3, essentially comprises a hollow body 4 and a mobile body 5 with respect to the hollow body 4 as described in more detail below.

[0019]Preferably, the hollow body 4 is made of brass or aluminum.

[0020]Referring to the hollow body 4, this develops along the longitudinal axis A and is delim...

Claims

1. Damping system (2) for a firearm (1) comprising a hollow body (4) of longitudinal axis (A), said hollow body (4) defining a space (6), said damping system (2) comprising a mobile body (5) along the longitudinal axis (A) housed at least partially in space (6), said damping system (2) also including first damping means (9) housed in space (6) and operationally interposed between said mobile body (5) and said hollow body (4), said damping system (2) including second damping means (10) outside the space (6) operationally interposed between said mobile body (5) and said hollow body (4); wherein said hollow body (4) defines an opening (7) configured to allow selective fluidic communication of space (6) with the external environment.

2. Damping system according to claim 1, wherein said second damping means (10) are placed coaxially around the mobile body (5).

3. Damping system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first damping means (9) and the second damping means (10) are operationally parallel to each other.

4. Damping system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said space (6) is delimited by the hollow body (4) and by the mobile body (5) that slides in the hollow body (4), said space (6) being fluidically separated from the external environment.

5. Damping system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first damping means (9) and the second damping means (10) are coaxial.

6. Damping system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the damping means (9,10) are coil springs.

7. Damping system according to any of the preceding claims, said damping system (2) comprising at least two limit switch elements (12) placed respectively at one end (13) of the hollow body (4) and at one end (14) of the mobile body (5) opposite to said hollow body (4).

8. Damping system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said damping system (2) also includes third damping means (11) operationally interposed between the mobile body (5) and a portion of the firearm (1).

9. Damping system according to claim 8, wherein said third damping means (11) are placed coaxially with said second damping means (10).

10. Damping system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said second damping means (10) are made of carbon steel or stainless steel.

11. Damping system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hollow body (4) is made of brass.

12. Damping system according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the hollow body (4) is made of metal alloy.

13. Damping system according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein said third damping means (11) are made of stainless steel.

14. Firearm (1) including a damping system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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