Backward movement energy dissipation system and method for use in a firearm

Abstract

Backward movement energy dissipation system and method for use in a firearm wherein the dissipation system comprises a movable element which is movable between a first condition corresponding to a first position of the slide of the firearm and a second final condition corresponding to a second position of the slide of the firearm, wherein the passage of the movable element from the first condition to the second condition occurs by rotation of the movable element on itself with dissipation of at least part of the energy of the explosion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a backward movement energy dissipation system for use in a firearm according to the characteristics of the pre-characterizing part of claim 1.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a firearm provided with such a dissipation system.

[0003] The present invention also relates to a backward movement energy dissipation method for use in a firearm.Prior Art

[0004] Several solutions are known in the field of dissipation systems for self-loading firearms.

[0005] In delayed short-backward movement systems with a break-action barrel, such as the Browning type, the barrel and the slide-breechblock system move backward together for the first few millimetres of travel. The two sections remain together thanks to the part of the barrel which, via rings on the barrel or by engaging the rear barrel block with the ejection port, retains the slide-breechblock system. Subsequently, the rear part of the barrel swings downward, allowing the slide to move backward freely and accomplish its cycle of ejection and feeding of the new cartridge.

[0006] In delayed short-backward movement systems with an oscillating block and piston, such as of Walther type, the barrel and the slide-breechblock system move backward together for the first few millimetres. The two sections remain together thanks to the presence of the oscillating block which is at the bottom of the barrel. When the rear part of the barrel reaches its limit, the piston is pushed forward and this causes the oscillating block to lower. This thus allows the release of the slide-breech block system, allowing the accomplishment of the cycle of ejection and feeding of the new cartridge.

[0007] In delayed short-backward movement systems with a rotary-translating barrel, the barrel and the slide-breechblock system move backward together for the first millimetres. The two sections remain together thanks to notches which are on the slide, which are locked by protrusions present on the barrel. When the barrel reaches its limit, it begins to rotate on its own axis thanks to oblique millings which are present on the barrel. When the barrel finishes rotating, the slide is free to move backward and to accomplish its cycle of ejection and feeding of the new cartridge.

[0008] In gas-delayed systems with piston, following the explosion, a small amount of the explosion gas is directed towards a hole which is connected to a piston attached to the slide of the weapon. The gas force keeps the slide pushed forward, slowing the travel of the slide-breech block system to a minimum, allowing the pressure peak released by the cartridge to be overcome. When the bullet exits the barrel, the pressure exerted manages to escape through the muzzle of the barrel, freeing the piston and the slide-breechblock system to freely accomplish a cycle.

[0009] In blowback systems, the slide-breech block system delays its opening using only its own weight and the force of a backward movement spring.

[0010] Chinese patent application CN110631409 describes a spiral reverse backward movement structure, a free-floating stock, and a firearm. The spiral reverse backward movement structure comprises a breechblock and a first damper assembly to decompose the backward movement force of the breechblock. The first damper assembly comprises a connector that moves linearly with the breechblock and an adapter that converts the energy of the linear motion into rotational energy. In the spiral reverse backward movement structure, the breechblock is used to trigger the firing of ammunition and, after firing, it generates a relatively high backward movement force; the backward movement force of the breechblock can be dampened by the first damper assembly, the backward movement of the breechblock is converted into rotational energy through the adapter, and the rearward torque is decomposed into left-right rotational torque; in connection with the secondary damper group, the free-floating stock is used to reduce the impact of the backward movement force generated by ammunition outside the chamber on the shooter; for large-calibre weapons, the backward movement force is minimized and the overall dimensions are reduced.

[0011] U.S. Patent Application No. 2807113 describes, in conjunction with a rifle, a self-loading mechanism comprising a tubular slide mounted on the stock of the rifle and slidable forward of it, and extended rearward of it, and provided at its rear end with a shoulder engaging bearing, a piston slidably inserted in the slide, a sleeve telescopically mounted on the forward end of the piston and extending from the front end of the slide to contact the frame of the rifle, a backward movement absorbing spring contained in the slide and acting against the piston to urge it forward after the backward movement forces have been dissipated, a backward movement absorbing spring acting against the sleeve and the piston to urge the sleeve forward along the piston when the backward movement forces are dissipated, means by which relative telescopic movements of the sleeve cause it to rotate in opposite directions, and means operatively connecting the sleeve to the operating arm of the breechblock of the rifle, so that its rotational movements in opposite directions cause the unlocking and locking of the breechblock.

[0012] U.S. Patent Application No. 5343649 describes a backward movement absorber mounted on a weapon that dampens and absorbs the backward movement force of the weapon during firing. The backward movement absorber comprises a closed, fluid-filled cylinder provided with a first end and a second end. A piston is inserted into the cylinder and slides along the cylinder's longitudinal axis, while a spring is compressed between the piston and the first end. The cylinder defines channels on a diametrically external surface, the channels exhibiting a helical twist centred on the longitudinal axis, causing the piston to rotate during translation.Problems of prior art

[0013] With reference to delayed short-backward movement systems with a break-action barrel, such as the Browning type, the change in barrel axis during the backward movement energy dissipation action creates a tangential force relative to the weapon's axis which tends to lift the weapon and the user's arm, resulting in reduced accuracy. Furthermore, these systems limit the applicability of accessories, as the added weight to the barrel risks compromising its functioning. Furthermore, this configuration causes the tip of the weapon to rise, a non-indifferent phenomenon known as "muzzle climb," which, combined with the impact of the lower part of the barrel with the receiver of the weapon, causes a non-indifferent backward movement.

[0014] With reference to delayed short-backward movement systems with an oscillating block and piston, such as of Walther type, the oscillating block is a point subject to high pressures and will require replacement after a few thousand shots. Furthermore, the mechanism is exposed to external agents with the consequence that dirt and sand can compromise the action of the oscillating block.

[0015] With reference to delayed short-backward movement systems with a rotary-translating barrel, the application of accessories to the barrel is problematic because it can prevent the system from functioning properly.

[0016] With reference to gas-delayed systems with piston, extremely precise tolerances are required for manufacturing. Furthermore, the system is difficult to apply to weapons using low-pressure ammunition, as after a prolonged period of use the receiver tends to heat up due to thermal conduction caused by the heat released by the gas used to act on the piston.

[0017] With reference to blowback systems, they are expensive in terms of weight and volume, and are also uncomfortable during closing due to the forward movement of the mass.Aim of the invention

[0018] The aim of the present invention is to provide a backward movement energy dissipation system for use in a firearm.

[0019] The aim of the present invention is also to provide a firearm provided with such a dissipation system.

[0020] A further aim of the present invention is to provide a backward movement energy dissipation method for use in a firearm.Concept of the invention

[0021] The aim is achieved with the characteristics of the main claim. The dependent claims represent advantageous solutions.Advantageous effects of the invention

[0022] The solution according to the present invention, through its considerable creative contribution, the effect of which constitutes an immediate and not negligible technical progress, offers several advantages.

[0023] The system according to the present invention is effective in dissipating kinetic energy.

[0024] The system according to the present invention keeps the barrel on its axis, positioned particularly low, maximally mitigating backward movement without compromising the precision of the firearm.

[0025] The system according to the present invention is applicable to a wide range of calibres.

[0026] The system according to the present invention allows for easy conversion of a firearm from one calibre into another.

[0027] The system according to the present invention allows for a fixed or semi-fixed barrel, except for a translation along a single axis, with a retracting slide, allowing to apply any accessory without compromising the functioning of the backward movement energy dissipation system of the weapon, making the firearm also suitable for the use of a large number of accessories.

[0028] The system according to the present invention is impervious to external contamination as it is encapsulated under the slide or the retracting element of the firearm.

[0029] The system according to the present invention can be applied to a firearm not initially provided with such a system.

[0030] The system according to the present invention allows for a very low barrel centre of gravity.

[0031] The system according to the present invention requires minimal space inside the firearm.Description of the drawings

[0032] A realization solution is described hereinafter with reference to the attached drawings which are to be considered as a non-limiting example of the present invention, in which: Fig. 1 represents a view of the dissipation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in a condition not installed on a weapon. Fig. 2 illustrates a partially exploded view of the system of Fig. 1. Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, and Fig. 9 illustrate an operating sequence of the inventive dissipation system. Fig. 10 represents a cross-section of the movable element of the dissipation system of Fig. 1. Fig. 11 represents a front view of the movable element of the dissipation system of Fig. 1. Fig. 12 represents a view of the support of the dissipation system of Fig. 1. Fig. 13 represents a side view of the movable element of the dissipation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 14 represents a side view of the movable element of the dissipation system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 15 represents a perspective view of the movable element of the dissipation system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 16 represents a perspective view of the dissipation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention in a condition not installed on a weapon. Fig. 17 illustrates a side view of the dissipation system of Fig. 16. Fig. 18 illustrates a view of the dissipation system according to the present invention in an installed condition. Fig. 19 and Fig. 20 represent views of a possible embodiment of the movable element of the dissipation system according to the present invention in a configuration that can be opened for installation. Fig. 21 represents a perspective view of the dissipation system of Fig. 1 in a partially installed condition. Fig. 22 represents a perspective view of the dissipation system of Fig. 1 in the installed condition. Fig. 23, Fig. 24, Fig. 25, Fig. 26 represent the assembly of a support for a possible embodiment of the dissipation system according to the present invention. Fig. 27 represents a view of a firearm equipped with the dissipation system according to the present invention. Fig. 28 represents a side view of the movable element of the dissipation system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 29 represents a side view of the dissipation system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. Definitions

[0033] Throughout the present description and the attached claims, the term "firearm" is to be understood as generically referring to rifles, pistols, self-loading firearms provided with a retracting element that allows the ejection of a cartridge case by moving back.Description of the invention

[0034] The present invention relates to (Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig.16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 21, Fig. 22, Fig. 27, Fig. 29) a backward movement energy dissipation system (1) for use in a firearm (35). The firearm (35) comprises a slide (2) and a barrel (3) for the exit of a bullet following an explosion, wherein the slide (2) and the barrel (3) are reciprocally movable with respect to each other between a first rest position before the explosion and a second retracted position in response to the explosion. It will be evident that the inventive dissipation system (1) is applicable both to the case in which the slide (2) constitutes the movable element and the barrel (3) is a fixed element, and to the case in which the slide (2) constitutes a fixed element and the barrel (3) is a movable element. The term "slide", therefore, both in the present description and in the attached claims, must not be understood as necessarily indicating a movable element, it being important, for the purposes of the present invention, that the slide (2) and the barrel (3) are reciprocally movable with respect to each other in a direction comprising at least one axial component.

[0035] The dissipation system (1) comprises (Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 13, Fig. 14, Fig. 15, Fig. 19, Fig. 20, Fig. 28) a movable element (7) which is movable between a first condition corresponding to the first reciprocal position of slide (2) and barrel (3) and a second final condition corresponding to the second reciprocal position of slide (2) and barrel (3), wherein the passage of the movable element (7) from the first condition to the second condition involves a dissipation of at least part of the energy of the explosion, wherein the movable element (7) has a cylindrical shape provided with a hollow (19) placed concentrically with respect to a first axis (11) of the cylindrical shape for application of the movable element (7) on a housing (20) of the barrel (3) in such a way that the movable element (7) is placed around the barrel (3) which is placed inside the hollow (19). The movable element (7) comprises an external surface (25). On the external surface (25) there is a series of longitudinal grooves (9', 9", 9"') provided with at least one oblique portion (23, 24) with respect to a second axis (10) parallel to the first axis (11) and placed on the external surface (25). The dissipation system (1) further comprises (Fig. 2, Fig. 12, Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 23, Fig. 24, Fig. 25, Fig. 26) a series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) for application on a fixed element selected between slide (2) and barrel (3) in such a way that each pin of the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) is in an engagement condition within a corresponding groove of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) in such a way that when the passage from the first to the second reciprocal position of the slide (2) and the barrel (3) occurs, the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) engaged inside the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) transfers at least part of the backward movement energy to the movable element (7) with energy dissipation by an action of putting in rotation the movable element (7) around the first axis (11).

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment (Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9) the slide (2) constitutes a retracting element with respect to (Fig. 3) the rest position, the retraction occurring following the explosion of a bullet. The movable element (7) is shaped like a cylinder having an axis (11) of symmetry of the cylindrical shape, an external surface (25) and a hollow (19) suitable for housing the barrel (3) inside it and delimited by an internal surface (26). The movable element (7) is positioned in the housing (20) in such a way that, preferably but not necessarily, it is not free to perform any axial translation and is only free to rotate around its own axis (11). The blocking of the axial translation of the movable element (7) occurs by means of a first rabbet element (4) and a second rabbet element (5) which protrude externally from the external surface of the barrel (3) in such a way as to form the housing (20) for the movable element (7) between the first rabbet element (4) and the second rabbet element (5). In the operation of the dissipation system (1) it will be possible to distinguish: a forward phase, in which the retracting element, for example the slide (2), performs an axial translation parallel to the first axis (11) of the movable element (7), with charging of an elastic element (13), for example made in the form of a spring or piston or other equivalent system, and with simultaneous sliding of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') in the corresponding series of grooves (9', 9", 9"') involving a rotation of the movable element (7) around its first axis (11) dissipating at least part of the kinetic energy of retraction of the retracting element, for example the slide (2); a return phase, in which the retracting element, for example the slide (2), returns to the initial position by means of the discharging of the elastic element (13) with simultaneous sliding of the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) in the corresponding series of grooves (9', 9", 9"') involving a counter-rotation of the movable element (7) around its first axis (11) according to a direction of rotation opposite to the direction of rotation which occurred in the forward phase.

[0037] For example (Fig. 1, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9) the retracting element, for example the slide (2), may comprise an end element (15) which is in engagement condition with the elastic element (13) to accomplish said charging of the elastic element (13) during the described forward phase in the retraction direction in such a way that the elastic element (13) is charged by the movement of the end element integral with the retracting element, while the elastic element (13) is maintained in a blocked position in correspondence with a respective blocking end (17) within the body of the firearm.

[0038] Following the activation of a firearm trigger, a breechblock (12) triggers the explosion of the ammunition charge, starting the forward phase (Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9). The retracting element, which in the case in which the firearm (35) is a pistol can correspond to the slide (2), moves back following the energy released by the explosion of the ammunition charge, this retraction involving the opening of an ejection port (8) which, through means known to the state of the art present in the firearm, will allow the ejection of the ammunition cartridge case and the charging of a new ammunition, ready for the next trigger pressure. During said forward phase, with the dissipation system (1) according to the present invention, the retraction of the retracting element with the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) involves the sliding of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') in the corresponding series of grooves (9', 9", 9"') present on the external surface (25) of the movable element (7). Thanks to the described inclined conformation of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴), and thanks to the fact that the movable element (7) is placed in the housing (20) around the barrel (3) in such a way that it cannot translate, then the movable element (7) rotates around its own first axis (11), dissipating at least part of the kinetic energy released by the explosion of the ammunition. When the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) has completely covered the longitudinal extension of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴), that is to say when the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') is in a condition of proximity or adjacency with the first rabbet element (5), the forward phase is finished (Fig. 9), the kinetic energy has been dissipated and the retraction of the retracting element which occurred during the forward phase has caused the compression of the elastic element (13).

[0039] As previously explained, the first condition of the movable element (7) and the second condition of the movable element (7) correspond to the same axial position of the movable element (7) with respect to the housing, the transfer of at least part of the backward movement energy to the movable element (7) with energy dissipation occurring through said action of putting in rotation the movable element (7) without axial movement of the movable element (7) with respect to the housing (20). This condition is obtained with a configuration in which the dissipation system (1) comprises a first rabbet element (4) and a second rabbet element (5) which constitute fixed elements placed at opposite ends of the movable element (7) with respect to the longitudinal development of the cylindrical shape, the first rabbet element (4) and the second rabbet element (5) constituting elements blocking the axial movement of the movable element (7) with respect to the housing (20). The first rabbet element (4) and the second rabbet element (5) are preferably but not necessarily placed on the barrel (3).

[0040] In one embodiment (Fig. 29), the dissipation system (1) further comprises an additional energy absorption element (38) in the form of a torsion-spring one head of which is fixed to the movable element (7) for dissipation of additional energy due to elastic charging of the torsion-spring following the action of putting in rotation the movable element (7) for transferring at least part of the backward movement energy.

[0041] Subsequently, during the return phase, the elastic element (13), charged during the forward phase, will discharge the accumulated energy by bringing the retracting element, for example the slide (2), back into position, simultaneously involving a sliding, in a return direction opposite to the forward one, of the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) in the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) present on the external surface (25) of the movable element (7), with counter-rotation of the movable element (7) of the same amplitude but in the opposite direction with respect to the rotation caused in the forward phase.

[0042] In the rest condition (Fig. 3), each pin of the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) is placed at the beginning of its own corresponding groove of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9"') in correspondence with the second rabbet element (5).

[0043] With reference to the oblique configuration of the grooves of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴), the at least one oblique portion (23, 24) of the series of longitudinal grooves (9', 9", 9‴) may be a single straight groove (Fig. 3) and oblique with respect to the second axis or it may be a groove comprising (Fig. 13, Fig. 14, Fig. 28) a first portion (23) and a second portion (24), wherein the first portion (23) is oblique with respect to the second axis (10) with an inclination corresponding to a first angle (36), wherein the second portion (24) is oblique with respect to the second axis (10) with an inclination corresponding to a second angle (37). The first portion (23) and the second portion (24) are groove portions reciprocally placed one after the other and in reciprocal communication so as to form a single groove with two different degrees of inclination. The second angle (37) may be equal to zero so that the second portion (24) is parallel to the second axis (10), the first angle (36) being between 5 degrees and 80 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 60 degrees.

[0044] Alternatively, the first angle (36) may be between 5 degrees and 80 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 60 degrees, the second angle (37) being in turn between 5 degrees and 80 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 60 degrees.

[0045] The different angulation of each first portion (23) of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) with respect to the second portion (24', 24", 24"') of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) allows for the energy dissipation to be modulated during the forward phase and for the return phase to be made more or less rapid.

[0046] In the embodiments in which the first portion (23) of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) is parallel to the first axis (11) of the movable element (7), that is the previously defined first angle (36) is zero, during the opening phase the interaction of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') with the corresponding second portion (24) of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) will cause the retracting element, for example the slide (2), to decelerate from the very first moments of the forward phase. When the peak of energy released by the ammunition is dissipated by the action of putting in rotation the movable element (7), the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) will be in the area corresponding to the first rectilinear and non-oblique portion (23), thus leaving the retracting element free to move until the end of its travel in the terminal part of the forward phase in which the ejection of the empty cartridge case and the charging of a new cartridge takes place. During the return action, the elastic element (13), following the charging which took place during the forward phase, discharges the accumulated energy by accelerating the retracting element towards the starting position with engagement of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') in the zone corresponding to the first rectilinear and non-oblique portion (23), therefore without obstacles. When, in the return phase, the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) engages in the zone corresponding to the second oblique portion (24), there is a consequent deceleration of the retracting element itself following the interaction of the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) with each second portion (24) of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9"') with a counter-rotation of the movable element (7) opposite to that which occurs during the forward phase until the return of the retracting element (2) to its initial position. Therefore, the described cycle composed of the forward and return phases is particularly fluid, since the initial acceleration of the retracting element in the forward phase and the final deceleration of the retracting element in the return phase are both dampened by the second oblique portions (24) of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴).

[0047] The first angle (36) and the second angle (37) can be selected, for example, based on the amount of energy to be dissipated, which in turn also depends on the type of ammunition used.

[0048] For example (Fig. 13), the first portion (23) can be inclined by a first angle of approximately 15 degrees. For example (Fig. 14), the first portion (23) can be inclined by a first angle of approximately 22 degrees.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the movable element (7) can be provided (Fig. 21, Fig. 22) with one or more recesses (27) on its external surface (25) for lightening purposes.

[0050] The dissipation system (1) according to the present invention is applicable to any self-loading firearm (35) having a retracting element and has several advantages: in many prior art dissipation systems for firearm, a blocking system delays the opening during the pressure peak but, at the exact moment in which the blocking system has exhausted its function, the remaining energy or remaining inertia remains in a condition of dissipation without any control. This energy, mitigated only by the mere weight of the slide or retracting element and by the recovery elastic element (13), ends its travel with the end of the forward phase of the slide or retracting element and, depending on the energy remained, there is a non-insignificant rise of the tip of the weapon, a phenomenon known as "muzzle climb", and a non-insignificant uncompensated backward movement. Differently, the movable element (7) of the dissipation system (1) according to the present invention allows the backward movement to be mitigated from the very first moments by keeping the force released by the explosion under control until beyond the peak of physical stress exerted. in many prior art dissipation systems for firearm, the retraction of the retracting element is perceived as abrupt and sudden. Differently, the movable element (7) of the dissipation system (1) according to the present invention mitigates the backward movement from the very first moments by remaining on the horizontal axis for the entire path of the retracting element, cushioning as much as possible the backward movement and the return of the retracting element to the initial position during the return phase. in many prior art dissipation systems for firearm, in order to convert a pistol from one calibre into another, several different measurements, spring and tolerance changes are required to have ideal functioning with different types of cartridges and applied pressures. Differently, without further changes in components, the dissipation system (1) according to the present invention would be able to accept different calibres by replacing only the dissipation system (1). The dissipation system (1) according to the present invention allows to have a semi-fixed barrel, except for a translation along a single axis of the retracting element (2), allowing the application of any accessory without compromising the cycle between forward phase and return phase of the weapon, making the firearm (35) suitable for the use of a wide range of accessories. The dissipation system (1) according to the present invention is impervious to external dirt as it is encapsulated under the slide or retracting element of the firearm (35). The dissipation system (1) according to the present invention can be applied to a firearm (35) initially not provided with such a system, in the form of an accessory kit. The dissipation system (1) according to the present invention allows to have a very low first axis (11) of the barrel, with a corresponding lowering of the centre of gravity. The dissipation system (1) according to the present invention allows to occupy little space inside the firearm (35). The dissipation system (1) according to the present invention, applied to firearms (35) in the form of a pistol, allows the creation of a retracting element in materials of lesser hardness and therefore greater lightness, from which a lighter and more manageable firearm (35) is derived.

[0051] In some embodiments (Fig. 2, Fig. 11, Fig. 19, Fig. 20), the movable element (7) comprises two grooves of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) in which the two grooves are placed according to a reciprocally opposite configuration at 180 degrees on two opposite sides of the external surface (25) of the movable element (7), the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') comprising in turn two pins, each of which is in engaged condition in a respective groove of the two grooves which are present. In this embodiment, therefore, the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) comprises a first groove (9') and a second groove (9") and the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') comprises a first pin (18') engaged in the first groove (9') and a second pin (18") engaged in the second groove (9"). The presence of a second groove (9") and a second pin (9") gives greater robustness to the dissipation system (1) allowing the dissipation of greater kinetic energy without complicating its operation or making its construction more difficult, as well as improving the overall balance.

[0052] In some embodiments (Fig. 15), the movable element (7) comprises three grooves of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) in which the three grooves are placed according to a configuration at 120 degrees on the external surface (25) of the movable element (7), the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) comprising in turn three pins, each of which is in engaged condition in a respective groove of the three grooves which are present. In this embodiment, therefore, the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) comprises a first groove (9'), a second groove (9") and a third groove (9"') and the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') comprises a first pin (18') engaged in the first groove (9'), a second pin (18") engaged in the second groove (9") and a third pin (18‴) engaged in the third groove (9‴). The presence of a third groove (9"') and a third pin (9‴) gives greater robustness to the dissipation system (1) allowing the dissipation of greater kinetic energy, necessary for example for the use of ammunition having a greater explosive charge.

[0053] In some embodiments (Fig.5, Fig.6, Fig.7, Fig.8, Fig.9, Fig.13, Fig.14), each groove of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9"') comprises a corresponding insertion seat (16', 16", 16‴) having an enlarged shape with respect to the shape of the groove in such a way that the insertion seat (16', 16", 16‴) constitutes a pilot-hole for the corresponding pin of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') in the respective groove of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴). This configuration has the purpose of making the very first sliding phase more fluid of each pin in each second portion (23) of each groove. For example, in the case of two grooves, a first groove (9') comprises a first insertion seat (16') to facilitate the insertion of the first pin (18') and a second groove (9") comprises a second insertion seat (16') to facilitate the insertion of the second pin (18"). For example, in the case of three grooves, a first groove (9') comprises a first insertion seat (16') to facilitate the insertion of the first pin (18'), a second groove (9") comprises a second insertion seat (16') to facilitate the insertion of the second pin (18"), a third groove (9"') comprises a third insertion seat (16") to facilitate the insertion of the third pin (18‴).

[0054] Advantageously, the dissipation system (1) according to the present invention is applicable to firearms (35) initially not provided with such a dissipation system (1). For example (Fig. 23, Fig.24, Fig.25, Fig.26), for this purpose, the dissipation system (1) further comprises at least one support (6) having at least one arched part with a radius of curvature corresponding to the radius of the external surface (25) of the movable element (7), in which at least one part of the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) is fixed on the support (6) and protrudes from the support (6) for engagement inside the series of grooves (9', 9", 9"') of the movable element (7). Indeed, in a possible embodiment of the dissipation system (1) the pins of the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) are placed on the support (6) suitable for integral fixing on the retracting element, for example on the slide (2). The support (6), in one embodiment, can be made as a curved element suitable for partially wrapping the movable element (7) so as to allow the engagement of each pin with the corresponding groove. In this case the support (6) can be fixed to the retracting element, for example the slide (2), in a special insertion compartment (29) of the retracting element. The fixing of the support (6) may take place by known means, such as for example a coupling of a first coupling element (22') and of a second coupling element (22") with corresponding first counter-coupling element (31') and second counter-coupling element (31") according to a configuration in which the first counter-coupling element (31') passes through a first hole (30') placed on the retracting element, for example on the slide (2), and the second counter-coupling element (31") passes through a second hole (30") placed on the retracting element, for example on the slide (2). For example, the first counter-coupling element (31') can be threaded and coupled by screwing onto the first coupling element (22') and, similarly, the second counter-coupling element (31") can be threaded and coupled by screwing onto the second coupling element (22"). It will be evident that different known fixing systems can be used, as long as a firm fixing is guaranteed of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') on the retracting element, for example on the slide (2). The presence of a support (6) hosting the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') rather than having a series of pins directly integrated on the retracting element, for example on the slide, allows for greater interchangeability, for example by allowing the replacement of a support (6) provided with two pins (18', 18") for interfacing with a movable element (7) having two grooves (9', 9") with a support (6) provided with three pins (18', 18", 18‴) for interfacing with a movable element (7) having three grooves (9', 9", 9"') without replacing the retracting element, or due to wear of the pins. Consequently, the slide (2) may include a compartment (29) for inserting and fixing the support (6) which supports the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') or part of them. Therefore, at least one part of the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) is applied to the slide (2) in such a way that the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) protrudes from the slide (2) for engagement inside the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) of the movable element (7).

[0055] As anticipated, the dissipation system (1) according to the present invention can be replaced by converting the firearm (35) from one calibre into another. For this purpose, the movable element (7) can be selected from: movable element (7) provided with a slot (14) for application or removal of the movable element (7) with respect to the barrel (3), the movable element (7) being made of a material such as to allow a divarication of the slot (14) for application or removal of the movable element (7) with respect to the barrel (3) and a consequent spring-back to the cylindrical shape; movable element (7) made of at least two reciprocally fixable pieces for application or removal of the movable element (7) with respect to the barrel (3).

[0056] For example (Fig. 19, Fig. 20), the movable element (7) can be provided with a slot (14) that makes the external surface (25) of its cylindrical shape discontinuous so as to allow, by using a divaricating tool (28), for example a pair of pliers, the installation of the movable element (7) in the housing (20) present around the barrel (3).

[0057] With reference to the possibility of having a modification kit applicable to an existing weapon, the dissipation system (1) may also further include the barrel (3) which is shaped for the application of the movable element (7) within the housing (20) of the barrel (3), so as to have immediately available a barrel suitable for the assembly of the movable element (7) even in cases where the existing barrel for a specific existing pistol model would not allow its application. Similarly, it may be provided that the dissipation system (1) may also further comprise the slide (2) which comprises at least one part of the pins of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') so as to immediately have available a slide provided with pins suitable for assembly on the weapon even in cases where the existing slide for a specific existing pistol model would not allow the application of the pins.

[0058] Consequently, the present invention also relates to a set of elements for the modification of a firearm (35) comprising a slide (2) and a barrel (3) for the exit of a bullet following an explosion, wherein the slide (2) is movable with respect to the barrel (3), and further wherein the set of elements for the modification of the firearm (35) comprises a dissipation system (1) for firearm (35) as previously described.

[0059] The present invention also relates to (Fig. 27) a firearm (35) comprising a slide (2) and a barrel (3) for the exit of a bullet following an explosion, wherein the slide (2) is movable with respect to the barrel (3), and further wherein the firearm (35) comprises a dissipation system (1) for firearm (35) as previously described.

[0060] The present invention also relates to a backward movement energy dissipation method for use in a firearm (35) wherein the firearm (35) comprises a slide (2) and a barrel (3) for the exit of a bullet following an explosion, wherein the method comprises a movement phase of the slide (2) with respect to the barrel (3) between a first rest position before the explosion and a second retracted position in response to the explosion. The dissipation system (1) comprises a movable element (7) which is movable between a first condition corresponding to the first position of the slide (2) and a second final condition corresponding to the second position of the slide (2), wherein the movable element (7) has a cylindrical shape provided with a respective first axis (11) of symmetry of the cylindrical shape, wherein the movable element (7) comprises a hollow (19) for application on the barrel (3) in correspondence with a respective housing (20) of the barrel (3) in such a way that the movable element (7) is placed around the barrel (3) which is placed inside the hollow (19). The method comprises a movement phase of the movable element (7) which occurs together with the movement phase of the slide (2) by means of a motion transmission system comprising a series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) placed on an external surface (25) of the movable element (7) and a series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) placed on the slide (2), the movement phase of the movable element (7) being a rotation phase of the movable element (7) around the first axis (11) with dissipation of energy by an action of putting in rotation the movable element (7) around the first axis (11).

[0061] The method may also include an additional phase of further energy dissipation which is a phase of elastic charging of an additional energy absorption element (38), the additional phase of further energy dissipation occurring simultaneously with the rotation phase of the movable element (7), wherein the additional energy absorption element (38) is made in the form of a torsion-spring one head of which is fixed to the movable element (7) for additional energy dissipation by elastic charging of the torsion-spring following the action of putting in rotation the movable element (7) for transferring at least part of the backward movement energy. In the return phase described above, the energy absorption element (38) in the form of a torsion-spring, being in a charged condition with elastic energy storage, returns the accumulated energy by discharging itself and facilitating the return movement to be ready for a subsequent accumulation of energy relating to the explosion of a further shot by the firearm.

[0062] The dissipation system (1) according to the present invention can be made in various sizes without departing from the scope of the present invention. By way of non-limiting example (Fig. 10, Fig. 12): each pin (18', 18", 18‴) may have a diameter between 3 mm and 15 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 8 mm depending on the type of firearm; the movable element (7) may have a first thickness (32') extending between the external surface (25) and the internal surface (26) of the movable element (7) between 2 mm and 10 mm preferably between 2 mm and 4 mm depending on the type of firearm and a second thickness (32") extending between the bottom of each groove (9', 9", 9"') and the internal surface (26) of the movable element (7) such as to have a depth (34) of the groove (9', 9", 9‴) between 1 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 1.5 mm and 3.5 mm depending on the type of firearm, the dimensions of the corresponding pins being consequently defined which must have a corresponding thickness to engage within the respective groove when they are in the condition of insertion within it; each groove (9', 9", 9‴) of the movable element (7) may have a width (33) between 2.5 mm and 15 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 7 mm depending on the type of firearm.

[0063] The movable element (7) may have (Fig. 28) a different length (21) depending on the type of firearm and the dimensions of the housing (20) available on the barrel (3), such as, only by way of a non-limiting example, a length (21) between 20 mm and 100 mm and preferably between 45 mm and 70 mm for a pistol or short weapon.

[0064] With particular reference to the application of the dissipation system (1) to a firearm (35) to be equipped with 9 mm-type ammunition, the following measurements turn out to be advantageous (Fig. 10, Fig. 12): pin (18', 18", 18‴) with a diameter of 4.25 mm; movable element (7) having a first thickness (32') extending between the external surface (25) and the internal surface (26) of the movable element (7) of 3.00 mm and a second thickness (32") extending between the bottom of each groove (9', 9", 9‴) and the internal surface (26) of the movable element (7) of 1.20 mm; groove (9', 9", 9‴) of the movable element (7) having a width (33) of 5.00 mm and a depth (34) of 1.80 mm.

[0065] The retracting element or slide (2) of the dissipation system (1) according to the present invention can be made of various materials corresponding to those commonly used in pistol slides such as steel, aluminum, plastic polymers, titanium.

[0066] The movable element (7) of the dissipation system (1) according to the present invention can be made of different materials such as steel, aluminum, plastic polymers, titanium, depending on the required robustness and the elasticity possibly necessary for the installation of the movable element (7) on the barrel (3).

[0067] Advantageously, the interaction of the pins (18', 18", 18"') with the sides of the grooves (9', 9", 9‴) will decelerate the slide (2) and the breechblock (12) from the very first moments and the pins (18', 18", 18"') will not be subject to large peaks of physical stress as they will be constantly in motion and not "hooked" like other dissipation systems of the prior art.

[0068] By using a similar design, the dissipation system (1) according to the present invention can also be adapted to long weapons such as carbines, rifles, machine guns.

[0069] The description of the present invention has been made with reference to the attached figures in a preferred embodiment of the same, but it is evident that many possible alterations, modifications and variants will be immediately clear to those skilled in the art in the light of the description which precedes. Thus, it should be emphasized that the invention is not limited by the description which precedes, and includes all alterations, modifications and variants in accordance with the attached claims.NOMENCLATURE USED

[0070] With reference to the identification numbers shown in the attached figures, the following nomenclature has been used: 1. Dissipation system 2. Slide 3. Barrel 4. First rabbet element 5. Second rabbet element 6. Support 7. Movable element 8. Ejection port 9'. First groove 9". Second groove 9‴. Third groove 10. Second axis 11. First axis 12. Breechblock 13. Elastic element 14. Slot 15. End element 16'. First seat 16". Second seat 16"'. Third seat 17. End 18'. First pin 18". Second pin 18"'. Third pin 19. Hollow 20. Housing 21. Length 22'. First coupling element 22". Second coupling element 23. First portion 24. Second portion 25. External surface 26. Internal surface 27. Recess 28. Tool 29. Insertion compartment 30'. First hole 30". Second hole 31'. First counter-coupling element 31". Second counter-coupling element 32'. First thickness 32". Second thickness 33. Width 34. Depth 35. Firearm 36. First angle 37. Second angle 38. Energy absorption element

Claims

1. Backward movement energy dissipation system (1) for use in a firearm (35) wherein the firearm (35) comprises a slide (2) and a barrel (3) for the exit of a bullet following an explosion, wherein the slide (2) and the barrel (3) are reciprocally movable with respect to each other between a first rest position before the explosion and a second retracted position in response to the explosion, wherein the dissipation system (1) comprises a movable element (7) which is movable between a first condition corresponding to the first reciprocal position of slide (2) and barrel (3) and a second final condition corresponding to the second reciprocal position of slide (2) and barrel (3), wherein the passage of the movable element (7) from the first condition to the second condition involves a dissipation of at least part of the energy of the explosion, wherein the movable element (7) has a cylindrical shape provided with a hollow (19) concentrically placed with respect to a first axis (11) of the cylindrical shape for application of the movable element (7) on a housing (20) of the barrel (3) in such a way that the movable element (7) is placed around the barrel (3) which is placed inside the hollow (19), the movable element (7) comprising on an external surface (25) a series of longitudinal grooves (9', 9", 9"') provided with at least one oblique portion (23, 24) with respect to a second axis (10) parallel to the first axis (11) and placed on the external surface (25), the dissipation system (1) further comprising a series of pins (18', 18", 18"') for application on a fixed element selected from slide (2) and barrel (3) in such a way that each pin of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') is in engagement condition within a corresponding groove of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) in such a way that when the passage from the first to the second reciprocal position of slide (2) and barrel (2) occurs, the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) engaged with the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) transfers at least part of the backward movement energy to the movable element (7) with dissipation of energy for an action of putting in rotation the movable element (7) around the first axis (11), characterised in that the at least one oblique portion (23, 24) of the series of longitudinal grooves (9', 9", 9"') comprises a first portion (23) and a second portion (24), wherein the first portion (23) is oblique with respect to the second axis (10) with an inclination corresponding to a first angle (36), wherein the second portion (24) is oblique with respect to the second axis (10) with an inclination corresponding to a second angle (37).

2. Backward movement energy dissipation system (1) according to the previous claim, characterised in that the first condition of the movable element (7) and the second condition of the movable element (7) correspond to the same axial position of the movable element (7) with respect to the housing (20), the transfer of at least part of the backward movement energy to the movable element (7) with dissipation of energy occurring for said action of putting in rotation the movable element (7) without axial movement of the movable element (7) with respect to the housing (20).

3. Backward movement energy dissipation system (1) according to the previous claim, characterised in that the dissipation system (1) comprises a first rabbet element (4) and a second rabbet element (5) which constitute fixed elements placed at opposite ends of the movable element (7) with respect to the longitudinal development of the cylindrical shape, the first rabbet element (4) and the second rabbet element (5) constituting blocking elements of the axial movement of the movable element (7) with respect to the housing (20).

4. Backward movement energy dissipation system (1) according to the previous claim, characterised in that the first rabbet element (4) and the second rabbet element (5) are placed on the barrel (3).

5. Backward movement energy dissipation system (1) according to any of the previous claims, characterised in that it further comprises an additional energy absorption element (38) in the form of a torsion-spring one head of which is fixed to the movable element (7) for dissipation of additional energy due to elastic charging of the torsion-spring following the action of putting in rotation the movable element (7) for transferring at least part of the backward movement energy.

6. Backward movement energy dissipation system (1) according to any of the previous claims, characterised in that the first angle (36) is between 5 degrees and 80 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 60 degrees and the second angle (37) is selected from: - second angle (37) equal to zero in such a way that the second portion (24) is parallel to the second axis (10); - second angle (37) between 5 degrees and 80 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 60 degrees.

7. Backward movement energy dissipation system (1) according to any of the previous claims, characterised in that it further comprises at least one support (6) having at least one arched part with a radius of curvature corresponding to the radius of the external surface (25) of the movable element (7), wherein at least one part of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') is fixed on the support (6) and protrudes from the support (6) for engagement inside the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) of the movable element (7), the slide (2) comprising an insertion compartment (29) for insertion and fixing of the support (6).

8. Backward movement energy dissipation system (1) according to any of the previous claims from 1 to 6, characterised in that at least one part of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') is applied on the slide (2) in such a way that the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) protrudes from the slide (2) for engagement inside the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) of the movable element (7).

9. Backward movement energy dissipation system (1) according to any of the previous claims, characterised in that the movable element (7) is selected from - movable element (7) comprising two grooves of said series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) in which the two grooves are placed according to a reciprocally opposite configuration at 180 degrees on two opposite sides of the external surface (25) of the movable element (7); - movable element (7) comprising three grooves of said series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) in which the three grooves are placed according to a configuration at 120 degrees on the external surface (25) of the movable element (7).

10. Dissipation system (1) for firearm (35) according to any of the previous claims, characterised in that each groove of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) comprises a corresponding insertion seat (16', 16", 16"') having an enlarged shape with respect to the shape of the groove in such a way that the insertion seat (16', 16", 16"') constitutes a pilot-hole for the corresponding pin of the series of pins (18', 18", 18"') in the respective groove of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9"').

11. Dissipation system (1) for firearm (35) according to any of the previous claims, characterised in that the movable element (7) is selected from: - movable element (7) provided with a slot (14) for application or removal of the movable element (7) with respect to the barrel (3), the movable element (7) being made of a material such as to allow a divarication of the slot (14) for application or removal of the movable element (7) with respect to the barrel (3) and a consequent spring-back to the cylindrical shape; - movable element (7) made of at least two reciprocally fixable pieces for application or removal of the movable element (7) with respect to the barrel (3).

12. Dissipation system (1) for firearm (35) according to any of the previous claims, characterised in that it further comprises said barrel (3) which is shaped for application of the movable element (7) within said housing (20) of the barrel (3) and it further comprises said slide (2) which comprises at least one part of said pins of the series of pins (18', 18", 18‴).

13. Set of elements for the modification of a firearm (35) comprising a slide (2) and a barrel (3) for the exit of a bullet following an explosion, wherein the slide (2) and the barrel (3) are reciprocally movable with respect to each other, characterised in that it comprises a dissipation system (1) for firearm (35) according to any of the previous claims.

14. Firearm (35) comprising a slide (2) and a barrel (3) for the exit of a bullet following an explosion, wherein the slide (2) and the barrel (3) are reciprocally movable with respect to each other, characterised in that it comprises a dissipation system (1) for firearm (35) according to any of the previous claims from 1 to 12.

15. Backward movement energy dissipation method for use in a firearm (35) wherein the firearm (35) comprises a slide (2) and a barrel (3) for the exit of a bullet following an explosion, wherein the slide (2) and the barrel (3) are reciprocally movable with respect to each other, wherein the method comprises a movement phase of the slide (2) with respect to the barrel (3) between a first rest position before the explosion and a second retracted position in response to the explosion, wherein the dissipation system (1) comprises a movable element (7) which is movable between a first condition corresponding to the first reciprocal position of slide (2) and barrel (3) and a second final condition corresponding to the second reciprocal position of slide (2) and barrel (3), wherein the movable element (7) has a cylindrical shape provided with a respective first axis (11) of symmetry of the cylindrical shape, wherein the movable element (7) comprises a hollow (19) for application on the barrel (3) at a respective housing (20) of the barrel (3) in such a way that the movable element (7) is placed around the barrel (3) which is placed inside the hollow (19), characterised in that the method comprises a movement phase of the movable element (7) which occurs together with said movement phase of the slide (2) by means of a motion transmission system comprising a series of longitudinal grooves (9', 9", 9‴) placed on an external surface (25) of the movable element (7), the grooves of the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴) being provided with at least one oblique portion (23, 24) with respect to a second axis (10) parallel to the first axis (11) and placed on the external surface (25), wherein the at least one oblique portion (23, 24) of the series of longitudinal grooves (9', 9", 9"') comprises a first portion (23) and a second portion (24), wherein the first portion (23) is oblique with respect to the second axis (10) with an inclination corresponding to a first angle (36), wherein the second portion (24) is oblique with respect to the second axis (10) with an inclination corresponding to a second angle (37), the motion transmission system further comprising a series of pins (18', 18", 18‴) placed on the slide (2) for engagement inside the series of grooves (9', 9", 9‴), the movement phase of the movable element (7) being a rotation phase of the movable element (7) around the first axis (11) with energy dissipation by an action of putting in rotation the movable element (7) around the first axis (11) via the pins (18', 18", 18‴).

16. Backward movement energy dissipation method for use in a firearm (35) according to the previous claim, characterised in that it comprises an additional phase of further energy dissipation which is an elastic charging phase of an additional energy absorption element (38), the additional phase of further energy dissipation occurring simultaneously with the rotation phase of the movable element (7), wherein the additional energy absorption element (38) is made in the form of a torsion-spring one head of which is fixed to the movable element (7) for dissipation of additional energy due to elastic charging of the torsion-spring following the action of putting in rotation the movable element (7) for transferring at least part of the backward movement energy.

17. Backward movement energy dissipation method for use in a firearm (35) according to any of the previous claims from 15 to 16, characterised in that the dissipation system is made according to any of the claims from 1 to 12.

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