Launch interference devices and related firearms

Abstract

A firing interference device (3) for a firearm (1) is configured to prevent movement of a safety element (22) to prevent release of a blowback mass (21), and the firing interference device comprises a fixed part (31) configured to be mounted on a cradle (12) and a movable part (34) configured to be mounted on a breech ring (13), wherein the fixed part comprises an electro-hydraulic actuator (32); a control unit (30) configured to control the electro-hydraulic actuator (32); and a cylindrical cam (33) on which the actuator (32) acts, wherein the cylindrical cam (33) is configured to take an upward position and a downward position, and the movable part comprises a first lever (35) and a retaining lever (36) configured to lock the first lever (35), wherein the first lever (35) is a horizontal arm (351) configured to be actuated by the cylindrical cam (33); It includes a vertical arm (352) configured to be coupled to a safety element (22). The retaining lever (36) is configured to allow the safety element (22) to perform a snap motion only when the horizontal arm (351) is engaged by the cylindrical cam (33) when the cylindrical cam (33) is in a lowered position and the retaining lever (36) is separated from the cylindrical cam (33).

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a safety firing interference device for firearms.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a firearm comprising a firing interference device according to the present invention. Background Technology

[0003] Fire interference devices suitable for preventing the movement of safety elements, such as the safety rod of a firearm's breech mechanism, for example, upward movement, are known. The fire interference device prevents the blowback mass from moving rapidly when the firing button is not pressed, or when the firing of ammunition is prohibited or misaligned, such as with a gun in a forested area.

[0004] A known problem with the firing interference device is that it must prevent the safety element from moving in the aforementioned case and during the retraction of the recoil mass, while at the same time ensuring that the same safety element is quickly and reliably released when the firing button is actually pressed while the firearm is in a state where it can fire ammunition.

[0005] It is actually a well-known problem in the relevant technical field not only to implement an actuator that possesses both reliability and responsiveness, but also to implement a reliable, responsive, and easy-to-manufacture and maintain kinematic chain to transmit motion from the actuator to the locking element of the safety element.

[0006] In particular, this problem is evident in light of the fact that while the firing pin or blowback mass is located in the recoil section of the firearm and the safety element must also be placed in the movable section, the control unit of the firing interference device is located in the stationary section of the firearm, specifically the cradle, for safety reasons. Consequently, designing a stable and reliable motion transmission chain is a difficult task. The problem to be solved

[0007] The present invention aims to solve these problems and other technical problems experienced by the prior art by providing a reliable and safe launch interference device. means of solving the problem

[0008] One aspect of the present invention relates to a launch interference device having the features described in the appended claim 1.

[0009] An additional aspect of the present invention relates to a firearm having the features described in appended claim 9.

[0010] Auxiliary features are described in their respective dependent claims.

[0011] The features and advantages of the device and firearm according to the present invention will become more apparent in light of the following description of at least one exemplary but non-limiting embodiment and the accompanying drawings summarized below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0012] FIG. 1 shows a schematic projected perspective view of a part of a firearm including a firing interference device according to the present invention. FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a possible embodiment of a firing interference device according to the present invention, which acts on a safety element and a reloading lever of a blowback mass. FIG. 3a shows a partial side cross-sectional view of a possible embodiment of a launch interference device according to the present invention. FIG. 3b shows a detailed plan view of a possible embodiment of a mechanical transmission connected to an electro-hydraulic actuator. FIG. 4a shows a perspective view of a possible embodiment of an electro-hydraulic actuator included in a launch interference device. FIG. 4b shows a possible example of an electric and hydraulic circuit diagram of an electro-hydraulic actuator. FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a possible embodiment of a launch interference device acting on a safety element in a first operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator is turned off. FIG. 6 shows a detailed side view of the launch interference device of FIG. 5 acting on the safety element in a first operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator is turned off. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the launch interference device of FIG. 5 in a second operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator is turned on. FIG. 8 shows a side view of the launch interference device of FIG. 7 acting on the safety element in a second operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator is turned on. FIG. 9a shows an additional detailed side view of a launch interference device illustrating the interaction between the stationary part and the movable part in a first operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator is turned off. FIG. 9b shows a detailed side view of the launch interference device of FIG. 9a illustrating the interaction between the fixed part and the movable part in a second operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator is turned on. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0013] Referring to the drawings listed above, reference numeral 3 refers to the entire firing interference device, and reference numeral 1 refers to the entire firearm.

[0014] The firing interference device (3) according to the present invention is particularly suitable for inclusion in a firearm (1) according to the present invention, for example, a mechanical impact type firearm.

[0015] The firing interference device (3) according to the present invention is configured to be suitable for preventing movement of the safety element (22) included in the breech (2) of the firearm (1). In particular, the safety element (22) is configured to be suitable for preventing the release of the blowback mass (21) in cases where the firing button is not pressed or the firing of the firearm (1) is prohibited (e.g., a cannon in a forest area or in an unaligned state).

[0016] Preferably, the firing interference device (3) according to the present invention is hydraulically operated and electrically controlled by the firing control logic of the firearm (1).

[0017] The above-mentioned firing interference device (3) includes a fixed part (31) configured to be fixedly mounted on the ceiling of the cradle (12) of the firearm (1); and a movable part (34) configured to be mounted on the chamber ring (13) of the firearm (1).

[0018] For the purposes of this specification, "fixedly ceiling-mounted" means that the upper part of the fixed portion (31) is connected to the ceiling or upper wall of a housing in which the fixed portion (31) of the launch interference device (3) is at least partially accommodated.

[0019] The above fixed part (31) includes an electro-hydraulic actuator (32) suitablely configured to be connected to a hydraulic circuit (19) included in the firearm (1); a control unit (30) suitablely configured to electrically control the electro-hydraulic actuator (32); and a cylindrical cam (33) that acts to actuate the electro-hydraulic actuator (32).

[0020] The above cylindrical cam (33) is suitably configured to take a first configuration or a rising configuration and a second configuration or a falling configuration.

[0021] The above-mentioned movable part (34) again includes a first lever (35) and a holding lever (36).

[0022] The first lever (35) further comprises a plurality of arms, specifically a first arm or horizontal arm (351) configured to act upon the cylindrical cam (33); and a second arm or vertical arm (352) configured to act upon the safety element (22).

[0023] The above holding lever (36) is configured to lock the first lever (35) while the recoil mass (14) of the firearm (1) is counter-recoiled.

[0024] The retaining lever (36) is suitably configured so that the first lever (35) releases the safety element (22) and allows it to move rapidly, for example, upward, only when the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35) is coupled by the cylindrical cam (33) which is the second configuration or lowering configuration. This is, for example, when the system is properly aligned out of the forest area and the launch button is pressed. Specifically, the cylindrical cam (33) rotates about its axis (330).

[0025] More generally, while the cylindrical cam (33) is transitioning from the first configuration or rising configuration to the second configuration or lowering configuration, the cylindrical cam (33) acts on the retaining lever (36) to remove the retaining lever from the first arm or horizontal arm (351) before the cylindrical cam (33) itself begins to act on the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35). In practice, while the retracting mass (14) is returning, the retaining lever (36) moves away from the cylindrical cam (33) before the cylindrical cam (33) strikes and engages the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35).

[0026] The firing interference device (3) according to the present invention prevents the safety element (22) from moving when the firing button is not pressed or when the firing of ammunition by the firearm is prohibited, but at the same time allows the safety element (22) to be quickly and reliably released when the firing button is actually pressed and the firearm (1) is in a state where it can fire ammunition. The firing interference device (3) according to the present invention has been proven to have excellent reliability and responsiveness due to the type of actuator adopted. Likewise, the transmission of motion from the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) to the first lever (35) is reliable and responsive, simple to manufacture, and easy to maintain. In addition, the firing interference device (3) operates reliably even though the fixed part (31) is fixed to the cradle (12) and the movable part (34) is fixed to the chamber ring (13).

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the launch interference device (3) according to the present invention, the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is advantageously enclosed within a sealed box (320) and comprises a hydraulic piston (321) including a chamber (321A) and a rod (321B); and a solenoid valve (322). The solenoid valve (322) is suitably configured to control the hydraulic piston (321) as a function of power (e.g., a DC voltage of 28VDC) applied to the solenoid valve (322) by the control unit (30). The solenoid valve (322) is powered via a power cable, preferably a dedicated cable, connected to the control unit (30).

[0028] Specifically, the solenoid valve (322) is configured to appropriately control the flow of oil circulating under pressure in the hydraulic circuit (19) to the chamber (321A) of the hydraulic piston (321), thereby moving the rod (321B) inside or outside the hydraulic piston (321). Preferably, the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is a hydraulic piston (321) controlled by the solenoid valve (322). For example, in a configuration where a 28V DC voltage is supplied to the solenoid valve (322), the solenoid valve allows the pressurized oil to flow into the chamber (321A) of the hydraulic piston (321), thereby causing the rod (321B) to return into the hydraulic piston (321). In a preferred embodiment, the solenoid valve (322) includes an inlet (322A) through which oil can be introduced, an outlet (322B) through which oil can be discharged, and a shut-off valve (3221).

[0029] In a possible embodiment of the launch interference device (3) according to the present invention, the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) acts on the cylindrical cam (33) via a mechanical transmission (324) through its movable part, specifically the rod (321B).

[0030] In a possible embodiment of the launch interference device (3) according to the present invention, the mechanical transmission (324) includes a fork-shaped lever (324A) and an external lever (324B).

[0031] The fork-shaped lever (324A) is connected to the movable part of the electro-hydraulic actuator (32), specifically the rod (321B), at one end, specifically the branched end, while at the opposite end it is hinged to the outer lever (324B).

[0032] The outer lever (324B) is hinged to the fork-shaped lever (324A) at its first end, while being hinged to the cylindrical cam (33) at the opposite end. Specifically, the outer lever (324B) is hinged to the cylindrical cam (33) by a pin (331).

[0033] In one possible embodiment, the external lever (324B) is suitably configured to rotate around the same axis as the axis on which the cylindrical cam (33) rotates. The cylindrical cam (33) is suitably configured to rotate around an axis (330), which is parallel to the axis in the direction in which the movable part (34) of the launch interference device (3) moves during the retraction and return of the retracting mass (14). Specifically, the profile of the cylindrical cam (33) is formed so that the movable part (34) of the launch interference device (3) can slide without interference in motion when the cylindrical cam (33) is in the first configuration or the rising configuration.

[0034] The cylindrical cam (33) includes a return spring (332) designed to maintain the cylindrical cam (33) in the first configuration or the raised configuration. In a preferred embodiment, the return spring (332) acts on a pin (331) that restrains the cylindrical cam (33) to an external lever (324B) of the mechanical transmission (324).

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the launch interference device (3) according to the present invention, the first lever (35) is an angle lever. Specifically, the angle lever (35) comprises three arms, wherein the first arm or horizontal arm (351) is suitably configured to be actuated by a cylindrical cam (33), the second arm or vertical arm (352) is suitably configured to be coupled with a safety element (22) (e.g., a safety rod), and the third arm or counterweight arm (353) is suitably configured to act as a counterweight for balance.

[0036] In the first configuration or rising configuration of the cylindrical cam, the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the angle lever (35) presses down on the holding lever (36).

[0037] Preferably, the third arm or counterweight arm (353) is configured to enable "ball release" approval. For example, such approval is provided by a proximity sensor (355). The proximity sensor (355) is configured to detect the position of the third arm or counterweight arm (353). When the third arm or counterweight arm (353) changes its position due to, for example, rotation of the angle lever (35) around the axis (350), the proximity sensor (355) detects the change in the position of the third arm or counterweight arm (353) and emits an electrical / electronic signal to enable "ball release" approval.

[0038] For the purposes of this specification, "ball release" indicates that the ball of the firearm (1), in particular the blowback mass (21), has been released to fire ammunition through the firearm (1).

[0039] More generally, the first lever or angle lever (35) is suitably configured to be constrained to the chamber ring (13) in a manner that allows it to rotate particularly around the axis (350). Preferably, the axis (350) on which the first lever (35) rotates is perpendicular to the axis (330) on which the cylindrical cam (33) rotates.

[0040] Preferably, the movable part (34) of the launch interference device (3), in particular the first lever (35), includes a return spring (354), the return spring induces the first lever or angle lever (35) to position itself in such a way that the second arm or vertical arm (352) can be coupled with the safety element (22) and the first arm or horizontal arm (351) can be coupled by the retaining lever (36). Preferably, the return spring (354) is configured to rotate the first lever (35) counterclockwise when clockwise rotation of the first lever (35) occurs.

[0041] In one possible embodiment, the retaining lever (36) is suitably configured to rotate about its axis (360). Preferably, the retaining lever (36) has a shape that allows it to move away from the cylindrical cam (33) by rotating about the axis (360) before the cylindrical cam (33) acts on the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever or angle lever (35) while the cylindrical cam (33) is transitioning from the first configuration or rising configuration to the second configuration or lowering configuration.

[0042] Preferably, the retaining lever (36) is configured to rotate about an axis (360), wherein the axis (360) is advantageously parallel to the axis (330) on which the cylindrical cam (33) rotates and perpendicular to the axis (350) on which the first lever (35) rotates. This perpendicular configuration of the two axes (350, 360) prevents external forces from acting on both the retaining lever (36) and the first lever (35), thereby improving the safety of the launch interference device (3), and thus effectively preventing the safety element (22) from being accidentally released.

[0043] Preferably, the retaining lever (36) includes a contact portion (363), and the cylindrical cam (33) acts on the contact portion (363) to release the retaining lever (36). Additionally, the retaining lever (36) is formed to prevent the first lever (35) from rotating around the axis (350) by holding the first arm or horizontal arm (351), thereby preventing clockwise or downward rotation of the first lever (35).

[0044] Preferably, the retaining lever (36) includes an adjacent portion (362), and the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35) is in contact with the adjacent portion (362) to prevent movement, particularly preventing rotation in a clockwise direction around the axis (350).

[0045] Preferably, the retaining lever (36) includes a return element (361) (e.g., a spring). The return element (361) is suitably configured to hold the retaining lever (36) in a position that locks the first lever (35), particularly the first arm or horizontal arm (351).

[0046] Preferably, the launch interference device (3) according to the present invention is designed such that, in an operating configuration where the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is in a standby, non-powered, or deactivated configuration, the cylindrical cam (33) is in the first configuration or the rising configuration. Specifically, in the first configuration or the rising configuration, the cylindrical cam (33) does not act on the retaining lever (36), and the retaining lever (36) maintains the first lever (35) in a configuration that locks the safety element (22).

[0047] Preferably, the launch interference device (3) according to the present invention is also designed such that, in an operating configuration where the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is operated, powered on, or activated, the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) retracts the rod (321B) of the movable part, particularly the hydraulic piston (321), which preferably switches the cylindrical cam (33) by operating the mechanical transmission (324). As a result, the cylindrical cam (33) switches from the first configuration or rising configuration to the second configuration or lowering configuration. Specifically, while the cylindrical cam (33) is switched, the cylindrical cam releases the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35) from the holding lever (36), and then lowers the first arm or horizontal arm (351) by particularly rotating the first lever or angle lever (35) around the axis (350). Specifically, this displacement of the cylindrical cam (33) causes the cylindrical cam (33) to act on the retaining lever (36), thereby causing the retaining lever to rotate around the axis (360) and move away. Additionally, this displacement of the cylindrical cam (33) results in the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35) moving downward as the first lever (35) rotates, for example, clockwise. The rotation of the first lever or angle lever (35) around the axis (350) results in the following: disengagement of the safety element (22); rapid movement of the safety element (22) (e.g., upward); rotation of the shaft (25) equipped with the external reload lever (23) and internal reload lever (24) of the firearm (1) and induction of their release; and release of the blowback mass (21).

[0048] The reload levers (23, 24) are mounted on the shaft (25) so as to be rotatable to arm or release the blowback mass (21). A safety element (22) acts on the shaft (25) to keep the blowback mass (21) in an armed state. Specifically, the safety element (22) is designed so that when the second arm or vertical arm (352) is engaged with the safety element (22), the safety element (22) prevents any rotation of the shaft (25), thereby allowing the internal reload lever (24) to act on the blowback mass (21) to lock it and prevent it from moving rapidly for ammunition firing. In a preferred embodiment, the internal reload lever (24) is an angle lever.

[0049] The internal reloading lever (24) is also actuated by a latch (26), which is configured to translate when the blowback mass (21) is released. For example, the latch (26) comprises a cylindrical rod with a recess formed therein, to which one end of the internal reloading lever (24) (particularly the end opposite to the end holding the blowback mass (21)) acts. A cam is formed in the head of the latch (26), which is coupled to a housing on the closer (2) to prevent the latch (26) from rotating and to translate the latch (26) to release the blowback mass (21) when it is in a position corresponding to the relief of the internal lever (not shown) for opening and closing the closer (2). The other end of the latch (26), that is, its tip, has a shape that can be operated by a lever for opening and closing the closing mechanism (2), and said lever holds the latch (26) in a position that maintains the internal reloading lever (24) until the closing mechanism (2) is closed. The reloading lever (23, 24), the shaft (25), and the latch (26) are themselves known in the art and are not the subject of the present invention, so they are not described in further detail in this specification.

[0050] Preferably, the firing interference device (3) according to the present invention is designed to allow repeated attempts to fire ammunition by reloading the firing pin, in particular the blowback mass (21), through the reloading lever (23, 24) without the need to move the cloaking device (2). This is important for safety in the event of a misfire (e.g., when the ammunition is struck but not activated and therefore does not explode).

[0051] In a preferred embodiment of the firing interference device (3) according to the present invention, which is merely exemplary and non-limiting, the firing interference device (3) is suitably configured to prevent any upward movement of the safety element (22), which is in the form of a safety rod of the cloaking device (2), thereby preventing the blowback mass (21) from moving rapidly when the firing button is not pressed or firing is prohibited (e.g., when the gun is in a forest area or is not aligned). The firing interference device (3) according to the present invention is hydraulically operated and electrically controlled by firing control logic (e.g., control unit (30)).

[0052] In a preferred but merely exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the firing interference device (3) is composed of two parts: a fixed part (31) mounted on the ceiling of the cradle (12) of the firearm (1) and a movable part (34) mounted on the chamber ring (13). The fixed part (31) is enclosed mainly within a sealed box (320) and includes an electro-hydraulic actuator (32) that acts on a cylindrical cam (33) via a mechanical transmission (324) through its movable part, particularly the rod (321B).

[0053] The electro-hydraulic actuator (32) includes a hydraulic piston (321) controlled by a solenoid valve (322), and the solenoid valve allows pressurized oil to flow into the chamber (321A) of the hydraulic piston (321) when power (specifically 28V DC voltage) is supplied from the control unit (30), thereby causing the rod (321B) to retract into the hydraulic piston (321).

[0054] The cylindrical cam (33), driven by an electro-hydraulic actuator (32) via a mechanical transmission (324), is coupled to the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of an angle lever (35) fixed to a chamber ring (13). Specifically, the mechanical transmission (324) consists of a fork-shaped lever (324A) and an external lever (324B).

[0055] The movable part (34) of the launch interference device (3) is mainly composed of the following: an angle lever (35) consisting of three arms, comprising a first arm or horizontal arm (351) suitablely configured to be actuated by a cylindrical cam (33); and a second arm or vertical arm (352) suitablely configured to be coupled with a safety element (22), particularly a safety rod. The angle lever (35) comprises a third arm or counterweight arm (353) suitablely configured to act as a counterweight for balance. The third arm or counterweight arm (353) is also suitablely configured to activate "ball release" approval.

[0056] The movable part (34) of the launch interference device (3) further includes a retaining lever (36) suitablely configured to lock the angle lever (35) while the retracting mass (14) returns, thereby allowing the angle lever (35) to release the safety element (22), particularly the safety rod, so that the safety element (22) can move rapidly, particularly upward, only when the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the angle lever (35) is engaged by the cylindrical cam (33) (particularly its second configuration or lowering configuration), particularly when the system is aligned and out of the forest zone and the launch button is pressed.

[0057] The retaining lever (36) is released from the cylindrical cam (33) before the cylindrical cam (33) strikes the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the angle lever (35) while the retracted mass (14) is returning.

[0058] In an embodiment of the launch interference device (3) according to the present invention, when power is not supplied to or the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is not activated, the cylindrical cam (33) is positioned in the first configuration or the rising configuration and does not act on either the retaining lever (36) or the angle lever (35). In the first configuration, the retaining lever (36) holds the angle lever (35) in a position that locks the safety element (22).

[0059] In an embodiment of the launch interference device (3) according to the present invention, when power is supplied to and activated the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) of the launch interference device (3), the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) retracts its movable part (321A). This acts the mechanical transmission (324) to switch the cylindrical cam (33) to a second configuration or a lowered configuration. While switching to the second configuration or a lowered configuration, the cylindrical cam (33) first displaces the retaining lever (36) to release the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the angle lever (35) from the action of the retaining lever (36), and only then acts on the first arm or horizontal arm (351) to lower it. Specifically, the angle lever (35) is rotated around the axis (350). When the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the angle lever (35) is lowered, the angle lever (35) rotates clockwise around the axis (350), which results in the following: upward movement of the safety element (22), rotation of the shaft (25) of the external reload lever (23), release of the internal reload lever (24), and release of the blowback mass (21).

[0060] Specifically, after activation of the electro-hydraulic actuator (32), the retaining lever (36) rotates around the axis (360) and switches from an interfering position, which prevents the angle lever (35) from rotating around the axis (350), to a clearing position, which allows the angle lever (35) to rotate around the axis (350).

[0061] Now, a possible embodiment of the firing interference device (3) according to the present invention will be described in more detail. FIG. 1 schematically shows a projected perspective view of a portion of a firearm (1) including the firing interference device (3) according to the present invention. FIG. 1 shows a cradle (12) of the firearm (1) that partially accommodates a chamber ring (13) and a recoil mass (14).

[0062] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a possible embodiment of a firing interference device (3) according to the present invention acting on a safety element (22) and a reload lever (23, 24) of a blowback mass (21). Specifically, FIG. 2 shows a fixed part (31) comprising an electro-hydraulic actuator (32) fixed to the cradle (12) of a firearm through a sealed box (320). FIG. 2 shows the end of a hydraulic circuit (19) connected to a solenoid valve (322) to drive a hydraulic piston (321). The hydraulic piston (321) is connected to a cylindrical cam (33) via a mechanical transmission (324). The cylindrical cam (33) acts on a movable part (34) comprising a first lever (35) in the form of an angle lever and a retaining lever (36). The angle lever (35) is connected to a return spring (354).

[0063] The angle lever (35) is configured to act on a safety element (22), the safety element acts on a shaft (25) to which an external reload lever (23) and an internal reload lever (24) are fixed, and the internal reload lever is configured to interact with a latch (26). The movable part (34) is fixed to the recoil mass (14) of the firearm.

[0064] FIG. 3a shows a partial cross-sectional side view of a possible embodiment of a launch interference device (3) according to the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 3a shows a fixed portion (31) of the launch interference device (3), and it can be seen that an electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is fixed to the cradle (12) of a firearm through a sealed box (320). Also, this drawing shows the end portion of a hydraulic circuit (19) that supplies oil to a hydraulic piston (321) enclosed within the sealed box (320). In FIG. 3a, the valve body of a solenoid valve (322) suitablely configured to drive the hydraulic piston (321) can be seen. The rod (321B) of the hydraulic piston (321) is connected to a mechanical transmission (324), specifically a fork-shaped lever (324A), and the fork-shaped lever is connected to a shaft on which a cylindrical cam (33) rotates. FIG. 3a shows the arrangement of the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) when powered on or activated, and the mechanical transmission (324) when the cylindrical cam (33) is in the second configuration or lower configuration. The dotted outlines show the position of the cylindrical cam (33) in the first configuration or rising configuration, and the position of the fork-shaped lever (324A) when the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is not powered on or activated. FIG. 3a also shows a return spring (332) connected to the cylindrical cam (33) to maintain the cylindrical cam (33) in the first configuration or rising configuration.

[0065] FIG. 3a also shows the position of a proximity sensor (355) configured to detect a change in the position of the third arm or counterweight arm of the angle lever and, accordingly, issue an electrical / electronic signal to activate a "ball release" approval.

[0066] FIG. 3b is a plan view showing details of a possible embodiment of a mechanical transmission (324) connected to an electro-hydraulic actuator (32). Specifically, FIG. 3b shows the end of a rod (321B) connected to a fork-shaped lever (324A), and the opposite end of the fork-shaped lever is hinged to an outer lever (324B) along an axis (330) on which a cylindrical cam (33) rotates. The cylindrical cam (33) is secured to the outer lever (324B) via a pin (331) on which a return spring (332) acts.

[0067] FIG. 4a shows a perspective view of a possible embodiment of an electro-hydraulic actuator (32) included in a launch interference device (3) according to the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 4a shows the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) included in a fixed part (31) of the launch interference device (3) according to the present invention. FIG. 4a shows a sealed box (320), from which connectors corresponding to the inlet (322A) and outlet (322B) of a solenoid valve (322) suitablely configured to drive a hydraulic piston (321) protrude.

[0068] FIG. 4b shows a possible embodiment of the electrical and hydraulic circuit diagram of an electro-hydraulic actuator (32). Specifically, FIG. 4b shows a control unit (30) electrically connected to the solenoid valve (322). The control unit (30) is suitably configured to control the solenoid valve (322) via a DC voltage signal transmitted to the solenoid valve (322), and the solenoid valve includes an inlet (322A) and an outlet (322B) suitably connected to the hydraulic circuit (19) of the firearm. The solenoid valve (322) includes a shut-off valve (3221) at the outlet (322B). The solenoid valve (322) allows pressurized oil to flow into the chamber (321A) of the hydraulic piston (321). The oil flowing into the chamber (321A) moves the rod (321B) in the direction indicated by the arrow, specifically contracting it.

[0069] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a possible embodiment of a launch interference device (3) according to the present invention acting on a safety element (22) in a first operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is turned off. Specifically, FIG. 5 shows a fixed portion (31) of the launch interference device (3) including an electro-hydraulic actuator (32) including a sealing box (320). FIG. 5 shows the end portion of a hydraulic circuit (19) connected to a solenoid valve (322) through an inlet (322A) and an outlet (322B). The solenoid valve (322) drives a hydraulic piston, and the corresponding rod (321B) can be identified in the drawing. The rod (321B) is connected to a cylindrical cam (33) through a mechanical transmission (324) including a fork-shaped lever (324A) and an external lever (324B). The cylindrical cam (33) is in a first configuration or a raised configuration, in which it does not act on a movable part (34) comprising a first lever (35) in the form of an angle lever suitable for rotating around an axis (350) and a holding lever (36) suitable for rotating around an axis (360). In this configuration, the angle lever (35) is coupled to the safety element (22) via a second arm or a vertical arm (352). In this configuration, the safety element (22) acts on a shaft (25) to which the external reload lever (23) and the internal reload lever (24) are fixed, and the internal reload lever is suitable for interacting with a latch (26). As previously mentioned, FIG. 5 shows an electro-hydraulic actuator (32) in a deactivated or non-powered state, i.e., a firing interference device (3) according to the present invention in a first operating configuration.

[0070] FIG. 6 shows a detailed side view of the launch interference device (3) of FIG. 5 in a first operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is deactivated or non-powered. Specifically, FIG. 6 shows a part of the fixed part (31), in particular the cylindrical cam (33), that is not acting on the retaining lever (36) of the movable part (34) of the launch interference device (3) fixed to the retractable mass (14). In fact, the cylindrical cam (33) is in the first configuration or the rising configuration and does not act on the contact part (363) of the retaining lever (36). In this configuration, the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35) acts on the contact part (363) of the retaining lever (36), so the adjacent part (362) of the retaining lever (36) prevents the first lever (35) from rotating. FIG. 6 shows a method in which the first lever (35) is maintained in this configuration by a return spring (354), so that the second arm or vertical arm (352) remains connected to the safety element (22).

[0071] In FIG. 6, the safety element (22) allows the internal reloading lever (24) to act on the blowback mass (21), thereby preventing the blowback mass from moving rapidly for ammunition firing when the cloaking mechanism (2) is closed and ensuring that it is locked.

[0072] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the launch interference device (3) of FIG. 5 in a second operating state in which the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is activated or powered on. Specifically, compared with FIG. 5, FIG. 7 shows that the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is actuated through the activation of the solenoid valve (322), and that the movable part in the form of a rod (321B) is retracted so that the mechanical transmission (324) switches the cylindrical cam (33) to a second configuration or a lowered configuration. In this configuration, the cylindrical cam (33) rotates around the axis (330) to displace the retaining lever (36) and rotates around the axis (360), thereby releasing the first arm or horizontal arm (351) and pushing it downward to rotate the first lever (35) around the axis (350). This movement of the first lever (35) allows the safety element (22) to move rapidly upward, thereby allowing the shaft (25) to rotate and unlock the reload lever (23, 24), thereby releasing the blowback mass and displacing the latch (26).

[0073] FIG. 8 shows a side view of the launch interference device (3) of FIG. 7 in a second operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is activated or powered on. Specifically, FIG. 8 shows the movement performed by various parts compared to FIG. 6. In particular, it can be seen that the cylindrical cam (33) is in the second configuration or lowering configuration, and by pushing the contact part (363) to remove the retaining lever (36), the adjacent part (362) releases the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the angle lever (35), and the cylindrical cam (33) pushes the first arm or horizontal arm (351) downward, overcoming the force of the return spring (354) and rotating the angle lever (35) clockwise.

[0074] Due to the movement of the angle lever (35), the second arm or vertical arm (352) no longer acts on the safety element (22), and accordingly, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 8, the safety element (22) moves rapidly upward to release the internal reload lever (24) and consequently release the blowback mass (21).

[0075] FIG. 9a shows an additional detailed side view of a launch interference device (3) illustrating the interaction between a fixed part (31) and a movable part (34) in a first operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is turned off. Specifically, FIG. 9a shows a state in which a cylindrical cam (33), configured to rotate about an axis (330), is in the first configuration or rising configuration and is not acting on the contact part (363) of the retaining lever (36). The same retaining lever (36) holds the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever through an adjacent part (362). In FIG. 9a, it can be seen that the retaining lever (36) is configured to rotate about an axis (360) and is held in the illustrated position by a return element (361) in the form of a coil spring.

[0076] FIG. 9b shows a detailed side view of the launch interference device (3) of FIG. 9a illustrating the interaction between the fixed part (31) and the movable part (34) in a second operating configuration in which the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is activated or powered. Specifically, FIG. 9b shows a cylindrical cam (33) in the second configuration or lowering configuration, which rotates and acts on the contact part (363) of the retaining lever (36) to displace the retaining lever (36) and release the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever from the adjacent part (362), thereby allowing the arm to lower, particularly through rotation. The cylindrical cam (33) acts on the retaining lever (36) and rotates the retaining lever (36) around the axis (360). As can be seen in FIG. 9b, the return element (361) is extended to accumulate energy to return the retaining lever (36) to the configuration shown in FIG. 9a. In FIG. 9b, arrows indicate the movements performed by each relevant part for better understanding.

[0077] The firing interference device (3) according to the present invention is particularly suitable for inclusion in one or more firearms (1), in particular mechanical percussion firearms. Preferably, each of the firearms (1) comprises a cradle (12), a chamber ring (13), a recoil mass (14), a hydraulic circuit (19), and a safety element (22) and a cloaking device (2).

[0078] The above firearm (1) further includes a blowback mass (21), an external reloading lever (23), and an internal reloading lever (24).

[0079] In one possible embodiment of the firearm (1) according to the present invention, the firearm is a naval gun.

[0080] For example, FIG. 1 shows a part of a firearm (1) according to the present invention.

[0081] The launch interference device (3) according to the present invention prevents the safety element (22) from moving when the launch button is not pressed or launch is deactivated and while the retracting mass (14) is retracting, while allowing the safety element (22) to be released quickly and reliably when the launch button is actually pressed.

[0082] The launch interference device (3) according to the present invention implements not only an actuator with excellent reliability and responsiveness, but also a reliable, responsive, simple-to-manufacture, and easy-to-maintain kinematic chain for transmitting motion from the actuator to the locking element of the safety element (22).

[0083] In addition, the firing interference device (3) according to the present invention provides a stable and reliable motion transmission chain, even though a part of the device is fixed to the cradle (12) and another part is mounted to the chamber ring (13).

[0084] The launch interference device (3) according to the present invention has been proven to have excellent reliability and safety.

[0085] Any embodiments of the launch interference device (3) that are not shown or described in this specification but can be easily inferred by a person skilled in the art in light of the contents of this patent application should be considered to be within the scope of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0086] Firearm 1 Cradle 12 Breech ring 13 Recoiling mass 14 Hydraulic circuit 19 Breechblock 2 Blowback mass 21 Safety element 22 External reloading lever 23 Internal reloading lever 24 Shaft 25 Latch 26 Control unit 30 Fixed portion 31 Electro-hydraulic actuator 32 Sealed box 320 Hydraulic piston 321 Chamber 321A Rod 321B Solenoid valve 322 Inlet 322A Outlet 322B Shut-off valve 3221 Mechanical transmission 324 Fork-shaped lever 324A External lever 324B Cylindrical cam 33 Axis 330 Pin 331 Return Spring 332 Movable portion 34 First lever 35 Axis 350 First arm 351 Second arm 352 Third arm 353 Return spring 354 Proximity sensor 355 Retaining lever 36 Axis 360 Return element 361 Abutment portion 362 Contact portion 363

Claims

Claim 1 In a firing interference device (3) for a firearm (1) that controls the release of a blowback mass (21) by preventing movement of a safety element (22) included in a cloak (2) of the firearm (1), the firing interference device comprises a fixed part (31) suitable for mounting on a cradle (12) of the firearm (1) and a movable part (34) suitable for mounting on a chamber ring (13) of the firearm (1), wherein the fixed part (31) comprises: - an electro-hydraulic actuator (32) suitable for connecting to a hydraulic circuit (19) included in the firearm (1); - a control unit (30) suitable for electrically controlling the electro-hydraulic actuator (32); - a cylindrical cam (33) suitable for being actuated by the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) to switch to a first configuration, an upward configuration, or a second configuration, a downward configuration, and the movable part (34) comprises: - the A first lever (35) comprising a first arm or horizontal arm (351) suitable for receiving action from a cylindrical cam (33) and a second arm or vertical arm (352) suitable for engaging with the safety element (22); - comprising a retaining lever (36) suitable for locking the first lever (35) while the retracted mass body (14) of the firearm (1) returns, wherein the retaining lever (36) is configured such that the first lever (35) releases the safety element (22) so that the safety element can perform a snap action only when the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35) is engaged by the cylindrical cam (33) in the second configuration or lowering configuration, and the cylindrical cam (33) acts on the retaining lever (36) to detach it from the first arm or horizontal arm (351) while transitioning from the first configuration or rising configuration to the second configuration or lowering configuration, and subsequently the same A firing interference device for a firearm, characterized in that a cylindrical cam (33) acts on the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35) to engage with it, and this process is performed while the retracted mass (14) returns. Claim 2 A firing interference device for a firearm according to claim 1, wherein the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is housed within a sealed box (320) and comprises a hydraulic piston (321) including a chamber (321A) and a rod (321B); and a solenoid valve (322) suitable for controlling the hydraulic piston (321) according to power supplied from the control unit (30) to the solenoid valve (322), wherein the solenoid valve (322) circulates under pressure within the hydraulic circuit (19) to control the flow of oil into the chamber (321A) of the hydraulic piston (321) to move the rod (321B) of the hydraulic piston (321). Claim 3 A firing interference device for a firearm, characterized in that, in claim 1 or 2, the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) acts on the cylindrical cam (33) through a mechanical transmission (324) including a fork-shaped lever (324A) and an external lever (324B) via its movable part. Claim 4 A firing interference device for a firearm according to claim 1, wherein the first lever (35) is an angle lever comprising three arms, - the first arm or horizontal arm is suitable for being actuated by the cylindrical cam (33); - the second arm or vertical arm (352) is suitable for being coupled with the safety element (22); and - the angle lever (35) comprises a third arm or counterweight arm (353) configured to act as a balance counterweight and to activate "ball release" approval. Claim 5 A firing interference device for a firearm, characterized in that, in claim 1 or 4, the first lever (35) is suitable for being constrained to the chamber ring (13) so as to be rotatable about the axis (350). Claim 6 A firing interference device for a firearm according to claim 1, wherein the holding lever (36) comprises: a contact portion (363) to which the cylindrical cam (33) contacts to disengage the holding lever (36); and an adjacent portion (362) to which the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35) contacts to restrict the movement of the first lever (35), and wherein the holding lever (36) is suitable for rotating around an axis (360). Claim 7 A firing interference device for a firearm according to claim 1, wherein the firing interference device (3) is configured such that the cylindrical cam (33) is positioned in the first configuration or the rising configuration in an operating configuration where the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is in a standby state, a non-powered state, or an inactive state, and in the first configuration or the rising configuration, the cylindrical cam (33) does not act on the holding lever (36), and the holding lever (36) holds the first lever (35) in a position that locks the safety element (22). Claim 8 In claim 1 or 7, the launch interference device (3) is configured such that, in an operating configuration where the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) is in an operating state, a power supply state, or an active state, the electro-hydraulic actuator (32) withdraws the movable part to switch the cylindrical cam (33), the switching of the cylindrical cam (33) allows switching from the first configuration or rising configuration to the second configuration or lowering configuration, and the cylindrical cam (33) lowers the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the first lever (35) after releasing it from the holding lever (36) during the switching process, and by the movement of the cylindrical cam (33): - the cylindrical cam (33) acts on the holding lever (36) to rotate the holding lever (36) around the axis (360) to disengage; - the first A firing interference device for a firearm, characterized in that the first arm or horizontal arm (351) of the lever (35) descends to rotate the first lever (35), thereby resulting in: - release of the safety element (22); - rotation of the shaft (25) equipped with the external reload lever (23) and internal reload lever (24) of the firearm (1) and release of the levers; and - release of the blowback mass (21). Claim 9 A firearm (1) comprising a cradle (12), a chamber ring (13), a recoil mass (14), a hydraulic circuit (19), and a safety element (22), wherein the firearm is characterized by including a firing interference device (3) according to claim 1. Claim 10 In paragraph 9, the above-mentioned weapon (1) is characterized as being a naval gun.

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