Archery Bow Limb System

Abstract

An improved archery bow limb system preferably includes a pair of primary limbs, a pair of secondary limbs, a pair of cams, a pair of front brackets and a pair of rear securement devices. A rear end of each secondary limb is retained relative to opposing ends of a riser. A rear end of the pair of primary limbs are retained on the pair of rear securement devices, which are attached to opposing ends of a riser. A second embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system would replace primary and second limbs with a single limb. The application also discloses other embodiments of the single limb design utilizing a cable.

Description

1. CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a non-provisional patent application, which takes priority from provisional patent application No. 63 / 840,758, filed on Jul. 9, 2025; provisional patent application No. 63 / 730,518, filed on Dec. 11, 2024; and provisional patent application No. 63 / 699,891, filed on Sep. 27, 2024, which are thereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.2. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to sporting goods, and more specifically to an improved archery bow limb system, which provides increased arrow speed. cl 3. DISCUSSION OF THE PRIOR ART

[0003] It appears that the prior art does not teach or suggest an archery bow with pivotally mounted limbs or dual sets of pivotally mounted limbs having distinctly different bending characteristics. The dual sets of limbs allow more energy to be stored than just a single set of limbs for increasing the speed of a released arrow. The archery field is always looking for inventions to improve arrow speed and provide a more linear release of an arrow.

[0004] The longevity of single limbs is increased, because stress is applied throughout a length of the limb instead of at a single fulcrum point.

[0005] Manufacturing cost of a single limb is lower, however the angular displacement of the belly cut, or compression side of the limb exposes cut fibers to a likelihood of breakage. Prior art limbs having a fulcrum point which does not bend at a constant rate upon their length, which also leads to premature failure; design and manufacturing restrictions; and greater inconsistencies. In addition, the flex rate varies upon the length of the limb and the location of the fulcrum point.

[0006] The fulcrum point on the limb is the greatest cause of limb failures. All the pressure applied to the limb tip is concentrated upon this one location creating a pinch point, which leads to most failures.

[0007] Bowtech introduced a single (split) limb design years ago that utilized limb rockers more or less at the center of the length of the limb in an effort to optimize limb performance. Though successful to a certain degree, this configuration created two fulcrum points, one fore and aft. However, the rocker edges, and fulcrum points continued to cause limb failures as with other bows.

[0008] By having no fulcrum point, the pressure applied at the limb tip is spread about the entire length of the limb creating no pinch point.

[0009] Projectile speed is increased, because more energy is stored throughout a length of the single limb instead of at a fulcrum point. Using a straight limb instead of a tapered limb increases the strength of a limb, because any resilient material such as fiberglass manufactured in a consistent uniform manner where strands are not cut will have greater longevity than when strands are cut.

[0010] Accordingly, there is clearly felt need in the art for an improved archery bow limb system, which provides increased arrow speed; provides a more linear release of the arrow; provides decreased variables such as a lack of cut fibers within the limb structure; provides an optional limb structure have a flat compression and tension side and consistent width and thickness throughout most, and preferably all of the working length of the limb.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention provides an improved archery bow limb system, which provides a more linear release of the arrow. The improved archery bow limb system preferably includes a pair of buckling primary limbs, a pair of secondary historical fulcrum bending, or buckling limbs, a pair of cams, a pair of front brackets and a pair of rear securement devices. The limbs may be split or single (with a fork end). A rear end of the pair of secondary limbs is retained on opposing ends of a riser of the archery bow.

[0012] For the disclosure, the term “riser” shall mean a structural element of the bow retaining the limb axles. The structural element may be coupled to the bow frame or operably integrated with the bow frame. With any reference to “limb(s)”, the term limb is an energy storing component known in the art such as solid limb or split limbs. The term “flex” is used to describe the unique way the limb transitions from brace condition to the drawn position of the bow assembly, thus the term “flex” in this disclosure is not limited to the conventional meaning. “Flex” may utilize characteristics of buckling, bending, arching, compressing, or any other engineering term describing the flexural movement of the limb. The pair of rear securement devices are retained on opposing ends of the riser of the archery bow. A rear end of the pair of primary limbs are retained on the pair of rear securement devices. Each rear securement device could be a bracket, a securement cable, or any other suitable device. A rear backet is attached to an end of the riser. The rear bracket includes a primary slot for slidably retaining a rear end of the primary limb for axially movement therein. One end of the securement cable is attached to one end of the riser and the opposing end is attached to the rear of the primary limb. Alternatively, the rear ends of the primary and second limbs may both be attached directly to the riser with fasteners or the like instead of using the rear securement devices. What is generally known and referred to as a “harness” or “(bow)string harness” are the combination of string(s) and or cable(s) coupled with string guides and provide for the operational bow assembly. Though some unique harnesses are disclosed herein, any harness known in the art that may prove to be operable may be utilized.

[0013] A second embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system would replace primary and second limbs with a single limb. Substantially, a mid-point of a length of the single limb would be attached to one end of the riser. One end of a single limb cable would be attached to the rear end of the single limb and an opposing end of the single limb cable would be attached to the cam. An axle of the cam is pivotally retained on a front end of the single limb.

[0014] A third embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system includes a single limb and a cable. One end of the single limb is pivotally engaged along a length of a riser and an opposing end of the single limb is pivotally engaged with one end of the cable. An opposing end of the cable is retained on an end of a riser. A cam or the like is pivotally retained at the junction of the cable and the single limb.

[0015] A fourth embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system includes a single limb and a cable. One end of the cable is retained on an end of a riser and the opposing end is pivotally retained on one end of the single limb. An opposing end of the single limb is pivotally retained adjacent the one end of the cable. A cam or the like is pivotally retained at the junction of the cable and the single limb.

[0016] A fifth embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system includes a single limb, a cable and a releasable tensioning device. One end of the cable and one end of the limb are pivotally engaged with each other. An opposing end of the cable is retained on a rounded edge end of a riser with the tensioning device. The releasable tensioning device is attached to a rear edge of the riser. The opposing end of the limb is pivotally engaged with substantially an end of the riser. A cam or the like is pivotally retained at the pivotal junction of the cable and single limb.

[0017] A sixth embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system includes a single limb and a cable. One end of the cable and one end of the limb are pivotally engaged with each other. An opposing end of the cable is retained on an end of riser. An opposing end of the single limb includes a radiused end. A radiused cavity is formed in a front edge of the riser. The radiused cavity is sized to receive the radiused end of the limb. The radiused cavity is located inward and adjacent to the opposing end of the cable. A cam or the like is pivotally retained at the pivotal junction of the cable and single limb.

[0018] An alternate preferred embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system includes a single set of limbs per side, a string guide and power cable per side, a bowstring, and may include at least one timing cable. A distinct advantage of this type of limb configuration is there are minimal compression forces transferred to the riser, allowing for a much lighter riser, reducing the overall weight of the bow. The much lighter riser is less expensive to manufacture and gives better balance to the finished product. A first proximal end of the first and second limbs are coupled with the riser or frame of the bow. A second distal end of the first and second limbs are operably coupled with the first and second string guides. The working area of the limb is preferably substantially flat, having no cut fibers, however the limb may be engineered having variable thickness cross sections or tapered. Preferably the limbs may be of glass fibers, carbon fibers, or the like in combination with a resin additive. However, the limbs may be made of any energy storage-type component as commonly known in industry. Support portions or structures are at both ends of the limbs to allow for the functional cooperation of the limbs with the axles, cables, string guides, bow string, and frame.

[0019] The distal end of the first and second limbs are operably and pivotally coupled with the first and second string guide, cables, and axles. The proximal end of the first and second limbs are operably and pivotally coupled with the frame, axles, and cables. The string guides may operably couple with the bowstring and power cable in any manner known in the industry.

[0020] When the bow is in the brace, or at-rest position, the limbs may be under zero load, or preferably a very low load. That is to say the tension side of the bow limbs are straight and flat or preferably having very little arc or pre-load. It is also preferred that there be no fulcrum point displaced between the distal and proximal ends of the bow limbs, however the invention will work similarly with a historical fulcrum point, or an adaptive dynamic fulcrum.

[0021] In one embodiment having timing cables, a biasing member may be operably coupled to the frame and the timing cables. Preferably, the biasing member provides for the placement of at least a portion of the timing cables to be outside the tension side, or outer surface of the bow limbs preventing unwanted uneven counter-rotation of the cams.

[0022] In another embodiment not having timing cables, a biasing member may be operably coupled to the frame and the power cables. The biasing member provides for angular displacement of the power cables, that is to say “bent” along its length from the string guide to its'anchor instead of straight, preventing unwanted uneven counter-rotation of the cams.

[0023] The axles may be journalled through the limbs or may be supported on the inner or outer surfaces of the limbs as commonly known in the industry such as pillow blocks and the like.

[0024] The current invention may utilize fixed axle cams, or preferably dynamically axled cams, but in all instances the proximally axled limb axle is fixed.

[0025] In all cases, a limb that flexes along its entire length may have less mass than a tapered limb design utilizing an historical fulcrum point, and less moving mass during the discharge of the bow results in greater speed with the same stored energy.

[0026] In most cases, the limbs flex along their length in a relatively constant curvature. As the bowstring is drawn and unwound from the cam, the cam axle is drawn rearwards and inwards during the draw cycle. The combination of a near constant curvature of the limb and no fulcrum point limb configuration bow is unique, and generally opposite all known current art.

[0027] The front end of the secondary limb is also pivotally connected to the axle of the cam and offset from the front end of the primary limb with the front bracket. The cam preferably includes a bow string track extension. The bow string track extension extends inward from an outer perimeter of the cam. The pair of bow string track extension decrease a length of an unsupported bow string. Thus, when an arrow is fired, the vibration of the bow string is greatly reduced. A bow string track extends around a portion of an outer perimeter of the cam. Opposing ends of the bow string are preferably secured to the pair of cams with a pair of string anchors.

[0028] A single cable may be used for left and right limbs, or a single left cable may be used for left limbs and a single right cable used for the right limbs. A first end of a cable is attached to a first cam. A first cable pulley is pivotally retained on a rear end of each primary limb. A length of the cable wraps around the first cable pulley on the left primary limb and returns back to the left cam and a second end of the cable is attached to a second cable pulley. A second cable is preferably retained on the right cam and the right primary limb.

[0029] An opening is formed through a thickness of the cam for insertion of a loop formed on the second end of the cable. Anchoring the second end of the cable to the cam is preferably accomplished with a cable pin. The cable is retained against a side of the cam. The cable pin may have any suitable thickness. The greater the thickness, the greater the tension on the cable. A bushing attached to the cam makes contact with the cable to change a location of a force line relative to the cam axle. The force line may go through a center of the cam axle to produce the greatest arrow speed; to an inside of a center of the cam axle for saving stress on the bow string; or to an outside of a center of the cam axle to make it easiest to change the cable. A cable brake may be attached or formed on the cam. An end of the cable brake would contact a cable during recoil of the archery bow to prevent the bow string from being over stressed. Alternatively, a cable may be replaced with a semi-circular plate and a rod. One end of the rod is anchored to a riser with an extension spring. An opposing end of the rod is pivotally retained on one end of the semi-circular plate. An opposing end of the semi-circular plate is pivotally retained on a cam.

[0030] Accordingly, there is clearly felt need in the art for an improved archery bow limb system, which provides increased arrow speed; provides a more linear release of the arrow; provides decreased cut fibers within the limb structure; preferably provides a limb structure have a flat compression and tension side throughout most, and preferably all of the working length of the limb.

[0031] These and additional objects, advantages, features and benefits of the present invention will become apparent from the following specification.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] FIG. 1 is a top view of an improved archery bow limb system installed on a crossbow with the crossbow being in an un-cocked orientation in accordance with the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 2 is a top view of an improved archery bow limb system installed on a crossbow with the crossbow being in a partially cocked orientation in accordance with the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 3 is a top view of an improved archery bow limb system installed on a crossbow with the crossbow being in a fully cocked orientation in accordance with the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 4 is a side view of an improved archery bow limb system installed on a crossbow in accordance with the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 5 is a top view of a right limb of an improved archery bow limb system installed on a crossbow in accordance with the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 6 is a top view of rear ends of right primary and second limbs of an improved archery bow limb system installed on a crossbow with a cable replacing a rear bracket in accordance with the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a front bracket of a left limb of an improved archery bow limb system installed on a crossbow in accordance with the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 8 is a top view of rear ends of primary and second limbs having differing bend rates, attached directly to one end of a riser with fasteners of an improved archery bow limb system installed on a crossbow in accordance with the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 9 is a top view of a second embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system, which replaces primary and second limbs with a single limb in accordance with the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 9a is a top view of a third embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system in an undrawn orientation in accordance with the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 9b is a top view of a third embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system in an undrawn orientation in accordance with the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 9c is a top view of a third embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 9d is a top view of a fourth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 9e is a side view of a releasable tensioning device of a fourth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 9f is a top view of a fifth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 10 is an end view of three different thickness cable pins for retaining a cable against a cam of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view of cam with a cable retained against an outer surface of the cam with a cable pin of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 12 is a top view of a cam with a cable retained against an outer surface of the cam with a cable pin of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 13 is a top view of a cam with a force line of a cable going through a center of a cam axle with a round insert contacting a cable to produce the greatest arrow speed of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 14 is a top view of a cam with a force line of a cable going inside an outer perimeter of a cam axle with an oblong insert contacting a cable for saving stress on the bow string during release of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 15 is a top view of a cam with a force line of a cable going outside an outer perimeter of a cam axle with no insert for saving stress on the bow string of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 16 is a top view of a cam with a cable brake attached or formed on the cam of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 17 is a top view of a cocked cam with a semi-circular plate and a rod replacing a cable of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 18 is a top view of an un-cocked cam with a semi-circular plate and a rod replacing a cable of an improved archery bow limb system in accordance with the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated without a crossbow frame in the at-rest position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable per side in accordance with the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated without a crossbow frame in the drawn position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable per side in accordance with the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 21 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a sixth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated without a crossbow frame in the at-rest position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable per side in accordance with the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 22 is a top transparent view of a sixth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated without a crossbow frame in the at-rest position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable per side in accordance with the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 23 is a top transparent view of a sixth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated without a crossbow frame in the drawn position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable per side in accordance with the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 23A is a top view of a sixth embodiment of an improved archery having an inward flexing bow limb system illustrated without a crossbow frame in the drawn position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable per side in accordance with the present invention.

[0062] FIG. 24 is a top view of a sixth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated without a crossbow frame in the drawn position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable per side with illustrating the limbs from the at-rest position superimposed over the limbs in the drawn position wherein the axle to axle and limb mid-point distances are less in the at-rest position than in the cocked position in accordance with the present invention.

[0063] FIG. 24A is a top view of an alternate limb type assembly having a continuously tapered compression surface, a pillow block to support the axle and cam, and a limb pocket retaining the limbs while being coupled to the riser in accordance with the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 24B is a top view of an alternate limb type assembly having a traditional partially tapered compression surface, a hole through the distal limb tip to support the axle and cam, and a limb pocket retaining the limbs while being coupled to the riser in accordance with the present invention.

[0065] FIG. 25 is a side view of an seventh embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated in the at-rest position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable and one timing cable per side, cable tensioner and quick-release cable anchor in accordance with the present invention.

[0066] FIG. 26 is a side view of an eighth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated in the drawn position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable and one timing cable per side, cable tensioner and quick-release cable anchor in accordance with the present invention.

[0067] FIG. 26A is a side view of an eight embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated in the at-rest position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable and one timing cable per side, cable tensioner and quick-release cable anchor in accordance with the present invention.

[0068] FIG. 27 is a side view of a ninth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated in the at-rest position, having a single split limb design utilizing one power cable and one timing cable per side, cable tensioner and quick-release cable anchor wherein the cam is axially fixed in accordance with the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 28 is a top view of a tenth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system illustrated in a drawn position, having a split cable, one split cable per side and dual limbs having no fulcrum point in accordance with the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0070] With reference now to the drawings, and particularly to FIGS. 1-5 and 7, there is shown an improved archery bow limb system 1 preferably includes a pair of primary limbs 10, a pair of secondary limbs 12, a pair of cams 14, a pair of front brackets 16 and a pair of rear securement devices. The limbs 10, 12 may be split or single. A rear end of each secondary limb 12 is retained on opposing ends of a riser 102 of an archery bow 100. The pair of rear securement devices are retained on opposing ends of the riser 102. With reference to FIG. 6, a rear end of the pair of primary limbs 10 are retained on the pair of rear securement devices. Each rear securement device could be a rear bracket 18, a securement cable 20, or any other suitable device. The rear backet 18 is attached to an end of the riser 102. The rear bracket 18 includes a primary slot 20 for a rear end of the primary limb 10 to have axially movement therein. The rear bracket 18 may be attached to the riser 102 with a pair of fasteners 22. One end of the securement cable 20 is attached to the riser 102 and the opposing end is attached to the rear of the primary limb 10. With reference to FIG. 8, the rear ends of the primary limbs 10 and the second limbs 12 are both attached directly to the riser 102 with fasteners 24 or the like instead of using the rear securement devices. A front end of the second limb 12 is attached to the cam 14 with a front cable 26. One end of the front cable 26 is secured to the front end of the second limb 12 and the opposing end is attached to the cam 14.

[0071] With reference to FIG. 9, a second embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system 2 would replace primary and second limbs 10, 12 with a single limb 28. Substantially, a mid-point of the single limb 28 would be attached to the riser 102 with fasteners 30 or the like. One end of a single limb cable 32 is attached to a rear end of the single limb 28 and an opposing end of the single limb cable 32 is attached to the cam 14. Alternatively, the cable 32 may be looped around a pulley mounted to the rear end of the single limb 28 and an opposing end of the cable 32 may be mounted to another anchor point. An axle 34 of the cam 14 is pivotally retained on a front end of the primary limb 28. A rear end of the single limb 28 extends beyond the riser 102 to provide storage of additional energy when archery bow 100 is drawn.

[0072] With reference to FIGS. 9a-9b, a third embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system 3 preferably includes a single limb 110 and a cable 112. One end of the single limb 110 is pivotally engaged along a length of a riser 114 and an opposing end of the single limb 110 is pivotally engaged with one end of the cable 112. An opposing end of the cable 112 is retained on an end of a riser 114. A cam or a bow string retention device 116 is pivotally retained at the junction of the cable 112 and the single limb 110.

[0073] With reference to FIG. 9c, a fourth embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system 4 preferably includes a single limb 118 and a cable 120. One end of the cable 120 is retained on an end of a riser 122 and the opposing end is pivotally retained on one end of the single limb 118. An opposing end of the single limb 118 is pivotally retained on the riser 122, adjacent the one end of the cable 120. A cam 124 is pivotally retained at the pivotal junction of the cable 120 and the single limb 118.

[0074] With reference to FIGS. 9d-9e, a fifth embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system 5 includes a single limb 126, a cable 128 and a releasable tensioning device 130. One end of the cable 128 and one end of the single limb 126 are pivotally engaged with each other. An opposing end of the cable 128 is retained on a rounded edge end 134 of a riser 132 with a hook arm 136 of a tensioning device 130. The tensioning device 130 includes the hook arm 136, a base 138 and a tensioning handle 140. Tensioning device 130 is preferably a commonly manufactured toggle clamp. However, other types of tensioning devices may also be used. An end of the hook arm 136 is inserted into a slot in an end of the cable 128. The releasable tensioning device 130 is attached to a rear edge of the riser 132. The opposing end of the single limb 126 is pivotally engaged with substantially an end of the riser 132. A cam or the like 142 is pivotally retained at the pivotal junction of the cable 128 and single limb 126.

[0075] With reference to FIG. 9f, a sixth embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system 6 preferably includes a single limb 144 and a cable 146. One end of the cable 146 and one end of the single limb 144 are pivotally engaged with each other. An opposing end of the cable 146 is retained on an end of a riser 148. An opposing end of the single limb 144 includes a radiused end 150. A radiused cavity 152 is formed in a front edge of the riser 148. The radiused cavity 152 is sized to pivotally receive the radiused end 150 of the single limb 144. The radiused cavity 152 is located inward from and adjacent to the opposing end of the cable 146. A cam or the like 154 is pivotally retained at the pivotal junction of the cable 146 and the single limb 148. FIGS. 9-9d and 9f show only one end of an archery bow.

[0076] With reference to FIG. 7, the front end of the secondary limb 12 is also pivotally coupled through the front bracket 16 to the axle 34 of the cam 14 and offset from the front end of the primary limb 10 with the front bracket 16. The front bracket 16 preferably includes a base 36 and two axle upright members 38 extending upward from opposing ends of the base 36. The base 36 is attached to the front end of the secondary limb 12 with fasteners (not shown) or the like. The axle 34 of the cam 14 is retained in the front end of the primary limb 10 and the two axle upright members 38. The cam 14 preferably includes a bow string track extension 40. The bow string track extension 40 extends inward toward a barrel 104 of the archery bow 100 from an outer perimeter of the cam 14. The pair of bow string track extensions 40 decrease a length of an unsupported bow string 106. Thus, when an arrow is fired, the vibration of the bow string 106 is greatly reduced. A bow string track 42 extends around a portion of an outer perimeter of the cam 14. With reference to FIG. 3, opposing ends of the bow string 106 are secured to the pair of cams 14 with a pair of string anchors 44.

[0077] A single cable may be used for left and right limbs, or a single left cable may be used for left limbs and a single right cable used for the right limbs. With reference to FIG. 3, a first end of a cable 46 is attached to a first cam 14. A first cable pulley 48 is pivotally retained on a rear end of each primary limb 10. A length of the cable 46 wraps around the first cable pulley 48 on the left primary limb 10 and returns back to the left cam 14 and a second end of the cable 46 is attached to an anchor point, or to the cam 14. A second cable 52 is preferably retained on the right cam 14 and the right primary limb 10. Alternatively, an end of the cable 46 may be attached directly to the rear end of the left primary limb 10 and the second cable 52 attached to directly to the rear end of the right primary limb 10.

[0078] With reference to FIGS. 10-12, the one end of the cable 46 is attached to the cam 14 by forming an opening 54 through a thickness of the cam 14 for insertion of a loop 56 formed on the second end of the cable 46. Anchoring the second end of the cable 46 to the cam 14 is preferably accomplished with a cable pin 58, 60, 62. The cable 46 is retained against a side surface of the cam 14. The greater the thickness of the cable pin 58, 60, 62, the greater the tension on the cable 46. With reference to FIGS. 13-15, a bushing attached to the cam 14 may be used against the cable 46 to change a location of a force line 64 relative to the cam axle 34. The force line 64 may go through a center of the cam axle 34 to produce the greatest arrow speed with a bushing 66 contacting the cable 46; to an inside center of the cam axle 34 with a bushing 68 contacting the cable 46 for saving stress on the bow string 106; or to an outside of the cam axle 34 without a bushing to make it easiest to change the cable 46. The bushing 66 preferably has a round shape, but other suitable shapes could also be used. The bushing 68 preferably has an oblong shape, but other suitable shapes could also be used.

[0079] With reference to FIG. 16, a cable brake 72 may be attached or formed on a cam 70. An end of the cable brake 72 will contact the cable 74 during recoil of the archery bow 100 to prevent the bow string 106 from being over stressed. With reference to FIGS. 17-18, a cable may be replaced with a semi-circular plate 76 and a rod 78. One end of the rod 78 is anchored to a limb, opposing limb end, opposing cable harness or to a riser, and optionally with an extension spring (not shown). An opposing end of the rod 78 is pivotally retained on one end of the semi-circular plate 76. An opposing end of the semi-circular plate 76 is pivotally retained on a cam 80.

[0080] With reference to FIGS. 19-22, a sixth embodiment of an improved archery bow limb system (bow limb system) 200 preferably includes a riser 202, a pair of split bow limbs 210 and a single power cable 212 for each split bow limbs 210. The proximal ends of the split bow limbs 210 are axially retained in the riser 202 by axles 238, allowing for the split bow limbs 210 to pivot during operation. Cable ends 240 of the cable 212 are retained by axles 238, a mid-segment of the cable 212 passes through the string guide 214 and adjacent cable segments engage cable tracks on the string guide 214. The string guides 214 are pivotally retained on axles 234 inserted through a distal end of the split bow limbs 210. Though not illustrated, there are many methods known in the art for functionally coupling cables with cams and limbs, and the invention is not limited by the chosen illustration and may utilize any method known in the art. Further, the power cable ends 240 are illustrated as anchored to axles 238, however they may be coupled anywhere on the frame or riser 202 to achieve the desired intent of the invention.

[0081] Limb buffers 236 extending from the riser 202 prevent overtravel of the limbs 210. As a bowstring 220 is drawn and unwound from the string guide 214, the cables 212 wrap in the cable tracks of the string guides 214 causing the limbs 210 to flex in an arch, bringing the string guide axle 234 closer to the axles 238. FIG. 23 illustrates outward flexing split bow limbs 210, when the split bow limbs 210 are placed outside the pair of limb buffers 236. FIG. 23A illustrates inward flexing split bow limbs 210 due to rotating the split bow limbs 210, 180 degrees relative to a lengthwise axis of the split bow limbs 210. The pair of split bow limbs 210 are placed inside the pair of limb buffers 236.

[0082] With reference to FIG. 24, the bow limb system 200 is shown in a drawn position with the split bow limbs 210 from the at-rest position superimposed to illustrate the flex or bow of the limbs 210 and how the string guide axle 234 is dynamic and moves with the distal ends of the limbs 210, axle 238 is fixed with the riser 202 causing the proximal ends of limbs 210 to pivot. The axle-to-axle distance in the at-rest position A-1 is less than the axle-to-axle distance in the cocked position A-2. The distance between the longitudinal mid-point of the first and second limbs L-1 is less in the at-rest position than when in the cocked position L-2.

[0083] With reference to FIGS. 24A and 24B, alternate embodiments of split bow limbs 210′ and 210′ are shown. FIG. 24A shows the split bow limb 210′ includes a straight tapered compression side 210A, a pillow block 244, an axle 234 and proximal ends of the split bow limb 210′ are retained in a limb pocket 242. The limb pocket 242 is pivotally coupled to the riser 202 (not shown) with an axle 238. FIG. 24B shows the split bow limb 210′ including a traditional tapered compression side 210B, a hole through the distal limb tip for retaining the axle 234 and the proximal ends of the split bow limbs 210′ are retained in the limb pocket 242. The limb pocket 242 is pivotally coupled to the riser 202 (not shown) with an axle 238.

[0084] With reference to FIG. 25, a seventh embodiment of the bow limb system 300 is shown. Though not to limit the numerous variations outlined herein, changing the location and interaction of components does not limit the scope of the invention. The bow limb system 300 preferably includes a riser 302, a pair of split bow limbs 312 and a single power cable 316. The proximal ends of the split bow limbs 312 are axially retained in the riser 302 by axle 338, allowing for the split bow limbs 312 to pivot during operation. A cable anchor 362 in the form of a quick release clamp retains one end of a cable end 360 of the power cable 316. An opposing end of the power cable 316 is preferably retained on the string guide 314. The string guide 314 is pivotally retained on a distal end of the split bow 312 with an axle 334 and retains a bow string 320. The cable tensioner 336 may be coupled with the riser 302, or integrated with it.

[0085] With reference to FIG. 26, an eighth embodiment of the bow limb system 400 is shown. The bow limb system 400 preferably includes a riser 402, a pair of split bow limbs 410, a bow string 420 (with an opposing end 420), an idler wheel 414, a power cable 416 and a bridge cable 460. The proximal ends of the split bow limbs 410 are axially retained in the riser 402 by axle 438, allowing for the split bow limbs 410 to pivot during operation. A cable anchor 462 in the form of a quick release clamp retains one end of the bridge cable end 460. The idler wheel 414 is retained on a distal end of the split bow limbs 410 with an axle 434. The bow string 420 is retained in a track of the idler wheel 414. One end of the power cable 416 is retained on the riser 402 and an opposing end is retained on the axle 434. A cable tensioner 464 makes contact with the bridge cable 460. FIG. 26a shows FIG. 26 in at rest position.

[0086] With reference to FIG. 27, a ninth embodiment of bow limb system 500 is shown. The bow limb system 500 preferably includes a pair of split bow limbs 510, a cable 512, a cam 514, a cable 516 and a bow string 520. The cam 514 is mounted independently on the bow (not shown). When the cam 514 is rotated, it will take-up cable 512, which pulls limb end 538 towards an anchored limb end. The cable 516 will hold the limb 510 from swiveling on a limb anchor pin, which causes the split bow limbs 510 to buckle or bow. A post 540 making contact with the cable 516 could be used as an anchor for the end of cable 516. However, a clamping device 562 may be used to adjust tension on the bow limb system 500. The clamping device 562 is able to release the tension for quick easy assembly or disassembly. The clamping device 562 preferably has a threaded adjustable length for adjusting the tension on the bow limb system 500.

[0087] With reference to FIG. 28, a tenth embodiment of bow limb system 600 is shown. The bow limb system 600 preferably includes a pair of primary limbs 610, a pair of secondary limbs 612, a pair of rear backets 618, a pair of rear split cable anchors 621, a pair middle split cable anchors 623 and a pair of cams 640. The primary and second limbs 610, 612 do not have fulcrum points. Cables are not shown for the pair of primary split limbs 610. The bow limb system 600 is similar to first embodiment of the improved archery bow limb system shown in FIGS. 1-6.

[0088] While particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects, and therefore, the aim in the appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. Such changes may include but are not limited to reversing the primary and secondary limb configuration, types of cam configurations, string and cable alterations, forward or reverse limb, and forward or reverse cams.

Claims

1. An improved archery bow limb system, comprising:a riser having left side and a right side;left and right limb assemblies include limbs, string guides, cables and a bowstring;the limbs having a proximal and distal end, the proximal end pivotally coupled with the riser sides, the distal ends pivotally coupled and axially dynamic with strings guides; andthe cables operably coupled with the string guides and the pivotally coupling component fixed at the riser, and the bowstring operably coupled with the string guides.

2. An improved archery bow limb system, comprising:a riser having left side, a middle, and a right side;left and right limb assemblies include limbs, string guides, and a bowstring harness;the limbs having a proximal and distal end, a tension side and a compression side, a working length and an overall length, a thickness and a width;the working length thickness being uniform, the proximal and distal end thickness greater than the working length thickness;the proximal ends pivotally coupled with the riser wherein the pivot axis are a fixed distance from each other; andthe distal ends pivotally coupled and axially dynamic with strings guides; the cables operably coupled with the string guides and coupled with the riser, and the bowstring operably coupled with the string guides.

3. An improved archery bow limb system, comprising:a riser having left side, a middle, and a right side;left and right limb assemblies include limbs, string guides, and a bowstring harness;the limbs having a proximal and distal end, a tension side and a compression side, a working length and an overall length, a thickness and a width;the working length thickness being non-uniform, the proximal and distal end thickness greater than the working length thickness;the proximal ends pivotally coupled with the riser wherein the pivot axis are a fixed distance from each other; andthe distal ends pivotally coupled and axially dynamic with strings guides; the cables operably coupled with the string guides and coupled with the riser, and the bowstring operably coupled with the string guides.

4. An improved archery bow limb system, comprising:a riser having left side, a middle, and a right side;left and right limb assemblies include limbs, string guides, and a bowstring harness;the limbs having a proximal and distal end, a tension side and a compression side, a working length and an overall length, a thickness and a width;the overall length thickness being uniform;the proximal ends pivotally coupled with the riser wherein the pivot axis are a fixed distance from each other;the distal ends pivotally coupled and axially dynamic with strings guides; andthe cables operably coupled with the string guides and coupled with the riser, and the bowstring operably coupled with the string guides.

5. An improved archery bow limb system, comprising:a riser having left side, a middle, and a right side;left and right limb assemblies include limbs, string guides, and a bowstring harness;the limbs having a proximal and distal end, a tension side and a compression side, a working length and an overall length, a thickness and a width;the overall length thickness being tapered;the proximal ends pivotally coupled with the riser wherein the pivot axis are a fixed distance from each other;the distal ends pivotally coupled and axially dynamic with strings guides; andthe cables operably coupled with the string guides and coupled with the riser, and the bowstring operably coupled with the string guides.

6. An improved archery bow limb system, comprising:a riser having left side, a middle, and a right side;left and right limb assemblies include limbs, string guides, and a bowstring harness;the limbs having a proximal and distal end, a tension side and a compression side, a working length and an overall length;the proximal ends pivotally coupled with the riser wherein the pivot axis is a fixed distance from each other;the distal ends pivotally coupled and axially dynamic with strings guides;cables operably coupled with the string guides and coupled with the riser, the bowstring operably coupled with the string guides, and;wherein the axle-to-axle distance in the at-rest position is less than the axle-to-axle distance in the cocked position, and the distance between the longitudinal mid-point of the first and second limbs is less in the at-rest position than when in the cocked position.

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