Integrally framed out-the-front knife

Abstract

An out-the-front knife assembly includes a bladed element having a front lock surface and a rear lock surface; a spring assembly; a track frame having a locking tab biased toward the bladed element; a switchplate, and a switch that moves the switchplate. The locking tab engages the rear lock surface when the bladed element is in the forward blade position, wherein the locking tab engages the front lock surface when the bladed element is in the rearward blade position, and a length of the locking tab includes an inclined structure having an apex. The switchplate has a lock interface structure configured to abut against the inclined structure of the locking tab such that the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is at the apex of the inclined structure.

Description

INTEGRALLY FRAMED OUT-THE-FRONT KNIFECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 562,677 filed on March 7, 2024, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety, as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] This disclosure relates generally to the field of mechanical knives, and more specifically to out-the-front deployed mechanical knives. Described herein are devices and methods for out-the-front deployed knives.BACKGROUND

[0004] Retractable blade knives with assisted opening mechanisms are sometimes called "switchblades" or "out-the-front (OTF) knives". OTF knives offer automatic opening with the press of a button or the actuation of a switch due to an internal spring mechanism. They are popular for their convenience and quick deployment, making them a favored tool for everyday carry (EDC) and in tactical and emergency situations.SUMMARY

[0005] There is a need for new and useful system for out-the-front knives. In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an out-the-front knife assembly including: a bladed element having a front lock surface, a rear lock surface, a front spring surface, and a rearspring surface; a spring assembly having a front spring tab and a rear spring tab coupled by at least one spring, wherein the front spring tab engages the front spring surface when the bladed element is in a forward blade position, and wherein the rear spring tab engages the rear spring surface when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position; a track frame having a first front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a first rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a locking tab biased toward the bladed element; wherein the locking tab engages the rear lock surface when the bladed element is in the forward blade position, wherein the locking tab engages the front lock surface when the bladed element is in the rearward blade position, and wherein a length of the locking tab includes an inclined structure having a length and an apex; a switchplate having a second front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a second rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a lock interface structure configured to abut against the inclined structure of the locking tab such that the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is within 15% of the length of the inclined structure to the apex; a switch coupled to the switchplate, wherein the switch is configured to move the switchplate between a forward switch position and a rearward switch position, wherein an opening motion from the rearward switch position to the forward switch position and a closing motion from the forward switch position to the rearward switch the position causes the lock interface structure to pass the apex of the inclined structure.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, further including a housing that covers the bladed element when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position, at least a portion of the spring assembly, at least a portion of the track frame, and at least a portion of the switchplate.

[0007] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein during an opening motion, the switchplate moves the front spring tab towards a forward end, and wherein during a closing motion, the switchplate moves the rear spring tab towards a rear end.

[0008] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, further including a safety.

[0009] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the safety prevents the opening motion by blocking the switchplate.

[0010] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the rear lock surface and the rear spring surface are equivalent and form a rear engagement surface.

[0011] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the front lock surface and the front spring surface are equivalent and form a front engagement surface.

[0012] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the first front track, the second front track, the first rear track, and the second rear track are each linear and arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bladed element.

[0013] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the bladed element further includes a blade edge.

[0014] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is within 8% of the length of the inclined structure to the apex.

[0015] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is within 5% of the length of the inclined structure to the apex.

[0016] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is approximately at the apex of the inclined structure.

[0017] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an out-the-front knife assembly including: a bladed element having a front lock surface, a rear lock surface, a front spring surface, and a rear spring surface; a spring assembly having a front spring tab and a rear spring tab coupled by at least one spring, wherein the front spring tab engages the front spring surface when the bladed element is in a forward blade position, and wherein the rear spring tab engages the rear spring surface when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position; a track frame having a first front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a first rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, a forward locking tab biased toward the bladed element, and a rearward locking tab biased toward the bladed element; wherein the forward locking tab engages the rear lock surface when the bladed element is in the forward blade position, wherein the rearward locking tab engages the front lock surface when the bladed element is in the rearward blade position, wherein a first length of forward the locking tab includes a first inclined structure, and wherein a second length of the rearward locking tabincludes a second inclined structure; a switchplate having a second front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a second rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, a forward lock interface structure configured to abut against the first inclined structure of the forward locking tab such that the forward locking tab disengages from the rear lock surface when the forward lock interface structure reaches a first predefined point of the first inclined structure, and a rearward lock interface structure configured to abut against the second inclined structure of the rearward locking tab such that the rearward locking tab disengages from the front lock surface when the rearward lock interface structure reaches a second predefined point of the second inclined structure; a switch coupled to the switchplate, wherein the switch is configured to move the switchplate between a forward switch position and a rearward switch position, wherein an opening motion from the rearward switch position to the forward switch position causes the rearward lock interface structure to reach the second predefined point of the second inclined structures, and wherein and a closing motion from the forward switch position to the rearward switch the position causes the forward lock interface structure to reach the first predefined point of the first inclined structure.

[0018] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, further including a housing that covers the bladed element when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position, at least a portion of the spring assembly, at least a portion of the track frame, and at least a portion of the switchplate.

[0019] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein during an opening motion, the switchplate moves the front spring tab towards a forward end, and wherein during a closing motion, the switchplate moves the rear spring tab towards a rear end.

[0020] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, further including a safety.

[0021] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the safety prevents the opening motion by blocking the switchplate.

[0022] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the rear lock surface and the rear spring surface are equivalent and form a rear engagement surface.

[0023] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the front lock surface and the front spring surface are equivalent and form a front engagement surface.

[0024] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the first front track, the second front track, the first rear track, and the second rear track are each linear and arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bladed element.

[0025] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an out-the-front knife assembly including: a bladed element having a front lock surface, a rear lock surface, a front spring surface, and a rear spring surface; a spring assembly having a front spring tab and a rear spring tab coupled by at least one spring, wherein the front spring tab engages the front spring surface when the bladed element is in a forward blade position, and wherein the rear spring tab engages the rear spring surface when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position; a track frame having a first front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a first rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a locking tab biased toward the bladed element; wherein the locking tab engages the rear lock surface when the bladed element is in the forward blade position, wherein the locking tab engages the front lock surface when the bladed element is in the rearward blade position; a switchplate having a second front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a second rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a lock interface structure; a switch coupled to the switchplate, wherein the switch is configured to move the switchplate between a forward switch position and a rearward switch position; a directional lock toggle positioned on the locking tab and operatively coupled to the switchplate such that an opening motion from the rearward switch position to the forward switch position and a closing motion from the forward switch position to the rearward switch the position drives a rotation of the directional lock toggle such that a tip of the directional lock toggle opposite a pivot of the directional lock toggle along a longest dimension of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 20 degrees of perpendicular to a path of motion of the lock interface structure, and wherein an engagement of the tip of the directional lock toggle with the lock interface structure causes the locking tab to disengage from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface.

[0026] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the tip of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 12 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion of the lock interface structure.

[0027] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the tip of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longestdimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 8 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion of the lock interface structure.

[0028] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the tip of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 4 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion of the lock interface structure.

[0029] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, further including a housing that covers the bladed element when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position, at least a portion of the spring assembly, at least a portion of the track frame, and at least a portion of the switchplate.

[0030] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein during an opening motion, the switchplate moves the front spring tab towards a forward end, and wherein during a closing motion, the switchplate moves the rear spring tab towards a rear end.

[0031] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, further including a safety.

[0032] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the safety prevents the opening motion by blocking the switchplate.

[0033] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the rear lock surface and the rear spring surface are equivalent and form a rear engagement surface.

[0034] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the front lock surface and the front spring surface are equivalent and form a front engagement surface.

[0035] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a knife assembly, wherein the first front track, the second front track, the first rear track, and the second rear track are each linear and arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bladed element.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The foregoing is a summary, and thus, necessarily limited in detail. The above- mentioned aspects, as well as other aspects, features, and advantages of the presenttechnology are described below in connection with various embodiments, with reference made to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of an OTF knife assembly in with partial transparency.

[0038] FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of a bladed element.

[0039] FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a bladed element.

[0040] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a spring assembly.

[0041] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of an integral frame.

[0042] FIGs. 5A-5C illustrate different views of a locking tab of an embodiment of an integral frame.

[0043] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a switchplate.

[0044] FIG. 7A-7C illustrate schematics depicting an embodiment of a lock interface structure interacting with a locking tab.

[0045] FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a safety mechanism with partial transparency.

[0046] FIG. 9A illustrates an embodiment of an OTF knife assembly having a forward locking tab and a rearward locking tab with a bladed element in a rearward blade position.

[0047] FIG. 9B illustrates an embodiment of an OTF knife assembly having a forward locking tab and a rearward locking tab with a bladed element in a forward blade position.

[0048] FIGs. 10A-10C illustrate schematics depicting a first embodiment of a directional lock toggle engaging a lock interface structure.

[0049] The illustrated embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the disclosure. The schematics are drawn to illustrate features and concepts and are not necessarily drawn to scale.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] The foregoing is a summary, and thus, necessarily limited in detail. The above- mentioned aspects, as well as other aspects, features, and advantages of the present technology will now be described in connection with various embodiments. The inclusion of the following embodiments is not intended to limit the disclosure to these embodiments, but rather to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the claimed subject matter.Other embodiments may be utilized, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. Aspects of the disclosure, asdescribed and illustrated herein, can be arranged, combined, modified, and designed in a variety of different formulations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and form part of this disclosure.

[0051] Previous technologies and devices in the OTF knife market have faced several common complaints. These limitations have hindered the performance, safety, and user satisfaction associated with these tools.

[0052] One of the primary issues with OTF knives is their lack of durability and longevity. Many models on the market suffer from wear and corrosion, leading to a shorter usable life and the need for frequent replacements. This problem is exacerbated by their construction, which typically involves relatively small and slight designs that inherently limit durability. Users have expressed dissatisfaction with knives that fail to maintain their integrity over time, especially under rigorous use.

[0053] Ergonomics and user comfort have also been areas of concern. Previous designs often failed to provide a comfortable grip, optimal weight distribution, and blade geometry that would allow for efficient and fatigue-free use. The lack of removable and reversible knife clips further limited the versatility and personalization of the knives.

[0054] Customization options were limited in previous OTF knives, which did not adequately reflect the individuality and preferences of users. The absence of choices in blade materials, handle materials, and unique designs, including engravings and different sizes, restricted users from tailoring their knives to their specific needs and tastes.

[0055] Safety has been a significant issue with earlier OTF knife designs. Instances of accidental firing, difficulty in handling the knife without touching the blade, and inadequate physical safeties have posed risks to users. The presence of blade wobble, which affects the knife's precision and stability, has also been a common complaint. Furthermore, the smoothness of deployment and tight lockups were often inconsistent, with some knives exhibiting gritty switches and unreliable locking mechanisms. This inconsistency could compromise the knife's performance and the user's safety.

[0056] Aesthetics and additional functionalities are often overlooked in previous designs. Users looking for a knife that could serve multiple purposes, including self-defense, utility, and as a status symbol, found the market offerings lacking. Lastly there is the matter of cost. Traditional OTF knives require extremely precise tolerances during manufacturing and assembly. Additionally, due to regulation it is difficult to distribute OTF knives across statelines. The former of these factors increases manufacturing cost and the latter imposes barriers to sales.

[0057] In summary, prior OTF switchblade knives have been plagued by issues related to durability, ergonomics, customization, safety, deployment smoothness, and additional functionalities.

[0058] These shortcomings have created a demand for a revolutionary new OTF knife that addresses these problems, providing a superior tool that meets the diverse needs and preferences of users. Accordingly, there exists a need to develop new devices and methods that address these long-known issues.

[0059] Disclosed herein are new systems and mechanisms for an OTF knife that provides technical solutions to many of the limitations described above. The technology herein incorporates several innovative features that enhance durability, ergonomics, customization, safety, and functionality over existing technologies. Improvements include, but are not limited to, improved working stability due to a dimensional fit of a blade tang and a track frame, and a more reliable safety mechanism preventing accidental openings of the blade.

[0060] The knife assembly described herein functions as an out-the-front knife assembly. In some embodiments, the knife assembly functions to quickly and safely open or deploy a knife blade with improvements in durability, ergonomics, customization, safety, and functionality as described herein over existing OTF knives. The knife assembly is used for everyday use but can additionally or alternatively be used for any suitable applications, including tactical, emergency, and medical applications. The knife assembly can be configured and / or adapted to function for any suitable cutting need.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 1 in partial transparency, an embodiment of the knife assembly 100 may include a bladed element 102, a spring assembly 104, a track frame 106, a switchplate 108, a switch 110, and a housing 112. In some embodiments, the bladed element 102 and the track frame 106 may be considered together as a “blade assembly.” In some embodiments, the knife assembly 100 may additionally include a safety 114. As shown in FIG. 1, the bladed element 102 is depicted in a forward blade position (e.g., extended outside the housing 112). When the bladed element 102 is in a rearward blade position, the bladed element 102 is retracted within the track frame 106 and housing 112.

[0062] As described herein, a user may operate the switch 110 to change knife assembly 100 from a forward switch position to a rearward switch position and vice versa. The motion of the switch 110 moves (e.g., slides) the switchplate 108 that rides on the integral frame 106within the housing 112. Motion or sliding of the switchplate 108 builds tension on the spring assembly 104 which engages the bladed element 102. After tension has been built, further motion of the switchplate 108 releases the locking tab (e.g., locking tab 440 of FIG. 4) of the integral frame 106 to permit the motion of the bladed element 102. Freed from the locking tab (e.g., locking tab 440 of FIG. 4), the bladed element 102 may then snap forward (e.g., to a forward blade position) or rearward (e.g., to a rearward blade position) accordingly to release the tension of the spring assembly 104.

[0063] As shown in embodiment of FIG. 1, the track frame 106 may be positioned inside the housing 112 with the switchplate 108 and spring assembly 104 located between the track frame 106 and the housing 112. In some embodiments, the features of the track frame 106 as described herein may be integrated directly into the housing 112, and the switchplate 108 and spring assembly 104 may be located between the bladed element 102 and the housing 112.

[0064] FIG. 2A shows a schematic of one embodiment of a bladed element 202 having a length LI that defines a longitudinal axis. The bladed element 202 may include a blade body 220 and a blade tang 222. The blade body 220 may have a cutting edge 221 along at least a portion of the perimeter of the blade body 220. In some embodiments, the blade tang 222 has a tang height Hl and tang width W1 shaped to fit snugly within a cavity (e.g., cavity 436 of FIG. 4) of the track frame 106.

[0065] For interacting with other components of the knife assembly 200 as described herein, the bladed element 202 may additionally feature, in some embodiments, a front lock surface 224a, a rear lock surface 224b, a front spring surface 226a, and a rear spring surface 226b. In some embodiments, the front lock surface 224a may be the same surface as the front spring surface 226a and therefore may be considered as equivalent and as forming together a front engagement surface. In some embodiments, the rear lock surface 224b may be the same surface as the rear spring surface 226b and therefore may be considered as equivalent and forming together a rear engagement surface.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 2A, the front lock surface 224a may be positioned on a lock nub 228 positioned on the blade body 220, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the rear lock surface 224b, the front spring surface 226a, and the rear spring surface 226b may be located on the blade tang 222. As shown in the perspective view of FIG. 2B, the blade tang 222 may have, in some embodiments, a groove or edge 229 that separates the blade tang 222 from the blade body 220, which may serve as a one or both of a front lock surface 224a or a front spring surface 226a. In some embodiments, any of the front lock surface 224a, the rearlock surface 224b, the front spring surface 226a, and / or the rear spring surface 226b may be a groove (e.g., groove or edge 229), indent, or protrusion in or on the blade body 220 or blade tang 222.

[0067] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment for a spring assembly 304. In some embodiments, the spring assembly 304 includes a front spring tab 332a and a rear spring tab 332b connected by at least one spring 330. The spring 330 may be circular, elliptical, or having any other shape in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the spring 330 may be made of a corrosion resistant material. In some embodiments, the spring 330 meets the U.S. military specification MS24568. The front spring tab 332a may with the front spring surface 226a of the bladed element 202 of FIG. 2 A, in some embodiments, and the rear spring tab 332b may engage with the rear spring surface 226b of the bladed element 202 of FIG. 2A. At least one of the front spring tab 332a and rear spring tab 332b may further include one or more track riders 334, in some embodiments. The one or more track riders 334 are structural components that slidably fit within one or more tracks of the track frame 106 (e.g., a first front track 438a and a first rear track 438b of FIG. 4) and / or the switchplate 108 (e.g., a second front track 652a and a second rear track 652b of FIG. 6).

[0068] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment for a track frame 406. Due to the central position of the track frame 406 within the knife assembly 100 the track frame 406 may be considered an “integral frame” in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the track frame 406 defines a cavity 436 for receiving a bladed element (e.g., bladed element 102 of FIG. 1, bladed element 202 of FIG. 2 A, etc.) In some embodiments, a height H2 and width W2 of the cavity 436 substantially match that of a height Hl and width W1 of a blade tang 222 to provide for a snug fit between the blade tang 222. In some embodiments, the track frame 406 and the bladed element (e.g., bladed element 102 of FIG. 1, bladed element 202 of FIG. 2A, etc.) may be cut from the same piece of material during a manufacturing process to permit the dimensional fit. This dimensional fit of the blade tang 222 within the track frame 406 provides a technical solution to achieve greater stability of the bladed element (e.g., bladed element 102 of FIG. 1, bladed element 202 of FIG. 2 A, etc.) during use compared to existing technologies.

[0069] In some embodiments, the track frame 406 further defines at least one track (e.g., a first front track 438a or a first rear track 438b) to receive at least one of the front spring tab 332a or the rear spring tab 332b of FIG. 3. In some embodiments, at least one track receives one or more track riders 334 of the front spring tab 332a or the rear spring tab 332b of FIG. 3.As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4, the track frame 406 defines a first front track 438a and a first rear track 438b. The first front track 438a may receive the track riders 334 of the front spring tab 332a and the first rear track 438b may receive the track riders 334 of the rear spring tab 332b, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the first front track 438a and the first rear track 438b are linear. In some embodiments, the first front track 438a and the first rear track 438b are arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bladed element 202 (e.g., as defined by length I ).

[0070] In some embodiments, the track frame 406 further defines a locking tab 440 that is biased towards the cavity 436 (e.g., towards the bladed element 102 of FIG. 1 or bladed element 202 of FIG. 2A when in a rearward bladed position). In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the first front track 438a at least partially defines the locking tab 440. The locking tab 440, in some embodiments, may engage the front lock surface 224a when the bladed element 102 is in a rearward blade position, and the locking tab 440 may engage the rear lock surface 224b when the bladed element 102 is in a forward blade position. In some embodiments, the track frame 406 further defines at least one stability groove 442 to receive a switch edge plane (e.g., switch edge plane 648 of FIG. 6) of a switchplate 108.

[0071] FIG. 5 A shows a cross-section schematic of an embodiment of a locking tab 540 taken along plane A of FIG. 4. FIG. 5B shows a front view of an embodiment of a locking tab 540 seen in the direction of arrow B of FIG. 5 A. FIG. 5C shows a back view of an embodiment of a locking tab 540 seen in the direction of arrow B of FIG. 5 A. The locking tab 540, in some embodiments, includes a locking flange 542. In some embodiments, the locking flange 542 may have a wider section 542a and a narrower section 542b. For example, the narrower section 542b may engage a rear lock surface 224b, and the wider section 542a may reach farther along the width W1 of the bladed element 202 of FIG. 2A to engage a front lock surface 224a on a lock nub 228. Along a length L2 of the locking tab 540, the locking tab 540 may include an inclined structure 544 having an apex 546. In some embodiments, the locking tab 540 is made of a flexible material such that the locking tab 540 may bend outwards away from the cavity 436 of the track frame 406 when a force (e.g., a motion of a lock interface structure 650 of FIG. 6) operates on the inclined structure 544.

[0072] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a switchplate 608 having a lock interface structure 650 and a switch 610 coupled to a switch edge plate 648. In some embodiments, the switchplate 608 includes a second front track 652a and a second rear track 652b which may receive the track riders 334 of the front spring tab 332a of FIG. 3 and thesecond rear track 652b may receive the track riders 334 of the rear spring tab 332b of FIG. 3, in some embodiments. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 6, the second front track 652a may feature two separate channels or grooves, while the second rear track 652b may be a singular slot or pocket. In some embodiments, the second front track 652a and the second rear track 652b are linear. In some embodiments, the second front track 652a and the second rear track 652b are arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bladed element 202 (e.g., as defined by length LI). In some embodiments, the switchplate 608 may further include a spring channel 654 to permit a motion of the spring 330 of FIG. 3 unobstructed. In some embodiments, the switchplate 608 may further include a safety mechanism groove 656.

[0073] As described herein, a user may move the switch 610 from a forward switch position to a rearward switch position and vice versa. The motion of the switch 610 moves the switchplate 108 that rides on the integral frame 106 within the housing 112. For example, a motion from a rearward switch position to a forward switch position moves the switchplate 608 forwards such that the second front track 652a engages the front spring tab 332a. Because the rear spring tab 332b is stuck behind rear spring surface 226b of the bladed element 202 and the bladed element 202 is locked in place by the locking tab 440, the spring 330 extends, building tension. The motion from a rearward switch position to a forward switch position also moves the lock interface structure 650 along the locking tab 440. As described below in FIGs. 7A-7B, the motion of the lock interface structure 650 eventually disengages the locking tab 440 from the front lock surface 224a. The spring 330 may then release the tension by pulling the rear spring tab 332b forwards which propels the bladed element 202 from a rearward blade position to a forward blade position (e.g., extends the bladed element 202 from the track frame 406 and / or housing 112). A limiting structure (not shown) such as a flange or lip of the track frame 406 and / or housing 112 may prevent the bladed element 202, including the blade tang 222, from completely decoupling from the track frame 406 and / or housing 112. The motion from a rearward switch position to a forward switch position may be considered an opening motion, in some embodiments, because extends the bladed element 202. In some embodiments, any motion of the switch 610 or switchplate 608 that causes an extension of the bladed element 202 may be considered an opening motion.

[0074] As another example, a motion from a forward switch position to a rearward switch position moves the switchplate 608 rearward such that the second rear track 652b engages the rear spring tab 332b. Because the front spring tab 332a is stuck behind front spring surface226a of the bladed element 202 and the bladed element 202 is locked in place by the locking tab 440, the spring 330 extends, building tension. The motion from a forward switch position to a rearward switch position also moves the lock interface structure 650 along the locking tab 440. As described below in FIG. 7C, the motion of the lock interface structure 650 eventually disengages the locking tab 440 from the rear lock surface 224b. The spring 330 may then release the tension by pulling the front spring tab 332a rearwards which propels the bladed element 202 from a forward blade position to a rearward blade position (e.g., retracts the bladed element 202 into the track frame 406 and / or housing 112). The motion from a forward switch position to a rearward switch position may be considered a closing motion, in some embodiments, because it retracts the bladed element 202. In some embodiments, any motion of the switch 610 or switchplate 608 that causes a retraction of the bladed element 202 may be considered a closing motion.

[0075] FIG. 7A illustrates a cross-sectional schematic of the interaction between a bladed element 702, a locking tab 740, and a lock interface structure 750, in some embodiments, when the knife assembly 100 is in a rearward blade position during a motion from a rearward switch position to a forward switch position. The locking flange 742 of the locking tab 740 engages the front lock surface 724a of the bladed element 702 while a motion on a switchplate (not shown) drives the lock interface structure 750 forward. The lock interface structure 750 collides against the inclined structure 744 of the locking tab 740. Due to the flexibility of the locking tab 740, the forwards motion of the lock interface structure 744 lifts the locking tab 740 and its locking flange 742 away from the front lock surface 724a; however, the locking flange 742 cannot disengage the front lock surface 724a until the lock interface structure 750 reaches or nears the apex 746 of the inclined structure 744, as shown in the cross-sectional schematic of FIG. 7B. In some embodiments, the locking flange 742 disengages the front lock surface 724a when the lock interface structure is within 15% or less, 10% or less, 8% or less, 5% or less, or 1% or less of the length L2 to the apex 746. Once the locking flange 742 disengages the front lock surface 724a, the bladed element 702 may move forward into a forward blade position due to the tension on the rear spring tab 332b as described herein. Having reached the apex 746, the lock interface structure 750 may continue in the same direction along the inclined structure 744 of the locking tab 740, allowing the locking flange 742 to engage the rear lock surface 742b (e.g., see FIG. 7C), in some embodiments. In some embodiments, because this motion of the lock interface structure750 over the apex 746, the lock interface structure 750 may be said to pass or traverse the apex 746 of the inclined structure 744.

[0076] FIG. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional schematic of the interaction between a bladed element 702, a locking tab 740, a lock interface structure 750, front spring tab 732a, and spring 730, in some embodiments, when the knife assembly 100 is in a forward blade position during a motion from a forward switch position to a rearward switch position. The locking flange 742 of the locking tab 740 engages with the rear lock surface 724b (e.g., on a blade tang 722) holding the bladed element 702 and front spring tab 732a in place while a motion on a switchplate (not shown) drives the lock interface structure 750 rearward. The lock interface structure 750 collides against the inclined structure 744 of the locking tab 740. Due to the flexibility of the locking tab 740, the rearwards motion of the lock interface structure 750 lifts the locking tab 740 and its locking flange 742 away from the rear lock surface 724b; however, the locking flange 742 cannot disengage the rear lock surface 724b until the lock interface structure 750 reaches or nears the apex 746 of the inclined structure 744. In some embodiments, the locking flange 742 disengages the rear lock surface 724b when the lock interface structure is within 15% or less, 10% or less, 8% or less, 5% or less, or 1% or less of the length L2 to the apex 746. Once the locking flange 742 disengages the rear lock surface 724b, the bladed element 702 may move rearward into a rearward blade position due to the tension on the front spring tab 732a as described herein. FIGs. 7A-7C are not to scale, and the geometries of the various components are such that the locking tab 740 does not collide with the spring 730 or front spring tab 732a during an operation of the knife assembly 100, in some embodiments.

[0077] FIG. 8 shows one embodiment of a safety 814 for a knife assembly 800 in partial transparency. In some embodiments, the safety 814 includes a safety actuator 860 that may be moved between a safety closed position and a safety open position (also called a safety release position). When the safety actuator 860 is in a safety closed position, the safety actuator 860 blocks a motion of the switchplate 808, in some embodiments. For example, the safety actuator 860, when in a safety closed position, may prevent one or both of an opening motion or a closing motion of the switchplate 808. In some embodiments, the safety actuator 860 may block a motion of the switchplate 808 by slotting into a safety mechanism groove 856 (e.g., when the bladed element 802 is in a forward blade position) or by abutting against a front end 862 of the switchplate 808 or another structure of the switchplate 808 (e.g., when the bladed element 802 is in a rearward blade position).

[0078] In some embodiments, a safety spring 864 coupled to the safety actuator 860 biases the safety actuator 860 into the safety closed position. Therefore, in some embodiments, a resting state of the knife assembly 800 blocks a motion of the switchplate 808. In order to move the switch 610 and / or switchplate 808, a user must first change move the safety actuator 860 from the safety closed position to a safety open position, in some embodiments, such as by pushing on or activating a safety trigger 866. Activating the safety trigger 866 moves the safety actuator into a safety open position for as long as the safety trigger 866 is activating (e.g., a button or slider is held in a trigger open position), in some embodiments. In this manner, a user must both activate the safety trigger 866 and operate a switch 610, in some embodiments, to perform an opening and / or closing motion of the knife assembly 800. When a user stops activating the safety trigger 866, the safety spring 864 may automatically reset the safety actuator 860 to the safety closed position, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the safety spring 864 may be coupled to the housing 812 of the knife assembly 800. In some embodiments, one or both of the safety actuator 860 and safety trigger 866 are accessible to a user on an exterior surface of the housing 812. The safety 816 as described herein provides technical solution of a more reliable safety system (e.g., preventing more accidental opening motions) compared to existing technologies.

[0079] FIGs. 9A and 9B shows a schematic of an embodiment of a knife assembly 900 with partial transparency having a track frame 906 with a forward locking tab 940a and rearward locking tab 940b that interact with a forward lock interface structure 950a and rearward lock interface structure 950b, respectively, of a swtichplate (not shown, e.g., switchplate 608 of FIG. 6). In some embodiments, the forward lock interface structure 950a and the rearward lock interface structure 950b are coupled to the same switchplate 608 such that a motion of the switch (not shown, e.g., switch 610 of FIG. 6) that moves the switchplate 608 moves both the forward lock interface structure 950a and the rearward lock interface structure 950b in unison. In some embodiments, a motion of a switch 610 that moves the switchplate 608 may move both the forward lock interface structure 950a and the rearward lock interface structure 950b simultaneously but in different directions and / or at different speeds.

[0080] In the embodiment of FIG. 9A, a bladed element 902 is a rearward blade position, and the rearward locking tab 940b engages the front lock surface 924a (e.g., on a blade tang 922) of the bladed element 902. In the embodiment of FIG. 9B, the bladed element 902 is in a forward blade position, and the forward locking tab 940a engages the rear lock surface 924b(e.g., on a blade tang 922). Similar to the embodiments of FIGs. 5A-5C, the forward locking tab 940a has a first locking flange 942a and a first inclined structure 944a and having a first apex 946a, and the rearward locking tab 940b has a second locking flange 942b and a second inclined structure 944b having a second apex 946b. As described herein, a motion of the forward lock interface structure 950a and the rearward lock interface structure 950b may flex the forward locking tab 940a and the rearward locking tab 940b, respectively, to disengage from the corresponding rear lock surface 924b or front lock surface 924a. In the embodiment of FIGs. 9A-9B, the forward lock interface structure 950a and the rearward lock interface structure 950b reach or near but do not traverse the first apex 946a and the second apex 946b, respectively. In some embodiments, the forward lock interface structure 950a and the rearward lock interface structure 950b may traverse the first apex 946a and the second apex 946b, respectively. In some embodiments, the forward locking tab 940a does not have a first apex 946a, and the rearward locking tab 940b does not have a second apex 946b. In these embodiments, the forward locking tab 940a and the rearward locking tab 940b disengage the rear lock surface 924b and the front lock surface 924a, respectively, when the forward lock interface structure 950a and the rearward lock interface structure 950b reach a first and second predefined point along the first inclined structure 944a and the second inclined structure 944b, respectively.

[0081] In some embodiments, when the forward locking tab 940a disengages the rear lock surface 924b, the second locking flange 942b of the rearward locking tab 940b may in a path of motion for the bladed element 902 and may collide with the rear locking surface 924b. Similarly, in some embodiments, when the rearward locking tab 940b disengages the front lock surface 924a, the first locking flange 942a may be in a path of motion for the bladed element 902 and may collide with the front locking surface 924a. In these embodiments spring assembly (not shown) conveys force on the bladed element 902 sufficient to push the bladed element 902 through to the rearward blade position and forward blade position as shown in FIGs. 9A and 9B respectively.

[0082] FIGs. 10A-10C illustrate schematics of an embodiment for a knife assembly 1000 having a directional lock toggle 1070. In the embodiment of FIGs. 10A-10C, the directional lock toggle 1070 is rotatably coupled to a locking tab 1040 by a pivot 1070a. Opposite the pivot 1070a along a longest dimension L3 (e.g., a length in one dimension) of the directional lock toggle 1070 is a tip 1070b of the directional lock toggle 1070. The directional lock toggle 1070 is operatively connected to the switchplate (not shown, e.g., switchplate 108 ofFIG. 1), in some embodiments, such that an opening motion and a closing motion of the switch (not shown, e.g., switch 110 of FIG. 1) or switchplate 108 drives a rotation of the directional lock toggle 1070 about the pivot 1070a in addition to moving a lock interface structure 1050 along a path of motion 1051 as shown in FIG. 10C. For example, one or more gears, toothed structures, drift shafts or other mechanisms may operatively couple the directional lock toggle 1070 to the switchplate 108 such that directional lock toggle performs the described motion. In some embodiments, the tip 1070b of the directional lock toggle 1070 engages or collides with the lock interface structure 1050 when the longest dimension L3 of the directional lock toggle 1070 is within about 20 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion 1051 of the lock interface structure 1050. The engagement or collision of the tip 1070b of the directional lock toggle 1070 flexes the locking tab 1040 sufficiently to disengage the locking flange 1042 from the front lock surface 1024a and the rear lock surface 1024b of the bladed element 1002.

[0083] In some embodiments, the tip 1070b of the directional lock toggle 1070 engages the lock interface structure 1050 when the longest dimension L3 of the directional lock toggle 1070 is within at least 12 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion 1051 of the lock interface structure 1050. In some embodiments, the tip 1070b of the directional lock toggle 1070 engages the lock interface structure 1050 when the longest dimension L3 of the directional lock toggle 1070 is within at least 8 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion 1051 of the lock interface structure 1050. In some embodiments, the tip 1070b of the directional lock toggle 1070 engages the lock interface structure 1050 when the longest dimension L3 of the directional lock toggle 1070 is within at least 4 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion 1051 of the lock interface structure 1050. In some embodiments, the tip 1070b of the directional lock toggle 1070 engages the lock interface structure 1050 when the longest dimension L3 of the directional lock toggle 1070 is about perpendicular to the path of motion 1051 of the lock interface structure 1050. In some embodiments, the tip 1070b of the directional lock toggle 1070 engages the lock interface structure 1050 when the longest dimension L3 of the directional lock toggle 1070 is perpendicular to the path of motion 1051 of the lock interface structure 1050.

[0084] Returning to FIG. 1, the housing 112 of the knife assembly 100 may have an ergonomic shape and may be made of materials with a high coefficient of friction to facilitate a user’s grip. In some embodiments, the housing may be made of a material including, but not limited to, G10, Micarta, ultem, or another polymer. In some embodiments, the housing112 features at least a removable section into which a desired image may be cut. For example, the desired image may include, but is not limited to, a logo, an emblem, or text such as a set of initials. In some embodiments, the removable section covers a pocket into which a light source may be installed such that, when the removable section is secured to the housing, the desired image glows. In some embodiments, the light source includes, but is not limited to, tritium, an LED, or a glow-in-the-dark material. The inclusion of the removable section and pocket of some embodiments provides a technical solution of greater customizability and personalization of the knife assembly 100 as compared to existing technologies.

[0085] Examples

[0086] Example 1. An out-the-front knife assembly comprising: a bladed element having a front lock surface, a rear lock surface, a front spring surface, and a rear spring surface; a spring assembly having a front spring tab and a rear spring tab coupled by at least one spring, wherein the front spring tab engages the front spring surface when the bladed element is in a forward blade position, and wherein the rear spring tab engages the rear spring surface when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position; a track frame having a first front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a first rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a locking tab biased toward the bladed element; wherein the locking tab engages the rear lock surface when the bladed element is in the forward blade position, wherein the locking tab engages the front lock surface when the bladed element is in the rearward blade position, and wherein a length of the locking tab includes an inclined structure having a length and an apex; a switchplate having a second front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a second rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a lock interface structure configured to abut against the inclined structure of the locking tab such that the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is within 15% of the length of the inclined structure to the apex; a switch coupled to the switchplate, wherein the switch is configured to move the switchplate between a forward switch position and a rearward switch position, wherein an opening motion from the rearward switch position to the forward switch position and a closing motion from the forward switch position to the rearward switch the position causes the lock interface structure to pass the apex of the inclined structure.

[0087] Example 2. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 1, further comprising a housing that covers the bladed element when the bladedelement is in a rearward blade position, at least a portion of the spring assembly, at least a portion of the track frame, and at least a portion of the switchplate.

[0088] Example 3. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 1, wherein during an opening motion, the switchplate moves the front spring tab towards a forward end, and wherein during a closing motion, the switchplate moves the rear spring tab towards a rear end.

[0089] Example 4. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 1, further comprising a safety.

[0090] Example 5. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 4, wherein the safety prevents the opening motion by blocking the switchplate.

[0091] Example 6. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 1, wherein the rear lock surface and the rear spring surface are equivalent and form a rear engagement surface.

[0092] Example 7. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 1, wherein the front lock surface and the front spring surface are equivalent and form a front engagement surface.

[0093] Example 8. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 1, wherein the first front track, the second front track, the first rear track, and the second rear track are each linear and arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bladed element.

[0094] Example 9. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 1, wherein the bladed element further comprises a blade edge.

[0095] Example 10. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 1, wherein the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is within 8% of the length of the inclined structure to the apex.

[0096] Example 11. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 10, wherein the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is within 5% of the length of the inclined structure to the apex.

[0097] Example 12. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 11, wherein the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rearlock surface when the lock interface structure is approximately at the apex of the inclined structure.

[0098] Example 13. An out-the-front knife assembly comprising: a bladed element having a front lock surface, a rear lock surface, a front spring surface, and a rear spring surface; a spring assembly having a front spring tab and a rear spring tab coupled by at least one spring, wherein the front spring tab engages the front spring surface when the bladed element is in a forward blade position, and wherein the rear spring tab engages the rear spring surface when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position; a track frame having a first front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a first rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, a forward locking tab biased toward the bladed element, and a rearward locking tab biased toward the bladed element; wherein the forward locking tab engages the rear lock surface when the bladed element is in the forward blade position, wherein the rearward locking tab engages the front lock surface when the bladed element is in the rearward blade position, wherein a first length of forward the locking tab includes a first inclined structure, and wherein a second length of the rearward locking tab includes a second inclined structure; a switchplate having a second front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a second rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, a forward lock interface structure configured to abut against the first inclined structure of the forward locking tab such that the forward locking tab disengages from the rear lock surface when the forward lock interface structure reaches a first predefined point of the first inclined structure, and a rearward lock interface structure configured to abut against the second inclined structure of the rearward locking tab such that the rearward locking tab disengages from the front lock surface when the rearward lock interface structure reaches a second predefined point of the second inclined structure; a switch coupled to the switchplate, wherein the switch is configured to move the switchplate between a forward switch position and a rearward switch position, wherein an opening motion from the rearward switch position to the forward switch position causes the rearward lock interface structure to reach the second predefined point of the second inclined structures, and wherein and a closing motion from the forward switch position to the rearward switch the position causes the forward lock interface structure to reach the first predefined point of the first inclined structure.

[0099] Example 14. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 13, further comprising a housing that covers the bladed element when the bladedelement is in a rearward blade position, at least a portion of the spring assembly, at least a portion of the track frame, and at least a portion of the switchplate.

[0100] Example 15. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 13, wherein during an opening motion, the switchplate moves the front spring tab towards a forward end, and wherein during a closing motion, the switchplate moves the rear spring tab towards a rear end.

[0101] Example 16. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 13, further comprising a safety.

[0102] Example 17. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 16, wherein the safety prevents the opening motion by blocking the switchplate.

[0103] Example 18. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 13, wherein the rear lock surface and the rear spring surface are equivalent and form a rear engagement surface.

[0104] Example 19. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 13, wherein the front lock surface and the front spring surface are equivalent and form a front engagement surface.

[0105] Example 20. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 13, wherein the first front track, the second front track, the first rear track, and the second rear track are each linear and arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bladed element.

[0106] Example 21. An out-the-front knife assembly comprising: a bladed element having a front lock surface, a rear lock surface, a front spring surface, and a rear spring surface; a spring assembly having a front spring tab and a rear spring tab coupled by at least one spring, wherein the front spring tab engages the front spring surface when the bladed element is in a forward blade position, and wherein the rear spring tab engages the rear spring surface when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position; a track frame having a first front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a first rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a locking tab biased toward the bladed element; wherein the locking tab engages the rear lock surface when the bladed element is in the forward blade position, wherein the locking tab engages the front lock surface when the bladed element is in the rearward blade position; a switchplate having a second front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a second rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a lock interface structure; a switch coupled to the switchplate, wherein the switch is configured tomove the switchplate between a forward switch position and a rearward switch position; a directional lock toggle positioned on the locking tab and operatively coupled to the switchplate such that an opening motion from the rearward switch position to the forward switch position and a closing motion from the forward switch position to the rearward switch the position drives a rotation of the directional lock toggle such that a tip of the directional lock toggle opposite a pivot of the directional lock toggle along a longest dimension of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 20 degrees of perpendicular to a path of motion of the lock interface structure, and wherein an engagement of the tip of the directional lock toggle with the lock interface structure causes the locking tab to disengage from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface.

[0107] Example 22. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 21, wherein the tip of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 12 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion of the lock interface structure.

[0108] Example 23. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 22, wherein the tip of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 8 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion of the lock interface structure.

[0109] Example 24. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 23, wherein the tip of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 4 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion of the lock interface structure.

[0110] Example 25. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 21, further comprising a housing that covers the bladed element when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position, at least a portion of the spring assembly, at least a portion of the track frame, and at least a portion of the switchplate.

[0111] Example 26. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 21, wherein during an opening motion, the switchplate moves the front spring tab towards a forward end, and wherein during a closing motion, the switchplate moves the rear spring tab towards a rear end.

[0112] Example 27. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 21, further comprising a safety.

[0113] Example 28. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 27, wherein the safety prevents the opening motion by blocking the switchplate.

[0114] Example 29. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 21, wherein the rear lock surface and the rear spring surface are equivalent and form a rear engagement surface.

[0115] Example 30. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 21, wherein the front lock surface and the front spring surface are equivalent and form a front engagement surface.

[0116] Example 31. The knife assembly of any of the preceding examples but particularly of example 21, wherein the first front track, the second front track, the first rear track, and the second rear track are each linear and arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bladed element.

[0117] References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an illustrative embodiment,” “some embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may or may not necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0118] As used in the description and claims, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include both singular and plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “spring” may include, and is contemplated to include, a plurality of springs. At times, the claims and disclosure may include terms such as “a plurality,” “one or more,” or “at least one;” however, the absence of such terms is not intended to mean, and should not be interpreted to mean, that a plurality is not conceived.

[0119] The term “about” or “approximately,” when used before a numerical designation or range (e.g., to define a length or pressure), indicates approximations which may vary by ( + ) or ( - ) 5%, 1% or 0.1%. All numerical ranges provided herein are inclusive of the stated start and end numbers. The term “substantially” indicates mostly (i.e., greater than 50%) or essentially all of a device, substance, or composition.

[0120] As used herein, the term “comprising” or “comprises” is intended to mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recited elements, and may additionally include any other elements. “Consisting essentially of’ shall mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recited elements and exclude other elements of essential significance to the combination for the stated purpose. Thus, a system or method consisting essentially of the elements as defined herein would not exclude other materials, features, or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed disclosure. “Consisting of’ shall mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recited elements and exclude anything more than a trivial or inconsequential element or step. Embodiments defined by each of these transitional terms are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0121] The examples and illustrations included herein show, by way of illustration and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived therefrom, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred to herein individually or collectively by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept, if more than one is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.

Claims

CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An out-the-front knife assembly comprising: a bladed element having a front lock surface, a rear lock surface, a front spring surface, and a rear spring surface; a spring assembly having a front spring tab and a rear spring tab coupled by at least one spring, wherein the front spring tab engages the front spring surface when the bladed element is in a forward blade position, and wherein the rear spring tab engages the rear spring surface when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position; a track frame having a first front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a first rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a locking tab biased toward the bladed element; wherein the locking tab engages the rear lock surface when the bladed element is in the forward blade position, wherein the locking tab engages the front lock surface when the bladed element is in the rearward blade position, and wherein a length of the locking tab includes an inclined structure having a length and an apex; a switchplate having a second front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a second rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a lock interface structure configured to abut against the inclined structure of the locking tab such that the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is within 15% of the length of the inclined structure to the apex; a switch coupled to the switchplate, wherein the switch is configured to move the switchplate between a forward switch position and a rearward switch position, wherein an opening motion from the rearward switch position to the forward switch position and a closing motion from the forward switch position to the rearward switch the position causes the lock interface structure to pass the apex of the inclined structure.

2. The knife assembly of claim 1, further comprising a housing that covers the bladed element when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position, at least a portion of the spring assembly, at least a portion of the track frame, and at least a portion of the switchplate.

3. The knife assembly of claim 1, wherein during an opening motion, the switchplate moves the front spring tab towards a forward end, and wherein during a closing motion, the switchplate moves the rear spring tab towards a rear end.

4. The knife assembly of claim 1, further comprising a safety.

5. The knife assembly of claim 4, wherein the safety prevents the opening motion by blocking the switchplate.

6. The knife assembly of claim 1, wherein the rear lock surface and the rear spring surface are equivalent and form a rear engagement surface.

7. The knife assembly of claim 1, wherein the front lock surface and the front spring surface are equivalent and form a front engagement surface.

8. The knife assembly of claim 1, wherein the first front track, the second front track, the first rear track, and the second rear track are each linear and arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bladed element.

9. The knife assembly of claim 1, wherein the bladed element further comprises a blade edge.

10. The knife assembly of claim 1, wherein the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is within 8% of the length of the inclined structure to the apex.

11. The knife assembly of claim 10, wherein the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is within 5% of the length of the inclined structure to the apex.

12. The knife assembly of claim 11, wherein the locking tab disengages from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface when the lock interface structure is approximately at the apex of the inclined structure.

13. An out-the-front knife assembly comprising: a bladed element having a front lock surface, a rear lock surface, a front spring surface, and a rear spring surface; a spring assembly having a front spring tab and a rear spring tab coupled by at least one spring, wherein the front spring tab engages the front spring surface when the bladed element is in a forward blade position, and wherein the rear spring tab engages the rear spring surface when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position; a track frame having a first front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a first rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, a forward locking tab biased toward the bladed element, and a rearward locking tab biased toward the bladed element; wherein the forward locking tab engages the rear lock surface when the bladed element is in the forward blade position, wherein the rearward locking tab engages the front lock surface when the bladed element is in the rearward blade position, wherein a first length of forward the locking tab includes a first inclined structure, and wherein a second length of the rearward locking tab includes a second inclined structure; a switchplate having a second front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a second rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, a forward lock interface structure configured to abut against the first inclined structure of the forward locking tab such that the forward locking tab disengages from the rear lock surface when the forward lock interface structure reaches a first predefined point of the first inclined structure, and a rearward lock interface structure configured to abut against the second inclined structure of the rearward locking tab such that the rearward locking tab disengages from the front lock surface when the rearward lock interface structure reaches a second predefined point of the second inclined structure; a switch coupled to the switchplate, wherein the switch is configured to move the switchplate between a forward switch position and a rearward switch position, wherein an opening motion from the rearward switch position to the forward switch position causes the rearward lock interface structure to reach the second predefined point of the second inclined structures, and wherein and a closing motion from the forward switch position to the rearward switch the position causes the forward lock interface structure to reach the first predefined point of the first inclined structure.

14. The knife assembly of claim 13, further comprising a housing that covers the bladed element when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position, at least a portion of the spring assembly, at least a portion of the track frame, and at least a portion of the switchplate.

15. The knife assembly of claim 13, wherein during an opening motion, the switchplate moves the front spring tab towards a forward end, and wherein during a closing motion, the switchplate moves the rear spring tab towards a rear end.

16. The knife assembly of claim 13, further comprising a safety.

17. The knife assembly of claim 16, wherein the safety prevents the opening motion by blocking the switchplate.

18. The knife assembly of claim 13, wherein the rear lock surface and the rear spring surface are equivalent and form a rear engagement surface.

19. The knife assembly of claim 13, wherein the front lock surface and the front spring surface are equivalent and form a front engagement surface.

20. The knife assembly of claim 13, wherein the first front track, the second front track, the first rear track, and the second rear track are each linear and arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bladed element.

21. An out-the-front knife assembly comprising: a bladed element having a front lock surface, a rear lock surface, a front spring surface, and a rear spring surface; a spring assembly having a front spring tab and a rear spring tab coupled by at least one spring, wherein the front spring tab engages the front spring surface when the bladed element is in a forward blade position, and wherein the rear spring tab engages the rear spring surface when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position; a track frame having a first front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a first rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a locking tab biased toward the bladed element;wherein the locking tab engages the rear lock surface when the bladed element is in the forward blade position, wherein the locking tab engages the front lock surface when the bladed element is in the rearward blade position; a switchplate having a second front track configured to receive the front spring tab, a second rear track configured to receive the rear spring tab, and a lock interface structure; a switch coupled to the switchplate, wherein the switch is configured to move the switchplate between a forward switch position and a rearward switch position; a directional lock toggle positioned on the locking tab and operatively coupled to the switchplate such that an opening motion from the rearward switch position to the forward switch position and a closing motion from the forward switch position to the rearward switch the position drives a rotation of the directional lock toggle such that a tip of the directional lock toggle opposite a pivot of the directional lock toggle along a longest dimension of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 20 degrees of perpendicular to a path of motion of the lock interface structure, and wherein an engagement of the tip of the directional lock toggle with the lock interface structure causes the locking tab to disengage from the front lock surface and the rear lock surface.

22. The knife assembly of claim 21, wherein the tip of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 12 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion of the lock interface structure.

23. The knife assembly of claim 22, wherein the tip of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 8 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion of the lock interface structure.

24. The knife assembly of claim 23, wherein the tip of the directional lock toggle engages the lock interface structure when the longest dimension of the directional lock toggle is within at least 4 degrees of perpendicular to the path of motion of the lock interface structure.

25. The knife assembly of claim 21, further comprising a housing that covers the bladed element when the bladed element is in a rearward blade position, at least a portion of the spring assembly, at least a portion of the track frame, and at least a portion of the switchplate.

26. The knife assembly of claim 21, wherein during an opening motion, the switchplate moves the front spring tab towards a forward end, and wherein during a closing motion, the switchplate moves the rear spring tab towards a rear end.

27. The knife assembly of claim 21, further comprising a safety.

28. The knife assembly of claim 27, wherein the safety prevents the opening motion by blocking the switchplate.

29. The knife assembly of claim 21, wherein the rear lock surface and the rear spring surface are equivalent and form a rear engagement surface.

30. The knife assembly of claim 21, wherein the front lock surface and the front spring surface are equivalent and form a front engagement surface.

31. The knife assembly of claim 21, wherein the first front track, the second front track, the first rear track, and the second rear track are each linear and arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bladed element.

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