Blocking mechanism for firearm fire control components

Abstract

A fire control blocking assembly for a remote-actuated firearm. In one example, a fire control blocking assembly includes a blocking device repeatably movable between a first (e.g., blocking) position and a second (e.g., non-blocking) position, the blocking device configured to engage, in the first position, at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm to restrict movement of the at least one component of the fire control assembly. Examples of the fire control blocking assembly further include an electromechanical actuator coupled to the blocking device and configured to cause, based on a control signal from a remote device, the blocking device to move from the first position into the second position.

Description

Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1BLOCKING MECHANISM FOR FIREARM FIRE CONTROL COMPONENTSInventors:Jacob R. Schaddel Zachary A. AmicoCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 703,292 titled “BLOCKING MECHANISM FOR FIREARM FIRE CONTROL COMPONENTS” and filed on October 4, 2024, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] This disclosure relates to relates generally to mechanisms for remote-actuated weapons and more particularly to a fire control blocking mechanism for remote-actuated firearms.BACKGROUND

[0003] An unmanned aerial system (UAS) can include an unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV or UAV), which is an unmanned aerial vehicle that can be used for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance. Some UAVs carry ordnance, such as missiles, anti-tank missiles, or bombs. Other UAVs carry small arms capable of firing on a target. With the advent of drone technology, remote-actuated (also referred to as remote-fired) weapons have become more common. For example, a firearm or other device can be attached to or carried by a drone and actuated remotely to fire the weapon. For example, an operator runs the aerial vehicle remotely from the ground and can also remotely fire or actuate weapons onboard the aerial vehicle. In addition to use by the military, drones are used by some law enforcement agencies, particularly for surveillance, but sometimes with the capability to engage a target.SUMMARY

[0004] Examples are directed to a firearm having improved control over the fire control assembly, including a mechanism that restricts or blocks movement of the sear and / or an energized component (e.g., hammer) of the fire control assembly to prevent unwanted discharge of the firearm. Further examples are directed to a firearm having a remote-actuatedAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 trigger mechanism. In some examples, the trigger mechanism includes a cam assembly that is actuated by an electromechanical actuator, such as an electric motor. The firearm may be a handgun, such as a semiautomatic handgun, rifle, or other type of firearm.

[0005] According to certain examples, an assembly for a remote-actuated firearm comprises a fire control blocking mechanism that is repeatably movable between a first position (e.g., a blocking position) and a second position (e.g., a non-blocking position) based on a control signal from a remote device. In some examples, the blocking mechanism is actuated by an electromechanical actuator, such as an electric motor or solenoid motor, that is energized and / or rotates or translates in response to the control signal. The blocking mechanism is configured to engage or positioned to engage, in the blocking position, at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm to restrict or block movement of the at least one component of the fire control assembly. In some examples, the at least one component of the fire control assembly includes the sear. In such embodiments, for example, the assembly prevents the sear from moving sufficiently to release the striker or hammer.

[0006] According to certain examples, a remote-actuated trigger assembly for a firearm comprises a trigger, an electric motor configured to rotate between a first position and a second position, and a cam assembly coupled to the electric motor and configured to rotate with the electric motor. In some examples, the cam assembly includes a cam horn coupled to the motor, and a cam coupled to the cam horn and configured to engage the trigger. Rotation of the electric motor from the first position to the second position can cause the cam to press the trigger to discharge the firearm.

[0007] Numerous additional examples and variations will be apparent in light of the present disclosure.

[0008] The aspects and advantages described herein are not all-inclusive and, in particular, many additional aspects and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings, specification, and claims. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been selected principally for readability and instructional purposes and not to limit the scope of the disclosed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a right-side view of a firearm having a motor-actuated trigger mechanism, showing the trigger in the firing position, in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0010] FIG. 2A is an illustration of right-side view of some components of the firearm of FIG. 1, including a blocking mechanism in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0011] FIG. 2B is an illustration of a right-side view of some components of the firearm of FIG. 2A showing components of the blocking mechanism, in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0012] FIG. 3 A is an illustration of certain components of the firearm of FIG. 1, including components of a fire control blocking assembly in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein. FIG. 3 A illustrates a blocking mechanism in the on / engaged state.

[0013] FIG. 3B is an is an illustration of certain components of the firearm of FIG. 1, including components of the fire control blocking assembly of FIG. 3 A in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein. FIG. 3B illustrates the blocking mechanism in the off / disengaged state.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a sear extension in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a sear in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a diagram of an actuator in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a top view showing some components of the firearm of FIG. 1, and showing an example of the actuation bar in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a diagram of a hammer for a firearm, in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0019] FIG. 9 is an illustration showing a perspective view of a portion a firearm including a fire control blocking mechanism in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0020] FIG. 10A is an illustration of a side view of some components of the firearm of FIG.9, showing the fire control blocking mechanism in the on / engaged state, according to certain examples disclosed herein.

[0021] FIG. 10B is an illustration of a perspective view of some components of the firearm of FIG. 9, showing the fire control blocking mechanism in the on / engaged state, in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0022] FIG. 11 A is an illustration of a side view of some components of the firearm of FIG. 9, showing the fire control blocking mechanism in the off / released state, according to certain examples disclosed herein.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0023] FIG. 1 IB is an illustration of a perspective view of some components of the firearm of FIG. 9, showing the fire control blocking mechanism in the off / released state, in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a control system for a blocking mechanism for a remote- actuated firearm, in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0025] FIG. 13 A is a block diagram of a control system for a remote-actuated firearm, in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0026] FIG. 13B is a block diagram of a control system for a remote-actuated trigger mechanism in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0027] FIG. 14A is an illustration of some components of the firearm of FIG. 1, showing a remote-actuated trigger mechanism in an off-trigger position, according to certain examples disclosed herein.

[0028] FIG. 14B is an illustration of certain components of the firearm of FIG. 1, showing the remote-actuated trigger mechanism in an on-trigger (firing) position, according to certain examples disclosed herein.

[0029] FIG. 15 A is a diagram illustrating a plan view of a cam for a remote-actuated trigger mechanism, in accordance with certain examples disclosed herein.

[0030] FIG. 15B is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an example of the cam of FIG. 15 A.

[0031] These and other features of the examples described in present disclosure will be better understood by reading the following detailed description, taken together with the Figures herein described. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. Furthermore, as will be appreciated, the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale or intended to limit the present disclosure to the specific configurations shown. In short, the Figures are provided merely to show example structures.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Disclosed are techniques and structures related to the operation of remote-actuated firearms. In particular, certain examples relate to a fire control blocking mechanism for semiautomatic handguns and / or rifles that are controlled (e.g., fired) by a remote operator. In one example, a blocking mechanism includes a blocking device that is selectively and repeatably movable between a first position (e.g., a blocking position) and a second position (e.g., a non-blocking position) based on a control signal from a remote device, the blocking device being configured to in the blocking position, restrict movement of at least oneAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 component of a fire control assembly of the firearm. In some examples, the blocking device is actuated by an electromechanical actuator that is driven in response to the control signal. In some examples, in the blocking position, the blocking device engages the at least one component of the fire control assembly to restrict its movement, as described further below. In some examples, the fire control blocking mechanism is, by default, in an engaged state, with the blocking device in the blocking position, and is released / disengaged when the electromechanical actuator is energized or driven in response to the control signal.

[0033] As described further below, in some examples, the blocking mechanism includes a blocking component that is movable along an axel between a blocking position and a nonblocking position, the blocking component configured to, in the blocking position, restrict movement of at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm. The axel may be part of, or coupled to, the frame of the firearm. The at least one component of the fire control assembly may include the sear and / or the hammer, for example. In some examples the blocking mechanism includes a compression spring positioned on the axel and configured to bias the blocking component in the blocking position when the electromechanical actuator is in a first position. The blocking mechanism may further include an actuation bar configured to engage the blocking component. The actuation bar may be coupled to the electromechanical actuator and configured to rotate based on movement of the electromechanical actuator between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The actuation bar can be configured to, in the engaged position, retain the blocking component in the second disk position.

[0034] Further examples related to a trigger mechanism that can be actuated in response to a trigger control signal from the remote device. In some examples, the trigger mechanism includes a cam assembly that is actuated by an electric motor in response to the trigger control signal. In some examples, the cam assembly includes a cam horn coupled to the electric motor and a cam coupled to the cam horn and configured to engage a trigger of a firearm. As the cam assembly rotates with rotation of the electric motor from a first position to a second position, the cam presses the trigger to cause the firearm to discharge.

[0035] Examples of the fire control blocking mechanism and / or the trigger mechanism are useful for any type of remote-actuated firearm, including handgun-style firearms and / or riflestyle firearms. The firearms may be hammer-fired or striker-fired. In some examples, the firearms are semiautomatic firearms.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1General Overview

[0036] Reliable control is an important consideration for firearms designers. In particular, for remote-actuated firearms, where the operator may be distant from the weapon itself, there is a need for a robust and reliable trigger mechanism. In addition, a need to prevent accidental or unintentional firing / discharge of the weapon presents important considerations and challenges. For example, as a drone returns to its operator, the barrel of the firearm is directed in the general direction of the operator and it would be desirable to block the firing capability to prevent inadvertently firing on the operator or those in the vicinity. As described above, in some scenarios, remote-actuated weapons are carried by drones or other small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Weight, therefore, may be a significant consideration in the design of firearms intended to be operated while onboard a UAV. Accordingly, providing robust, reliable operating features while also complying with significant restrictions on the weight of the overall system may present non-trivial challenges in the design of remote-actuated firearms.

[0037] To address these and other considerations, certain examples disclosed herein provide a fire control blocking assembly for a remote-actuated firearm, and further examples provide a remote-actuated trigger mechanism. In one example, the fire control blocking assembly may comprise a blocking device that is repeatably movable between a blocking position and a nonblocking position, the blocking device being configured to, in the blocking position, restrict movement of at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm. The fire control blocking assembly may further comprise an electromechanical actuator coupled to the blocking device and configured to cause, based on a control signal from a remote device, the blocking device to move from the blocking position into the non-blocking position.

[0038] In one example, a fire control blocking assembly comprises an electromechanical actuator, such as a solenoid motor, that is operable between an energized state and a deenergized state, and a blocking component movable between a blocking position and a nonblocking position. In some examples, the blocking component is configured to engage, in the blocking position, at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm to restrict movement of the at least one component of the fire control assembly. The fire control blocking assembly may further comprise an actuation bar coupled to the electromechanical actuator and configured to retain the blocking component in the non-blocking position when the electromechanical actuator is in the energized state.

[0039] In another example, a fire control blocking assembly for a firearm comprises an electromechanical actuator configured to move between a first position and a second positionAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 based on a control signal, and a blocking component movable along an axel between a blocking position and a non-blocking position, the blocking component configured to, in the blocking position, restrict movement of at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm. In some examples, the electromechanical actuator includes an electric motor configured to rotate between the first and second positions. In some examples, the electromechanical actuator includes a solenoid motor configured to translate between the first and second positions. The fire control blocking assembly may further comprise a compression spring positioned on the axel and configured to bias the blocking component in the blocking position when the electromechanical actuator is in the first position. In some examples in which the electromechanical actuator includes the electric motor, the fire control blocking assembly may further comprise an actuation bar coupled to the electric motor and configured to rotate with the electric motor, the actuation bar configured to engage the blocking component and to retain the blocking component in the non-blocking position when the electric motor is in the second position.

[0040] Another example is directed to a firearm frame assembly comprising a frame extending along a bore axis, and a fire control assembly attached to the frame. The fire control assembly may include a trigger, a hammer, and a sear operable between a first sear position and a second sear position, wherein the sear is configured to, in the first sear position, engage and retain the hammer in a cocked position until the sear disengages from the hammer and moves into the second sear position in response to the trigger being pressed. The firearm frame assembly may further comprise a blocking component configured to translate along an axel of the frame between a blocking position and a non-blocking position, the blocking component arranged to, in the blocking position, prevent movement of the sear from the first sear position into the second sear position. The firearm frame assembly may further comprise an actuation bar arranged to engage the blocking component; the actuation bar configured to rotate in response to a control signal to move the blocking component from the blocking position into the non-blocking position to release the sear thereby allowing the sear to move into the second sear position in response to the trigger being pressed.

[0041] The fire control blocking assemblies according to examples described in the present disclosure advantageously improve operation of remote-actuated firearms by providing a mechanism that can be released by a remote operator to allow intentional discharge of the firearm while otherwise restricting movement of at least one component of the fire control assembly to prevent accidental discharge of the firearm. As described further below, in certain examples, the blocking mechanism is configured to physically block movement of the at leastAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 one component of the fire control assembly, and is arranged to default or rest in the blocking position. The blocking mechanism is configured to be released either in response to a control signal or by a user (who has the firearm in hand) actuating a manual override lever. These features, together or independently, can reduce or eliminate unintentional discharge of the firearm.

[0042] In one example, a remote-actuated trigger assembly for a firearm comprises a trigger, an electric motor configured to rotate between a first position and a second position based on a control signal that specifies a motor position, and a cam assembly coupled to the electric motor and configured to rotate with the electric motor. The cam assembly may include a cam horn coupled to the motor, and a cam coupled to the cam horn and configured to engage the trigger. Rotation of the electric motor from the first position to the second position may cause the cam to press the trigger to discharge the firearm.

[0043] As will be appreciated in light of this disclosure, and in accordance with examples disclosed herein, a blocking mechanism and its components can be used with hammer-fired and other semiautomatic handguns or rifles in accordance with present disclosure. Examples of the present disclosure are discussed in the context of a hammer-fired firearm; however, concepts of the disclosure are not so limited and can be applied, for example, to striker-fired firearms as well. Similarly, it is contemplated that the trigger mechanism and / or fire control features of the present disclosure may be implemented in a variety of host firearms, not limited to the particular examples described and illustrated herein. Numerous configurations and variations will be apparent in light of this disclosure.Structure and Operation

[0044] Referring to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a right-side view of an example of a semiautomatic remote-actuated firearm 100 in accordance with an example. The firearm 100 has a slide 102 that is displaceable along a frame 104 in a direction generally parallel to a bore axis 106 of the firearm 100. The frame 104 may be made of metal, such as stainless steel or aluminum, for example. As used herein, the term “frame” refers to the serialized component of a firearm (such as the firearm 100) that houses components of the fire control assembly. In some examples, certain components of a fire control blocking assembly are also housed in the frame 104, as described further below. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the firearm 100 includes an electromechanical actuator 108 mounted to the frame 104. The electromechanical actuator 108 is used to actuate certain fire control blocking features of the firearm 100 (some components of which are housed in the frame 104), as described in more detail below. In someAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 examples, the electromechanical actuator 108 is bolted or otherwise fixedly secured to the frame 104. As described further below, the electromechanical actuator 108 can include a motor, such as an electric motor or a solenoid motor, for example.

[0045] A magazine containing one or more rounds of ammunition can be installed in a magazine well defined by a body portion 110 that is coupled to the frame 104. When a magazine of ammunition is installed in the magazine well, ammunition can be fed from the magazine into a chamber of a barrel 120 of the firearm 100. In some examples, the firearm 100 further includes a mounting bracket 112 that is coupled to the frame 104. The mounting bracket 112 can be used to secure the firearm 100 to a platform, such as a UAV, for example, and / or to accommodate components of the firearm 100 that are not directly mounted to the frame 104. For example, the firearm 100 includes a trigger 114 that can be engaged by a cam assembly 116 to discharge the firearm 100, as described in more detail below. The cam assembly 116 can be actuated by a trigger motor 118 that may be secured to the mounting bracket 112, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0046] FIG. 2A is a side view illustrating certain components of an example of the firearm 100. FIG. 2B is a further side view illustrating some components of the example of FIG. 2A. In FIGS. 2A and 2B, the frame 104 of FIG. 1 is not shown to permit visibility of certain components of the fire control assembly and certain fire control blocking components that are housed by the frame 104. For example, the firearm 100 may include a sear 202 and a trigger bar 204 that couples the trigger 114 to the sear 202. In the illustrated example, the firearm 100 is a hammer-fired handgun, and therefore includes a hammer 206. The sear 202 engages the hammer 206 and serves as a “latch” to hold the hammer 206 (or the striker in a striker-fired weapon) in a cocked position, preventing the firearm 100 from discharging until the trigger 114 is pressed. When the trigger 114 is pressed (e.g., manually, via the cam assembly 116, or via another mechanism), the sear 202 is released, allowing the hammer 206 to move forward, striking a firing pin (not shown) to ultimately cause the discharge of the firearm 100. In particular, in the illustrated example, pressing the trigger 114 pulls the trigger bar 204 forward (in the direction of travel of a fired bullet along the bore axis 106), which causes the sear 202 to pivot off the hammer 206, allowing the hammer 206 to rotate and strike the firing pin (not shown). In other embodiments, the trigger bar 204 can be configured to move in a rearward direction in response to moving the trigger 114 to the fire position.

[0047] According to certain examples, a fire control blocking assembly for the firearm 100 operates by blocking movement of the sear 202 to a disengaged position with respect to the hammer 206 (or striker). When the fire control blocking mechanism is engaged, the sear 202Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 is prevented from pivoting off the hammer 206, and the hammer 206 therefore cannot rotate to strike the firing pin. In contrast, when the fire control blocking mechanism is released, the sear 202 is allowed to move when the trigger 114 is pressed. Some handguns include a catch (or lever, or other device) that can be manually actuated by a human operator to release the sear 202. However, for remote-actuated firearms where the human operator may be distant from the weapon itself, an alternate approach for releasing one or more components of the fire control assembly mechanism (to allow firing of the firearm 100) is provided in accordance with examples described herein. In some examples, the electromechanical actuator 108 is used to release the fire control blocking mechanism based on a control signal. According to certain examples, this fire control blocking mechanism includes an actuation bar 208, a blocking component 210, and a sear extension 212. Each of these components is described further below. In certain examples, the electromechanical actuator 108 is a servo motor that is driven between two rotational positions and correspondingly actuates the fire control blocking mechanism between an “on” or blocking state and an “off’ or non-blocking state. For example, a servo motor can be driven by a control signal that identifies / controls whether the motor should be in the first rotational position (and the fire control blocking mechanism therefore in the on state) or the second position (such that the fire control blocking mechanism is therefore released or in the off state). In other examples, the electromechanical actuator 108 can be a solenoid motor that translates between first and second positions and correspondingly actuates the fire control blocking mechanism between the blocking state and the non-blocking state. The electromechanical actuator 108 together with the blocking mechanism provide a remote- actuated fire control blocking assembly that, in some examples, has a “fail-safe” configuration. For example, if communication with a remote source is lost, such that the electromechanical actuator 108 fails to receive the control signal, or power to the electromechanical actuator 108 is not supplied (the electromechanical actuator is deenergized), the electromechanical actuator 108 and the blocking mechanism can be configured to be in the on state, such that, in this condition, movement of the sear 202 is blocked. When the electromechanical actuator 108 has power and receives the control signal that specifies that the electromechanical actuator is to be rotated / translated into the second position, the blocking mechanism can be released, allowing movement of the sear 202 and discharge of the firearm 100. In some instances, the electromechanical actuator may include, or may be coupled to, a back-up battery that can supply power (in the event power to the electromechanical actuator is otherwise lost) to cause the electromechanical actuator to actuate the blocking mechanism into the blocking position to prevent accidental discharge of the firearm 100.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0048] Referring now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, illustrated are portions of an example of the firearm 100 showing components of the fire control blocking assembly with the blocking mechanism in the on state (FIG. 3 A) and off state (FIG. 3B). In the example of FIGS. 3 A and 3B, the electromechanical actuator 108 is implemented using a motor 308, such as an electric motor, for example. In some examples, the blocking component 210 is mounted on an axel 302 that is coupled to, or part of, the frame 104. The blocking component 210 is configured to slide along the axel 302 and is biased by a compression spring 304 that is also mounted on the axel 302. In the example illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the blocking component 210 is a disk; however, in other examples, the blocking component 210 may have a different shape and / or configuration. For example, the blocking component 210 may have a rectangular shape, or wedge shape. Numerous variations will be apparent in light of this disclosure. In some examples, the blocking component 210 is made of metal, such as stainless steel, for example, 17-4Ph stainless steel, although other materials may be used. According to certain examples, the blocking component 210 is movable along the axel 302 between the blocking position (shown in FIG. 3 A) in which the fire control blocking mechanism is on / engaged, and the nonblocking position (shown in FIG. 3B) in which the fire control blocking mechanism is off / released. The actuation bar 208 is arranged to engage the blocking component 210 and move the blocking component 210 between the blocking and non-blocking positions with respect to the sear 202, sear extension 212, or other fire control component(s). The actuation bar 208 is coupled to the motor 308 via a fastener 306. Features and operation of the actuation bar 208 are described further below. In some examples, the firearm 100 further includes a manual override lever 312 that can be used to override certain operations of the fire control blocking mechanism, as described further below.

[0049] According to certain examples, the blocking mechanism includes the sear extension 212 that is coupled to the sear 202. In some examples, the sear extension 212 is configured to rotate about the same axis as the sear 202. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 A and 3B, the sear 202 and the sear extension 212 may be positioned on, and configured to rotate about, a rod 320. The sear extension 212 acts to elongate the sear 202 towards the axel 302, thereby allowing the blocking component 210 to restrict movement of the sear 202, as described further below. An example of the sear extension 212 is illustrated in FIG. 4. An example of the sear 202 is illustrated in FIG. 5. In other embodiments, the sear extension 212 can be omitted, where the blocking mechanism is positioned in the blocking position to directly engage the hammer 206 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 A and described further below) and / or sear 202, for example.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0050] Referring to FIG. 4, according to certain examples, the sear extension 212 includes an attachment region 402 and an arm 404 that extends away from the attachment region 402. The arm 404 includes a tip region 406 that can be engaged by the blocking component 210, as described further below. The arm 404 is shaped to extend past (e.g., below, as shown in FIGS. 3 A and 3B) a rod 310 that couples the hammer 206 to the frame 104 and bring the tip region 406 into proximity with the axel 302 on which the blocking component 210 is mounted. In some examples, the attachment region 402 of the sear extension 212 includes a first opening 408 to allow mounting of the sear extension to the rod 320 For example, the rod 320 may extend through the first opening 408, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, and the sear extension 212 is configured to rotate about the rod 320 (e.g., about an axis that extends longitudinally along the rod 320). The sear extension may further include a second opening 410 configured to receive a post 502 (see FIG. 5) that is part of the sear 202. The sear extension 212 is mated (e.g., fixedly coupled) to the sear 202 via the post 502.

[0051] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of the sear 202. In this example, the sear 202 includes a first opening 504 to accommodate the rod 320. The sear 202 may further include a second opening 506 through which the trigger bar 204 extends, thus coupling the sear 202 to the trigger bar 204 and trigger 114. The sear 202 further includes a shelf 508 that engages the hammer 206. Thus, with the sear extension 212 coupled to the sear 202 via the post 502, when the trigger bar 204 pulls the sear 202 forward (as described above), the sear 202 and the sear extension 212 rotate about the axis of the rod 320 (extending through the openings 504 and 408). With this movement, the sear 202 pivots off the hammer 206, allowing the hammer 206 to rotate, as described above. In addition, the rotational movement of the sear 202 and the sear extension 212 causes the tip region 406 of the arm 404 of the sear extension 212 to lift upwards.

[0052] In some examples, the sear 202 and the sear extension 212 are separate components that are mated together (e.g., via the post 502 and the opening 410 in the attachment region of the sear extension 212), as described above. However, in other examples, the sear 202 and the sear extension 212 can be formed as a single unitary component. Thus, in some examples, the sear extension 212 may be an integral part or region of the sear 202 rather than a component that is coupled to the sear 202. In some examples, the sear extension 212 acts as a physical stop to prevent or restrict movement of the sear 202. Furthermore, in some examples it may be desirable to reduce the weight of the sear extension 212 to reduce inertia to avoid or reduce unintentional movement of the sear extension in the event of sudden acceleration / deceleration of the firearm 100 (or platform on which the firearm 100 is carried, such as in the event of a crash. Thus, it may be desirable to make the sear extension 212 as thin and small as reasonablyAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 possible, while also ensuring that the sear extension 212 is capable of handling the forces associated with acting as a physical stop for the sear 202. Thus, in some examples, the sear extension 212 is made of metal. For example, the sear extension 212 may be made of stainless steel, such as 17-4Ph stainless steel.

[0053] Returning to FIG. 3A, when the motor 308 is deenergized and / or in a first motor position (the blocking mechanism is on / engaged), the actuation bar 208 is in a resting position and the blocking component 210 is biased along the axel 302 into the blocking position by the compression spring 304. In this blocking position, the blocking component 210 blocks the sear extension 212 from lifting upwards, and thus, in turn, prevents the sear 202 from being rotated forward in response to a trigger press. For example, the blocking component 210 may engage the tip region 406 of the sear extension 212, as shown in FIG. 3A, preventing the tip region 406, and therefore the arm 404, from lifting. Thus, when the blocking mechanism is engaged, if the trigger 114 is pressed, movement of the sear 202 is physically blocked by the blocking component 210. Accordingly, the sear 202 cannot release the hammer 206, and the firearm 100 is prevented from being discharged.

[0054] Referring again to FIG. 3B, according to some examples, to release / disengage the blocking mechanism, the motor 308 is driven and rotated into a second motor position. Rotation of the motor 308 rotates the actuation bar 208. When the actuation bar 208 rotates, it presses against the blocking component 210 and moves the blocking component 210 against spring force along the axel 302 in the direction of arrow 314. Thus, the actuation bar 208 moves the blocking component 210 from the blocking position in which the tip region 406 of the sear extension 212 is blocked (shown in FIG. 3A) into a non-blocking position (shown in FIG. 3B) in which the blocking component 210 no longer blocks the sear extension 212 from lifting. In some examples, the compression spring 304 may be made as stiff as reasonably possible, considering torque constraints of the motor 308, for example, to reduce the likelihood that the compression spring 304 could accidentally compress (such as in the event of a crash or other sudden inertial change in the firearm 100 or platform on which it is carried) sufficiently to allow the blocking component 210 to be inadvertently moved out of the blocking position.

[0055] As described above, in some examples, the fire control blocking assembly has a failsafe configuration. In such examples, the actuation bar 208 is rotated by the motor 308 to press against the blocking component 210 and push the blocking component 210 into the nonblocking position only when the motor 308 is powered and receives a control signal indicating that the fire control blocking mechanism is to be released. If the motor 308 loses power (or fails to receive the control signal indicating that the fire control blocking mechanism is to beAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 released), the actuation bar no longer retains the blocking component 210 in the non-blocking position. Rather, the bias force of the compression spring 304 pushes the blocking component 210 back into the blocking position where it blocks movement of the sear extension 212, as described above. Thus, the blocking mechanism is, by default, engaged, and is actively released by driving the motor 308 (e.g., in response to the control signal, as described below). In some examples, the motor 308 may include, or may be coupled to, a back-up battery (not illustrated) and configured such that, in the event power to the motor 308 is otherwise lost, the back-up battery may supply power to cause the motor 308 to move to the first position such that the blocking component is in position.

[0056] As described above, in some examples, the actuation bar 208 is coupled to the motor 308 by a fastener 306. The fastener 306 may fixedly attach the actuation bar 208 to a movable (e.g., rotational) component of the motor 308, such that when the motor is energized and rotates, the actuation bar 208 rotates about an axis 602 (see FIG. 6) to exert pressure against the blocking component 210 to move the blocking component 210 into the non-blocking position, as described above. The fastener 306 may include one or more bolts, screws, and / or other attachment devices to mate the actuation bar 208 to the motor 308.

[0057] An example of the actuation bar 208 is illustrated in FIG. 6. In this example, the actuation bar 208 includes a central opening 604, formed in a body portion 618 of the actuation bar 208, through which the fastener 306 can be accommodated to couple the actuation bar 208 to the motor 308. The axis of rotation 602 extends through the central opening 604, as shown in FIG. 6, and the actuation bar 208 rotates about the axis 602. In some examples, the actuation bar 208 includes a first arm 606 extending outwardly from the body portion 618. The first arm 606 includes a pair of prongs 608a, 608b. Each of the prongs 608a, 608b includes a respective tip region 610 that engages the blocking component 210, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. The pair of prongs 608a, 608b are spaced apart from one another to create a gap 612 between the prongs 608a, 608b. Thus, the pair of prongs 608a, 608b contact the blocking component 210 at two spaced-apart locations on a same surface of the blocking component 210. Further, the gap 612 allows the first arm 606 to be positioned about the axel 302. For example, as shown in FIG. 3B, when the actuation bar 208 is rotated to push the blocking component 210 into the second position, the axel 302, and optionally a portion of the compression spring 304, extend(s) through the gap 612. Thus, in some examples, the prongs 608a, 608b of the first arm 606 of the actuation bar 208 are arranged to press against the blocking component 210 on both sides of the compression spring 304 and / or axel 302. This arrangement may advantageously balanceAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 the pressure applied against the blocking component 210 by the actuation bar 208, allowing the blocking component 210 to slide more easily / uniformly along the axel 302 without binding.

[0058] According to certain examples, the actuation bar 208 comprises a second arm 614 and a third arm 616, both extending outwardly from the body portion 618 and spaced apart from one another, and from the first arm 606, around a circumference of the body portion 618. These two additional arms 614, 616 may act as hard stops for the actuation bar 208, as described further below. Referring to FIG. 7, there is illustrated a portion of an example of the firearm 100 showing the actuation bar 208 and a portion of the frame 104. As illustrated, in some examples, the frame 104 includes a first sidewall 702 and a second sidewall 704. The actuation bar 208 is mounted to the motor 308 and positioned between the two opposing sidewalls 702, 704 of the frame 104. According to certain examples, when the blocking mechanism is off (in the position shown in FIG. 7), the third arm 616 is positioned proximate to, or optionally in contact with, the second sidewall 704 of the frame 104. When the blocking mechanism is on, the actuation bar 208 is rotated in the direction indicated by arrow 706 in FIG. 7, and the second arm 614 is moved into a position proximate to, or optionally in contact with, the first sidewall 702 of the frame 104. As noted above, in some examples, the second and third arms 614, 616 may acts as hard stops for the motor 308. For example, if the motor 308 loses power, the second arm 614 may act as a hard stop by contacting the first sidewall 702 and thereby preventing further rotation (e.g., over-rotation) of the actuation bar 208. In some examples, the second and third arms 614, 616 may act as hard stops for the actuation bar 208 when the manual override lever 312 is used, as described further below.

[0059] The actuation bar 208 may be made of coated metal, for example, for strength and ease of movement. In some examples, the actuation bar 208 is made of coated stainless steel, such as coated 17-4Ph stainless steel.

[0060] As described above, in some examples, the motor 308 is a servo motor that, upon receipt of an electrical control signal, rotates between two or more pre-set positions. In some examples, the pre-set positions can include a first position that orients the actuation bar 208 with the second arm 214 proximate, or optionally in contact with, the second sidewall 704 (fire control blocking mechanism is off) and a second position that orients the actuation bar 208 with the third arm 616 proximate, or optionally in contact with, the first sidewall 702 (fire control blocking mechanism is on). As described above, in some examples, the motor 308 is configured such that if the motor 308 loses power the motor 308 is in the first position (fire control blocking mechanism on). Furthermore, in some examples, the control signal specifies whether the motor 308 is to be in the first position or the second position. For example, theAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 control signal may normally specify that the motor 308 should be in the first position, such that the blocking mechanism is normally in the blocking position. Upon receipt of the control signal specifying that the motor 308 is to be rotated into the second position, the motor 308 may rotate to the second position, thereby releasing the blocking mechanism as described above. In other examples, the motor 308 can be configured to, upon receipt of the electrical control signal, rotate until the second arm 614 of the actuation bar contacts the second sidewall 704 of the frame 104, thus preventing further rotation of the actuation bar 208 and therefore of the motor 308. A force feedback signal, indicating that further rotation of the motor 308 is being resisted by the pressure of the second arm 614 against the second sidewall 704, may cause the motor 308 stop rotating. The motor 308 may remain in the first position (fire control blocking mechanism off) until, for example, (i) a control signal is received, indicating that the blocking mechanism is to be re-engaged, (ii) loss of power to the motor 308, (iii) the control signal indicating that the blocking mechanism was to be released ceases or is no longer received at the firearm 100, and / or (iv) expiration of a certain time period.

[0061] Thus, in certain examples, a fire control blocking mechanism for a firearm thus includes the blocking component 210 that is translatable between first and second positions, wherein, in one of the two positions (e.g., the blocking position described above), the blocking component physically prevents or restricts movement of the sear 202. Although described above and illustrated with reference to a hammer-fired handgun, examples of this fire control blocking mechanism may be implemented in striker-fired handguns (e.g., as described further below with reference to FIGS. 9 - 1 IB), and / or in hammer-fired or striker-fired rifles or other firearms in which restricting movement of the sear prevents discharge of the firearm.

[0062] According to certain examples, when the blocking component 210 is in the first position (FIG. 3 A), in addition to blocking the sear extension 212, the blocking component 210 also may be configured and arranged to physically block the hammer 206 from rotating. This provides an additional fire control feature for the firearm 100. An example of the hammer is illustrated in FIG. 8. As described above, the hammer 206 is configured to rotate about an axis 802 that extends longitudinally along the rod 310. In some examples, when the blocking component 210 is in the blocking position, the blocking component 210 engages a region 804 of the hammer 206. Thus, the hammer 206 is prevented from rotating forward to strike the firing pin because the blocking component 210 presses against the region 804 and physically restrains the hammer 206. In some examples, the hammer 206 includes a shelf 806 that is recessed relative to the region 804, as shown in FIG. 8. This shelf 806 provides space to accommodate the blocking component 210 when the blocking component 210 is moved intoAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 the non-blocking position by the actuation bar 208 (blocking mechanism is released / off). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3B, when the blocking component 210 is in the non-blocking position, the space provided by the shelf 806 allows the hammer 206 to rotate without being blocked by the blocking component 210. However, when the blocking component 210 is in the blocking position, the blocking component 210 blocks the hammer 206 at the region 804, such that the hammer 206 cannot rotate as needed to discharge the firearm 100. This arrangement can provide a further mechanism by which to prevent unintentional discharge of the firearm 100 in the event that the sear extension 212 is broken, deformed, or damaged, or otherwise fails to engage with the blocking component 210 when the blocking component 210 is in the blocking position (and the fire control blocking mechanism is intended to be on).

[0063] In some examples, when the trigger 114 is pressed and the fire control blocking mechanism is off, the sear 202 pivots off the hammer 206, as described above. With the trigger 114 pinned in the pressed position (e.g., as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2), the hammer 206 can be engaged by a disconnect 316. After the trigger 114 is pressed, the slide 102 cycles to reset the hammer 206. With the trigger 114 pinned in the pressed position, the sear 202 is out of position to catch the hammer 206 (as described above, the sear 202 is rotated forward); however, the hammer 206 is engaged and held in place by the disconnect 316. When the trigger is released, the sear 202 resets into position to catch the hammer 206, and the disconnect 316 “hands off’ the hammer 206 to the sear 202. When the hammer 206 is on the disconnect 316, the sear extension 212 is lifted. Accordingly, if the motor 308 is driven to the engage the blocking mechanism while the trigger 114 is pinned in the pressed position, although the blocking component 210 returns to the first position, it may not engage the sear extension 212 because the sear extension 212 is lifted. For example, the blocking component 210 may rest in the blocking position below the sear extension 212 and therefore may not operate to restrict movement of the sear 202. However, in this arrangement, the blocking component 210 may nevertheless engage the hammer 206 at the region 804, thus preventing the hammer 206 from rotating again and preventing discharge of the firearm 100.

[0064] Referring again to FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 7, in some examples, the fire control blocking assembly of the firearm 100 includes the manual override lever 312. The manual override lever 312 allows a user to manually override the blocking mechanism when the user has the firearm 100 in hand. This may be useful, for example, to clear a malfunction in one or more components of the firearm 100. As described above, in some examples, the blocking component 210 physically blocks the hammer 206 when the motor 308 is deenergized and / or in the second motor position, which may also prevent the slide 102 from being properly reset. Accordingly,Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 the manual override lever 312 provides the user with the ability to disengage the blocking mechanism and move the blocking component 210 out of the way to reset the hammer 206 even though the motor 308 is powered off. According to certain examples, the manual override lever 312 is keyed to, or otherwise mated with, the actuation bar 208, such that when the manual override lever 312 is pushed by a user, it rotates the actuation bar 208, causing the actuation bar 208 to push the blocking component 210 into the non-blocking position, which allows the hammer 206 to move. In some examples, the manual override lever 312 is made of aluminum; however, in other examples, other materials can be used. As described above, in some examples, the second and third arms 614, 616 of the actuation bar 208 can acts as hard stops, by contacting the respective sidewalls 702, 704 of the frame 104, when an operator uses the manual override lever to force movement of the actuation bar 208. This may prevent overrotation of the actuation bar 208 that could damage the motor 308 or cause misalignment of or damage to one or more components of the fire control blocking assembly. Thus, when the manual override lever 312 is being actuated, the second and third arms 614, 616 allow the actuation bar 208 to be rotatable between two hard stop positions defined by the second and third arms 614, 616 and the sidewalls 702, 704 of the frame 104.

[0065] While examples of the fire control blocking assembly have been described above with reference to a hammer-fired example of the firearm 100, examples of the fire control blocking assembly can also be implemented in a striker-fired example of the firearm 100. For example, referring to FIG. 9, there are illustrated some components of an example of a striker-fired firearm 100A. In this example, the fire control blocking mechanism, in the blocking position, is configured to restrict movement of the sear 202, as described above, to prevent the sear 202 from releasing the striker and allowing the firearm 100A to be discharged. The sear 202 is coupled to the trigger 114 via the trigger bar 204, similar to the example described above with reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B. In the example of FIG. 9, the electromechanical actuator 108 is implemented using a solenoid motor 908. A shaft extension (or axel) 902 is coupled to a shaft 904 of the solenoid motor to extend the shaft 904 past the sear 202. The blocking component 210 is positioned on the shaft extension 902 and configured to translate along the shaft extension 902 between a blocking position (in which the blocking component restricts movement of the sear 202) and a non-blocking component, as described above. The solenoid motor may be secured to the frame 104 via a solenoid bracket 906 or other mounting and fastening mechanism.

[0066] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate an example of certain components of the firearm 100 A, showing the blocking component 210 in the blocking position. In some examples, the solenoidAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 motor 908 is operable between an energized state and a deenergized state. The fore control blocking assembly can be configured such that, when the solenoid motor 908 is in the deenergized state, the blocking component 210 is in the blocking position, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. In this position, the compression spring 304 biases the blocking component 210 along the shaft extension 902 into a position that restricts movement of the sear 202. In the illustrated example, in the blocking position, the blocking component 210 is positioned below the sear 202, indicated at region 1002 in FIG. 10 A, and prevents or restricts the sear 202 from rotating off the striker (not shown) in the direction of arrow 1004 (FIG. 10B).

[0067] In contrast, referring to FIGS. 11 A and 1 IB, when the solenoid motor 908 is energized (e.g., in a response to a control signal as described above), movement (e.g., translation of a movable component) of the solenoid motor 908 overcomes the bias force of the compression spring 304 and moves (e.g., pulls, as in the illustrated example, or pushes) the blocking component 210 along the shaft extension 902 into the non-blocking position, out of the way of the sear 202 (e.g., as indicated at region 1102 in FIG. 11 A. Thus, with the blocking component 210 in the non-blocking position, when the trigger 114 is pressed, the sear 202 may rotate in the direction of arrow 1104 (FIG. 1 IB), releasing the striker and allowing the firearm 100A to discharge.

[0068] Thus, in some examples, based on whether the solenoid motor 908 is energized or deenergized (e.g., receives power or not), the blocking component 210 can be moved between the non-blocking position (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B) and the blocking position (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B). By configuring the fire control blocking assembly such that the blocking component 210 is in the blocking position when the solenoid motor is deenergized, the firearm 100A can be prevented from accidental discharge in the event that power to electromechanical actuator 108 is lost. In some examples, the solenoid motor 908 includes at least one movable component that translates (rather than rotates, as in examples of the motor 308 described above) between a first position (corresponding to the blocking component 210 being in the blocking position) and a second position (corresponding to the blocking component 210 being in the non-blocking position). However, in other examples, the solenoid motor may be configured to cause rotational movement, rather than translational movement, of the at least one movable component and / or one or more other components of the fire control blocking mechanism. Further, in some examples, the solenoid motor 908 may be controlled via a control signal that specifies the first and second positions of the solenoid motor, as described above with reference to the motor 308, rather than by being energized orAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 deenergized. Numerous variations will be apparent in light of this disclosure and are intended to be covered by this disclosure.

[0069] As described above, in some examples, the electromechanical actuator 108 can be operated in response to a control signal (e.g., a fire control signal) from a remote device. For example, an operator remote from the firearm 100 (or 100 A; the firearms 100 and 100 A being collectively / generally referred to as firearm 100 below) may transmit the control signal to the firearm 100 via an electronic device, such as a computing device, to turn off the fire control blocking mechanism and prepare the firearm 100 to fire. Accordingly, referring to FIG. 12, in some examples, the firearm 100 includes a communication interface 1202 configured to receive the control signal 1204. The communication interface 1202 may be a wired or wireless communication interface that can be configured to receive the control signal 1204 wirelessly (e.g., via a radio frequency (RF) or optical carrier signal) or over a cable or other signal conductor (not shown) attached to the communication interface 1202. The communication interface 1202 may pass the control signal 1204 (optionally formatted, down-converted, or otherwise processed, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art) to a controller 1206. In response to the control signal 1204, the controller 1206 may provide an electrical signal 1208 to the electromechanical actuator 108 to cause the electromechanical actuator 108 to move the blocking component 210 between the blocking position and the non-blocking position.

[0070] In some examples, the communication interface 1202 and / or the controller 1206 are part of an electronics sub-assembly of the firearm 100, which may also control one or more other features or operational parameters of the firearm 100. In some examples, the controller 1206 is part of the electromechanical actuator 108.

[0071] In some examples, the control signal 1204 is a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal. For example, the PWM signal may indicate a rotational position of the motor 308. For example, the control signal 1204 may specify a logical 1 for the first motor position or a logical zero for the second motor position, or vice versa. In other examples, the control signal 1204 may indicate a power status for the electromechanical actuator 108, such as whether the solenoid motor 908 should be energized or deenergized, for example. In some examples, the control signal 1204 may be continuously received via the communication interface 1202 during operation of the firearm 100, with the control signal 1204 indicating, at any given time, whether the electromechanical actuator 108 is to be in the first position (fire control blocking mechanism on) or second position (fire control blocking mechanism off). According to certain examples, the controller 1206 can be configured such that, if the controller 1206 fails to receiveAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 the control signal 1204, the controller 1206 controls the electromechanical actuator 108 to be in the first position, thereby ensuring that, in the event of lost communication with the remote operator, for example, the fire control blocking mechanism defaults to the on state to prevent unwanted discharge of the firearm 100. In some examples, electromechanical actuator 108 (e.g., when implemented using the solenoid motor 908) may be, by default, in the deenergized state, and the control signal 1204 may indicate that power is to be supplied to the electromechanical actuator 108 to drive the electromechanical actuator to release the fire control blocking mechanism. Numerous variations in control of the electromechanical actuator 108 to engage and / or release the fire control blocking mechanism will be apparent in light of the present disclosure. For example, a PWM control signal 1204, or a control signal 1204 of another format / type, may indicate a rotational position of the motor 308 or solenoid motor 908, a translational position of the solenoid motor 908, a power status of the motor 308 or solenoid motor 908, or some other condition of the electromechanical actuator 108 that influences the status (e.g., on / engaged or off / released) of the fire control blocking mechanism.

[0072] As described above, in some examples, the firearm 100 is remote-actuated, and therefore, is configured to be discharged based on a fire / trigger control signal from a remote device. For example, as described above with respect to engaging / releasing the fire control blocking mechanism, a remote operator may control discharge of the firearm 100 via an electronic device (e.g., a computing device). Thus, referring to FIG. 13 A, in some examples, the communication interface 1202 is configured to receive (e.g., over one or more wired or wireless connections) various control signals 1302, which may include the control signal 1204 described above and / or a fire control signal (also referred to as a trigger control signal) 1304. For example, the remote operator may press a button, speak a command, or otherwise interact with a user interface on the electronic device to transmit the control signal 1204 to release the fire control blocking mechanism to prepare the firearm 100 to fire, as described above. The remote operator may then press another button, speak another command, or otherwise interact with the user interface to instruct the firearm 100 to fire.

[0073] In some examples, the communication interface 1202 passes the fire control signal 1304 (optionally formatted, down-converted, or otherwise processed) to the controller 1206, which may in turn provide an electrical trigger control signal 1308 to the trigger motor 118 that controls a remote-actuated trigger mechanism. In such examples, the controller 1206 is a common controller than controls both the electromechanical actuator 108 (to control the blocking mechanism as described above) and the trigger motor 118 (to cause the trigger 114 to be actuated, as described further below). In other examples, the electronics sub-assembly ofAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 the firearm 100 may include a second controller 1306 to control the trigger motor 118. In such examples, the communication interface 1202 passes the fire control signal 1304 (optionally formatted, down-converted, or otherwise processed) to the second controller 1306, which in turn provides the electrical trigger control signal 1308 to the trigger motor 118. In such examples, the communication interface 1202 may include circuitry (e.g., one or more filters, processors, or other circuitry) configured to distinguish and appropriately direct the blocking mechanism control signal 1204 and the trigger control signal 1304. In some examples, the firearm 100 may omit the fire control blocking mechanism and the motor 308. However, in some such examples, the firearm may be remote-actuated and may therefore include the remote-actuated trigger mechanism and the trigger motor 118. Accordingly, in some such examples, the controller 1206 may be omitted. Thus, referring to FIG. 13B, in some examples, the trigger control signal 1304 may be received via the communication interface 1202, which passes the trigger control signal 1304 (optionally formatted, down-converted, or otherwise processed) to the controller 1306 for the trigger motor 118. The controller 1306 may be part of the trigger motor 118 or may be part of the electronics sub-assembly of the firearm 100 and communicatively coupled to the trigger motor 118.

[0074] Referring again to FIG. 1, as described above, in some examples, a remote-actuated trigger mechanism for the firearm 100 includes the cam assembly 116 that is actuated via the trigger motor 118. The trigger motor 118 may be mounted to the mounting bracket 112, as described above. The trigger motor 118 may be (or include) an electric motor (e.g., operable in the manner described above with reference to the motor 308), a solenoid motor (e.g., operable in the manner described above with reference to the solenoid motor 908), or some other electromechanical actuator. The cam assembly 116 is coupled to the trigger motor 118 and configured to engage the trigger 114. In particular, according to certain examples, the cam assembly 116 is configured to rotate to press the trigger 114, causing the firearm 100 to discharge, in response to the fire control signal 1304. After a shot is fired, the cam assembly 116 may be rotated back into its starting / resting position, releasing the trigger 114 and preparing the firearm 100 for the next discharge event. Features and operation of the cam assembly 116 according to certain examples are described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 14A-15B.

[0075] FIG. 14A illustrates a portion of an example of the firearm 100, showing the cam assembly 116 in a first position, also referred to as an “off trigger” position. FIG. 14B illustrates a similar portion of the firearm 100, showing the cam assembly rotated into a second position, also referred to as an “on trigger” position. According to certain examples, the cam assemblyAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1116 includes a cam 1402 and a cam horn 1404. The cam assembly 116 is secured to the trigger motor 118 via one or more fasteners 1406, such as a bolt, screw, or other fastener. As illustrated in FIGS. 14A and 14B, in some examples, the fastener 1406 extends through a central opening in the cam horn 1404, and through a corresponding opening 1502 (FIGS. 15A and 15B) in the cam 1402.

[0076] According to certain examples, the cam horn 1404 is configured to mate or engage with a rotational component of the trigger motor 118, which may include a geared or toothed component. As described above, in some applications, such as those in which the firearm 100 may be mounted on a UAV or carried by another platform, the weight of the firearm 100 may be a significant design consideration. Accordingly, in some examples, the cam 1402 may be made of a light-weight material, such as a plastic or polymer, for example. When the trigger motor 118, and therefore the cam assembly 116, rotates to press the trigger 114, significant torque may be transferred from the rotational component of the trigger motor 118 to the cam assembly 116. Thus, to avoid the teeth of the rotational component of the trigger motor 118 damaging the cam 1402 (particularly where the cam 1402 is made of plastic, for example) the rotational component of the trigger motor 118 is engaged by the cam horn 1404 instead of by the cam 1402 directly. The cam horn 1404 may be made of metal, such as stainless steel or aluminum, for example, such that it can withstand the force applied by the trigger motor 118 without substantial damage. The cam horn 1404 is keyed to, or mated with, the cam 1402, and translates the rotation of the trigger motor 118 to the cam 1402.

[0077] An example of the cam 1402 is illustrated in FIGS. 15A (plan view) and 15B (perspective view). As described above, the cam 1402 includes an opening 1502 to accommodate the fastener 1406 that mounts the cam 1402 to the trigger motor 118. The cam 1402 may further comprise a first recess 1504 that is sized and shaped to accommodate the cam horn 1404. For example, the cam 1402 and the cam horn 1404 may be configured such that the cam horn 1404 fits snugly into the first recess 1504. In some examples, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the cam horn includes a pair of lugs 1408a, 1408b located opposing one another on opposite sides of the cam horn 1404. These lugs 1408a, 1408b prevent, or substantially minimize, rotation of the cam horn 1404 relative to the cam 1402. In addition, the opposing arrangement of the lugs 1408a, 1408b allows the torque from the cam horn 1404 to be fairly evenly transferred to the cam 1402, allowing for smooth rotation of the cam assembly 116 without binding. The first recess 1504 of the cam 1402 thus includes two protrusions 1506a, 1506b, sized, shaped, and arranged to receive the lugs 1408a, 1408b, of the cam horn 1404. In other examples, however, the cam horn 1404 may include more or fewer than two lugs 1408Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 that may be positioned differently than as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B. In such examples, the first recess 1504 of the cam 1402 may include corresponding one or more protrusions 1506 to accommodate the lugs 1408 of the cam horn 1404.

[0078] According to certain examples, the trigger motor 118 is a servo motor that can be rotated between two or more preset positions in the same manner as discussed above with reference to the motor 308. The preset positions may be programmable. For example, the trigger motor 118 can be programmed / configured such that a first position is the off-trigger position of the cam assembly 116 illustrated in FIG. 14A and a second position is the on-trigger position of the cam assembly 116 illustrated in FIG. 14B. However, in other examples, the positioning of one or more components of the cam assembly 116 in the first and second rotational positions of the trigger motor 118 may be different than as shown in FIGS. 14A and / or 14B. As described above, in some examples, the rotational positions of the trigger motor 118 are controlled by a PWM signal (e.g., the trigger control signal(s) 1304 or 1308). For example, the PWM control signal can specify a rotational position of the trigger motor 118. Furthermore, in some examples, the trigger motor 118 has a fail-safe configuration, such that in the absence of the control signal and / or power to the trigger motor 118, the trigger motor defaults to the first position such that the cam assembly 116 is in the off-trigger position. This approach may prevent accidental discharge of the firearm 100 in the event of lost communication with the remote operator or damage to the firearm 100 and / or the platform carrying the firearm 100. In some examples, the trigger motor assembly may be provided with a back-up battery (not illustrated) and configured such that, in the event power to the trigger motor 118 is otherwise lost, the back-up battery may supply power to the trigger motor 118 to cause (e.g., under control of the controller 1206 or 1306) the trigger motor 118 to return to the first position such that the cam assembly 116 is rotated into the off-trigger position.

[0079] According to certain examples, when the cam assembly 116 is in the off-trigger position, the trigger 114 rests in a neutral position. In some examples, in this position, an outer surface 1508 of the cam 1402 is in contact with the trigger 114. However, the cam 1402 may exert no or minimal pressure on the trigger 114 when in the off-trigger position. The trigger 114 may be spring-loaded such that, in the neutral position, it presses lightly against the outer surface 1508 of the cam 1402. In some examples, any pressure exerted by the cam 1402 on the trigger 114 when the cam assembly 116 is in the off-trigger position is significantly lower than an amount of force needed to press the trigger 114 back into a firing position. In other examples, with the cam assembly 116 in the off-trigger position, the cam 1402 may be positioned in close proximity to the trigger 114 though not in contact with the trigger 114.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0080] Referring to FIG. 14B, when the fire control signal 1304 indicates that the firearm 100 is to be discharged, the trigger motor 118 is driven to rotate the cam assembly 116 into the on-trigger position, as indicated by arrow 1410. In some examples, during rotational movement of the cam assembly 116, the outer surface 1508 of the cam 1402 slides along the trigger 114, pressing the trigger 114 backwards until a shot breaks. Thus, an individual cycle of rotation of the trigger motor, and therefore of the cam assembly 116, from the off-trigger position to the on-trigger position causes the cam 1402 to continually press against the trigger 114 and push the trigger successively backwards until the shot breaks. To continue to press the trigger 114 backwards in a smooth, consistent manner as the cam 1402 rotates (e.g., during a cycle of rotation), the outer surface 1508 of the cam 1402 may have a varying radius of curvature. For example, referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B, the outer surface 1508 may have a first radius of curvature in a first region 1510a and a second radius of curvature in a second region 1510b. The first region 1510a may contact the trigger 114 during a first time period (e.g., an earlier part) of the rotation cycle of the trigger motor 118 from the off-trigger position to the on-trigger position. The second region 1510b may contact the trigger during a second time period (e.g., a later part) of the rotation cycle. The radii of curvature can be selected, and the outer surface 1508 configured, such that there is a smooth transition in the outer surface 1508 between the first region 1510a and the second region 1510b. The radii of curvature in the first region 1510a and the second region 1510b, respectively, can be selected based on various factors, such as the size of the cam 1402, the range of motion of the trigger 114 from the resting / neutral position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 14A) to the point at which a shot breaks, the relative positioning of the cam 1402 and the trigger 114, among others, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0081] As described above, in some examples, the cam 1402 is made of a plastic or polymer material. In some such examples, the cam 1402 may be additively manufactured (e.g., using a 3D printer or other additive manufacturing apparatus). Forming the cam 1402 by additive manufacturing may allow the shape and surface features of the cam 1402 to be precisely controlled and tailored to particular arrangements of the firearm 100.

[0082] In some examples, the cam assembly 116 is arranged such that, at a position corresponding to the nominal shot break-point (e.g., the position of the cam assembly 116 and the trigger 114 at which, nominally, the sear 202 should disengage from the hammer 206 (or striker) and the firearm 100 should discharge), the cam assembly 116 is oriented with respect to the trigger motor 118 such that no (or minimal) moment is applied on the trigger motor 118. In some examples, the trigger motor 118 is configured such that the second rotational positionAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 is slightly past the nominal shot break-point. That is, the trigger motor 118 may be slightly over-rotated past the point at which the trigger is pressed sufficiently by the cam 1402 to cause a shot to break. This arrangement may ensure that the firearm 100 discharges when a command to fire is received, without exerting unnecessary torque on the trigger motor 118 by attempting to rotate it significantly past the shot break-point. As described above, in some examples, the second rotational position of the trigger motor 118 is pre-programmed, for example, based on a known geometry of the firearm 100. In some examples, the firearm 100 includes a mechanical hard stop (not shown) positioned behind the trigger 114 to prevent the trigger from being pushed backwards by more than a certain amount. In some such examples, the trigger motor 118 may receive a force feedback signal indicating when the trigger 114 has contacted the hard stop (e.g., the resistance to further rotation of the cam assembly 116, and therefore of the trigger motor 118, exceeds a certain threshold), and may stop rotating based on that force feedback signal.

[0083] In some examples, after the trigger motor 118 reaches the second position, the trigger motor 118 can be retained in that position until a further control signal is received, or until the fire control signal 1304 is modified (e.g., the PWM is changed) to indicate that the trigger motor 118 should return to the first position. In such examples, after a shot is fired, the trigger 114 may be retained in the pressed position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 14B) until released by rotation of the cam assembly back into the off-trigger position. According to some examples, the firearm 100 includes a fire control blocking mechanism that is configured to prevent further discharge of the firearm 100 even though the trigger 114 is pinned in the pressed position. For example, as described above, in certain examples, the blocking component 210 and the hammer 206 can be configured such that, if the fire control blocking mechanism is engaged while the trigger 114 is pinned in the pressed position, the blocking component 210 engages the hammer 206 at the region 804, thus preventing the hammer 206 from rotating again and preventing discharge of the firearm 100. In other examples, the trigger motor 118 can be configured to rotate back to the first position immediately after (or following a short waiting period after) reaching the second position. In such examples, the trigger 114 may be automatically returned to the neutral position after a shot is fired, until the trigger control signal 1304 indicates that the next discharge event is to occur.

[0084] As described above, in some examples, it may be desirable to reduce the weight of the firearm 100. Furthermore, it may be desirable to reduce the weight of the cam 1402 to reduce rotational inertia of the cam 1402. This reduction makes the cam 1402 less likely to rotate in the event that the firearm 100, or vehicle or other platform (e.g., UAV) on which theAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 firearm 100 is carried, experiences a sudden acceleration / decel eration, such as in the event of a crash. Accordingly, as described above, the cam 1402 may be made of plastic or another lightweight material. In addition, in some examples, to further reduce the weight of the cam 1402, the cam 1402 includes a second recess 1512. The presence of this second recess 1512 reduces the amount of material used for the cam 1402, and therefore, reduces the weight of the cam 1402. In some examples, the cam 1402 may further include an indentation 1514 in a region of the cam 1402 where, in either the on-trigger or off-trigger positions of the cam assembly 116, it is not necessary for the outer surface 1508 to contact the trigger 114. The presence of this indentation 1514 may further reduce the amount of material used for the cam 1402, and therefore, reduce the weight of the cam 1402. It will be appreciated, given the benefit of this disclosure, that the shape of the cam 1402 and / or of the second recess 1512 and / or the indentation 1514 may vary, and examples of the cam 1402 are not intended to be limited to the shape shown in FIGS. 14A-15B. In addition, to further reduce the potential of unwanted movement of components of the fire control assembly in the event of sudden inertial changes, for example, the weight of the trigger 114 may be reduced (e.g., by making the trigger 114 out of a lightweight material and / or including one or more recesses or other structural features to reduce the material used for the trigger 114) to reduce the mass / momentum associated with the trigger 114.

[0085] Thus, examples provide a remote-actuated trigger mechanism that may allow a remote operator to reliably discharge the firearm 100 on command by transmitting the fire / trigger control signal 1304. Until receipt of the command to fire, the trigger mechanism may remain in an off state (e.g., the cam assembly 116 in the off-trigger position) in which minimal (if any) force is applied to the trigger 114 and risk of accidental discharge is low. Furthermore, in certain examples, the firearm 100 may include a fire control blocking mechanism, as described above, that further reduces risk of accidental discharge of the firearm 100.

[0086] As will be appreciated in light of this disclosure, examples of the fire control blocking mechanism and / or trigger mechanism described herein are not limited to use with hammer- fired handgun-style firearms (such as the example illustrated in FIG. 1) and may be utilized with striker-fired handguns (e.g., firearm 100 A or variations thereof) and other host firearms, including long guns, short-barreled rifles, and machine guns as will be apparent in light of this disclosure.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1Further Examples

[0087] The following examples pertain to embodiments of the technology disclosed herein, from which numerous permutations and configurations will be apparent.

[0088] Example l is a motor-actuated fire control blocking mechanism for a firearm (e.g., a remote-actuated firearm) that restricts movement of the sear and / or energized component (e.g., hammer or striker) of the fire control assembly of the firearm. The firearm may be, for example, a handgun, such as a semi-automatic handgun, rifle, or other host firearm. The motor may be an electric motor or a solenoid motor, for example.

[0089] Example 2 is a fire control blocking assembly for a remote-actuated firearm, comprising a blocking device repeatably movable between a first (blocking) position and a second (non-blocking) position based on a control signal from a remote device, the blocking device configured to engage, in the first position, at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm to restrict movement of the at least one component of the fire control assembly.

[0090] Example 3 is a fire control blocking assembly for a remote-actuated firearm. The fire control blocking assembly comprises a blocking device repeatably movable between a blocking position and a non-blocking position, the blocking device configured, when in the blocking position, to restrict movement of at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm; and an electromechanical actuator coupled to the blocking device and configured to cause, based on a control signal from a remote device, the blocking device to move from the blocking position into the non-blocking position.

[0091] Example 4 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 3, wherein the blocking device comprises a blocking component and an actuation bar. The blocking component translates between the blocking position and the non-blocking position, and is configured to, in the blocking position, restrict the movement of the at least one component of the fire control assembly. The actuation bar is coupled to the electromechanical actuator and configured to engage the blocking component. The electromechanical actuator is configured to rotate the actuation bar to cause the actuation bar to move the blocking component from the blocking position to the non-blocking position.

[0092] Example 5 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 4 and further comprises a compression spring configured to bias the blocking component into the blocking position.

[0093] Example 6 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 5, wherein the blocking component is positioned about an axel coupled to a frame of the firearm, the blockingAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 component being configured to translate along the axel between the blocking position and the non-blocking position, and wherein the compression spring is mounted on the axel.

[0094] Example 7 includes the fire control blocking assembly of any one of Examples 4-6, wherein the actuation bar comprises a body portion and an arm extending outwardly from the body portion, the arm being arranged to contact the blocking component, and wherein an axis of rotation of the actuation bar extends through the body portion of the actuation bar.

[0095] Example 8 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 7, wherein the arm comprises a pair of prongs spaced apart from one another, the pair of prongs configured to contact the blocking component at two spaced-apart locations on a same surface of the blocking component.

[0096] Example 9 includes the fire control blocking assembly of any one of Examples 4-8, wherein the firearm is a hammer-fired firearm, wherein the at least one component of the fire control assembly of the firearm includes a hammer, and wherein the blocking component, when in the blocking position, is arranged to restrict rotation of the hammer.

[0097] Example 10 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 9, wherein the hammer comprises a first region and a second region, the second region being recessed relative to the first region. The blocking component is arranged to, in the blocking position, contact the first region of the hammer to restrict the rotation of the hammer. The second region of the hammer is configured to allow the hammer to rotate past the blocking component when the blocking component is in the non-blocking position.

[0098] Example 11 includes the fire control blocking assembly of any one of Examples 3- 10, wherein the at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm includes a sear, and wherein the blocking device restricts movement of the sear directly or indirectly when in the blocking position.

[0099] Example 12 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 11, further comprising a sear extension coupled to the sear and extending from the sear towards the blocking device, the sear extension being configured to rotate about an axis of rotation of the sear, wherein the blocking device is configured to, in the blocking position, engage the sear extension to restrict rotation of the sear.

[0100] Example 13 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 12, wherein the sear extension is made of metal.

[0101] Example 14 includes the fire control blocking assembly of any one of Examples 3- 13, wherein the electromechanical actuator includes an electric motor.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0102] Example 15 includes the fire control blocking assembly of any one of Examples 3- 13, wherein the electromechanical actuator includes a solenoid motor.

[0103] Example 16 is a handgun comprising the fire control blocking assembly of any one of Examples 1-15, wherein the firearm is the handgun.

[0104] Example 17 includes the subject matter of Example 16, wherein the handgun is a semiautomatic handgun.

[0105] Example 18 is a fire control blocking assembly for a firearm. The fire control blocking assembly comprises: an electric motor configured to rotate between a first position and a second position based on a control signal; a blocking component movable along an axel between a blocking position and a non-blocking position, the blocking component configured to, in the blocking position, restrict movement of at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm; a compression spring positioned on the axel and configured to bias the blocking component in the blocking position when the electric motor is in the first position; and an actuation bar coupled to the electric motor and configured to rotate with the electric motor, the actuation bar configured to engage the blocking component and to retain the blocking component in the non-blocking position when the electric motor is in the second position.

[0106] Example 19 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 18, and further comprises a sear extension coupled to a sear of the firearm and configured to rotate about an axis of rotation of the sear, wherein the blocking component, in the blocking position, is configured to prevent lifting of the sear extension to restrict rotation of the sear.

[0107] Example 20 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 19, wherein the sear extension is made of metal.

[0108] Example 21 includes the fire control blocking assembly of any one of Examples 18- 20, wherein the firearm is a hammer-fired firearm, and wherein the at least one component of the fire control assembly includes a hammer.

[0109] Example 22 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 21, wherein the blocking component, in the blocking position, is configured to restrict rotation of the hammer.

[0110] Example 23 includes the fire control blocking assembly of any one of Examples 18- 22, wherein the actuation bar comprises a body portion and an arm extending outwardly from the body portion to contact the blocking component.

[0111] Example 24 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 23, wherein the arm of the actuation bar comprises a pair of prongs spaced apart from one another and arranged to contact the blocking component on either side of the axel.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0112] Example 25 includes the fire control assembly of any one of Examples 18-24, wherein the blocking component is made of metal.

[0113] Example 26 is a handgun comprising the fire control blocking assembly of any one of Examples 18-25, wherein the firearm is the handgun.

[0114] Example 27 includes the subject matter of Example 26, wherein the handgun is a semiautomatic handgun.

[0115] Example 28 is a firearm frame assembly comprising: a frame extending along a bore axis; and a fire control assembly attached to the frame, the fire control assembly including a trigger, a hammer, and a sear operable between a first sear position and a second sear position, wherein the sear is configured to, in the first sear position, engage and retain the hammer in a cocked position until the sear disengages from the hammer and moves into the second sear position in response to the trigger being pressed. The firearm frame assembly further comprises a blocking component configured to translate along an axel of the frame between a blocking position and a non-blocking position, the blocking component arranged to, in the blocking position, prevent movement of the sear from the first sear position into the second sear position; and an actuation bar arranged to engage the blocking component, the actuation bar configured to rotate in response to a control signal to move the blocking component from the blocking position into the non-blocking position to release the sear thereby allowing the sear to move into the second sear position in response to the trigger being pressed.

[0116] Example 29 includes the firearm frame assembly of Example 28, further comprising a compression spring positioned on the axel and configured to bias the blocking component in the blocking position.

[0117] Example 30 includes the firearm frame assembly of one of Examples 28 or 97, wherein the blocking component is made of metal.

[0118] Example 31 includes the firearm frame assembly of any one of Examples 28-30, further comprising a sear extension coupled to the sear and configured to rotate with the sear about an axis of rotation of the sear when the sear moves between the first sear position and the second sear position; wherein, in the blocking position, the blocking component engages the sear extension to prevent the movement of the sear from the first sear position into the second sear position; and wherein, in the non-blocking position, the blocking component is disengaged from the sear extension.

[0119] Example 32 includes the firearm frame assembly of Example 31, wherein the sear extension is made of metal.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0120] Example 33 includes the firearm frame assembly of one of Examples 31 or 32, wherein the actuation bar comprises a body portion and a first arm extending outwardly from the body portion to contact the blocking component, the first arm comprising a pair of prongs spaced apart from one another and configured to contact the blocking component on either side of the axel.

[0121] Example 34 includes the firearm frame assembly of Example 33, wherein the frame comprises first and second frame sidewalls; wherein the actuation bar comprises second and third arms extending outwardly from the body portion and spaced apart from one another and from the first arm; and wherein the actuation bar is configured to rotate between a first stop position in which the second arm contacts the first frame sidewall and the blocking component is in the blocking position and a second stop position in which the third arm contacts the second frame sidewall and the blocking component in the non-blocking position.

[0122] Example 35 includes the firearm frame assembly of one of Examples 33 or 34, wherein the actuation bar is arranged such that, in the second stop position, the axel extends between the pair of prongs.

[0123] Example 36 includes the firearm frame assembly of any one of Examples 28-35, wherein the hammer comprises a first region and a shelf, the shelf being recessed relative to the first region; wherein, in the blocking position, the blocking component engages the first region of the hammer to retain the hammer in the cocked position independent of movement of the sear; and wherein, in the non-blocking position, the blocking component is positioned proximate the shelf of the hammer, the shelf being configured to accommodate the blocking component such that the blocking component is disengaged from the hammer.

[0124] Example 37 includes the firearm frame assembly of any one of Examples 28-36, further comprising an electric motor mounted to the frame and coupled to the actuation bar, the electric motor being configured to cause the actuation bar to rotate in response to the control signal.

[0125] Example 38 includes the firearm frame assembly of Example 37, wherein the electric motor is a servo motor.

[0126] Example 39 includes the firearm frame assembly of any one of Examples 28-37, further comprising a communication interface configured to detect the control signal.

[0127] Example 40 includes the firearm frame assembly of any one of Examples 28-39, further comprising a manual override lever operable between a first lever position and a second lever position, wherein movement of the manual override level from the first lever position toAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 the second lever position moves the blocking component from the blocking position into the non-blocking position.

[0128] Example 41 is a firearm comprising the firearm frame assembly.

[0129] Example 42 includes the firearm of Example 41, wherein the firearm is a remote- actuated firearm.

[0130] Example 43 is a fire control blocking assembly for a firearm, comprising: an electromechanical actuator configured to move (e.g., rotate or translate) between a first position and a second position based on a control signal; a blocking component coupled to the electromechanical actuator and movable along an axel between a blocking position and a nonblocking position, the blocking component configured to, in the blocking position, restrict (directly or indirectly) movement of at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm; and a compression spring positioned on the axel and configured to bias the blocking component in the blocking position when the electromechanical actuator is in the first position.

[0131] Example 44 includes the fire control blocking assembly of Example 43, wherein the at least one component of the fire control assembly includes a sear.

[0132] Example 45 is an electric motor actuated trigger cam mechanism.

[0133] Example 46 is a remote-actuated trigger assembly for a firearm, comprising: a trigger; an electric motor configured to rotate between a first position and a second position based on a control signal that specifies a motor position; and a cam assembly coupled to the electric motor and configured to rotate with the electric motor, wherein rotation of the electric motor from the first position to the second position causes the cam assembly to press the trigger to discharge the firearm.

[0134] Example 47 is a device for remotely actuating a trigger of a firearm, the device comprising an electric motor configured to rotate between a first position and a second position based on a control signal that specifies a motor position, and a cam assembly coupled to the electric motor and configured to rotate with the electric motor, wherein rotation of the electric motor from the first position to the second position causes the cam assembly to actuate the trigger of the firearm.

[0135] Example 48 includes the device of Example 47, wherein the cam assembly comprises a cam horn coupled to the electric motor, and a cam coupled to the cam horn and configured to engage the trigger.

[0136] Example 49 includes the device of Example 48, wherein the cam horn is made of metal, and the cam is made of plastic.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0137] Example 50 includes the device of one of Examples 48 or 49, wherein the cam comprises an outer surface configured to slide along the trigger as the cam rotates with rotation of the electric motor, the outer surface having a varying radius of curvature.

[0138] Example 51 includes the device of Example 50, wherein the outer surface of the cam has a first radius of curvature in a first region that contacts the trigger during a first time period of a rotation cycle of the electric motor from the first position to the second position, and a second radius of curvature in a second region that contacts the trigger during a second time period of the rotation cycle of the electric motor, the second time period following the first time period in the rotation cycle.

[0139] Example 52 includes the device of any one of Examples 47-51, further comprising a communication interface configured to detect the control signal from a remote device.

[0140] Example 53 includes the device of Example 52, further comprising a motor controller coupled to the communication interface and to the electric motor, the motor controller configured to control the electric motor to rotate to the second position based on the control signal including a command to discharge the firearm.

[0141] Example 54 includes the device of any one of Examples 47-53, wherein the motor is a servo motor.

[0142] Example 55 includes the device of Example 54, wherein the control signal is a pulse width modulation signal.

[0143] Example 56 includes the device of any one of Examples 47-55, wherein the electric motor is configured to automatically return to the first position after reaching the second position, or wherein the control signal is configured to control the electric motor to return to the first position after reaching the second position.

[0144] Example 57 includes the device of any one of Examples 47-56, further comprising the trigger.

[0145] Example 58 is a fire control assembly for a remote-actuated firearm, comprising: a trigger movable between a resting position and a firing position; and a cam assembly configured to rotate about an axis of rotation based on a control signal from a remote device, the cam assembly including a cam having a surface in contact with the trigger, wherein rotation of the cam assembly in a first direction about the axis of rotation causes the surface of the cam to press against the trigger to move the trigger from the resting position to the firing position.

[0146] Example 59 includes the fire control assembly of Example 58, further comprising an electromechanical actuator coupled to the cam assembly and configured to cause rotation ofAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 the cam assembly between a first position in which the trigger is in the resting position and a second position in which the cam presses the trigger into the firing position.

[0147] Example 60 includes the fire control assembly of Example 59, wherein the electromechanical actuator includes an electric motor configured to rotate between a first motor position and a second motor position based on the control signal, wherein rotation of the electric motor from the first motor position to the second motor position causes the rotation of the cam assembly in the first direction, and wherein the cam is configured to retain the trigger in the firing position when the electric motor is in the second motor position.

[0148] Example 61 includes the fire control assembly of one of Examples 59 or 60, wherein the cam assembly includes a cam horn coupled to the electromechanical actuator and to the cam.

[0149] Example 62 includes the fire control assembly of Example 61, wherein the cam horn is made of metal, and wherein the cam is made of plastic.

[0150] Example 63 includes the fire control assembly of any one of Examples 60-62, further comprising a communication interface configured to detect the control signal from the remote device.

[0151] Example 64 includes the fire control assembly of Example 63, further comprising a motor controller coupled to the communication interface and to the electric motor, the motor controller configured to control the electric motor to rotate to the second position based on the control signal including a command to discharge the firearm.

[0152] Example 65 includes the fire control assembly of any one of Examples 60-64, wherein the motor is a servo motor and wherein the control signal is a pulse width modulation signal.

[0153] Example 66 includes the fire control assembly of any one of Examples 60-65, wherein the electric motor is configured to automatically return to the first position after reaching the second position, or wherein the control signal is configured to control the electric motor to return to the second position after reaching the second position.

[0154] Example 67 includes the fire control assembly of any one of Examples 58-66, wherein the surface of the cam has a varying radius of curvature.

[0155] Example 68 includes the fire control assembly of Example 67, wherein the surface of the cam has a first radius of curvature in a first region that contacts the trigger during a first time period of a rotation cycle of the cam assembly in the first direction, and a second radius of curvature in a second region that contacts the trigger during a second time period of the rotation cycle of the cam assembly, the second time period following the first time period in the rotation cycle.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0156] Example 69 is a firearm frame assembly comprising: a frame extending along a bore axis; and a fire control assembly attached to the frame. The fire control assembly includes a trigger, a hammer, a sear operable between a first sear position and a second sear position, wherein the sear is configured to, in the first sear position, engage and retain the hammer in a cocked position until the sear disengages from the hammer and moves into the second sear position in response to the trigger being pressed, and a cam configured to rotate to press the trigger based on a control signal from a remote device.

[0157] Example 70 includes the firearm frame assembly of Example 69, wherein the fire control assembly further includes an electromechanical actuator coupled to the cam and configured to cause the cam to rotate in response to the control signal.

[0158] Example 71 includes the firearm frame assembly of Example 70, wherein the fire control assembly further includes a cam horn configured to couple the cam to the electromechanical actuator.

[0159] Example 72 includes the firearm frame assembly of Example 71, wherein the cam horn is made of metal, and the cam is made of plastic.

[0160] Example 73 includes the firearm frame assembly of any one of Examples 69-72, wherein the cam has an outer surface configured to engage the trigger, wherein the outer surface has a varying radius of curvature.

[0161] Example 74 includes the firearm frame assembly of any one of Examples 69-73, wherein the control signal is a pulse width modulation signal.

[0162] Example 75 is a fire control assembly for a firearm, comprising a trigger movable between a resting position and a firing position, and a cam configured to rotate to press the trigger into the firing position based on a control signal from a remote device.

[0163] Example 76 includes the fire control assembly of Example 75, further comprising an electromechanical actuator coupled to the cam and configured to cause the cam to rotate in response to the control signal.

[0164] Example 77 includes the fire control assembly of Example 76, further comprising a cam horn configured to couple the cam to the electromechanical actuator.

[0165] Example 78 includes the fire control assembly of any one of Examples 75-77, wherein the cam has an outer surface that engages the trigger, the output surface having a varying radius of curvature.

[0166] Example 79 includes the fire control assembly of any one of Examples 75-78, wherein the electromechanical actuator includes an electric servo motor.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0167] Example 80 is a fire control assembly for a remote-actuated firearm, comprising: an electric motor configured to rotate between a first position and a second position based on a control signal from a remote device; and a cam assembly coupled to the electric motor and configured to rotate about an axis of rotation, the cam assembly including a cam having a surface configured to actuate a trigger of the remote-actuated firearm; wherein rotation of the electric motor from the first position to the second position causes rotation of the cam assembly in a first direction about the axis of rotation, thereby causing the surface of the cam to press against the trigger to move the trigger from a resting position to a firing position.

[0168] Example 81 includes the fire control assembly of Example 80, further comprising the trigger, wherein the cam is configured to retain the trigger in the firing position when the electric motor is in the second position.

[0169] Example 82 includes the fire control assembly of one of Examples 80 or 81, wherein the surface of the cam has a varying radius of curvature.

[0170] Example 83 includes the fire control assembly of Example 82, wherein the surface of the cam has a first radius of curvature in a first region that contacts the trigger during a first time period of a rotation cycle of the cam assembly in the first direction, and a second radius of curvature in a second region that contacts the trigger during a second time period of the rotation cycle of the cam assembly, the second time period following the first time period in the rotation cycle.

[0171] Example 84 includes the fire control assembly of any of Examples 80-83, wherein the cam assembly includes a cam horn coupled to the electric motor and to the cam.

[0172] Example 85 includes the fire control assembly of Example 84, wherein the cam horn is made of metal, and wherein the cam is made of plastic.

[0173] Example 86 includes the fire control assembly of any one of Examples 80-85, further comprising a communication interface configured to detect the control signal from the remote device.

[0174] Example 87 includes the fire control assembly of Example 86, further comprising a motor controller coupled to the communication interface and to the electric motor, the motor controller configured to control the electric motor to rotate to the second position based on the control signal including a command to discharge the firearm.

[0175] Example 88 includes the fire control assembly of any one of Examples 80-87, wherein the electric motor is a servo motor, and wherein the control signal is a pulse width modulation signal.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1

[0176] Example 89 includes the fire control assembly of any one of Examples 80-88, wherein the electric motor is configured to automatically return to the first position after reaching the second position, or wherein the control signal is configured to control the electric motor to return to the first position after reaching the second position.

[0177] Example 90 is a firearm frame assembly comprising a frame extending along a bore axis, and a fire control assembly attached to the frame. The fire control assembly includes a trigger, a hammer, a sear operable between a first sear position and a second sear position, wherein the sear is configured to, in the first sear position, engage and retain the hammer in a cocked position until the sear disengages from the hammer and moves into the second sear position in response to the trigger being pressed, and a cam configured to rotate to press the trigger based on a control signal from a remote device.

[0178] Example 91 includes the firearm frame assembly of Example 90, further comprising an electromechanical actuator coupled to the cam and configured to cause rotation of the cam based on the control signal.

[0179] Example 92 is a firearm including the subject matter of any one of Examples 45-91.

[0180] Example 93 includes the subject matter of Example 92, wherein the firearm is a semiautomatic handgun.

[0181] Example 94 includes the subject matter of any one of Examples 45-93 in combination with the subject matter of any one of Examples 1-44.

[0182] The foregoing description of examples and aspects thereof has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of this disclosure. It is intended that the scope of the present disclosure be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by the claims appended hereto. Future-filed applications claiming priority to this application may claim the disclosed subject matter in a different manner and generally may include any set of one or more limitations as variously disclosed or otherwise demonstrated herein.

Claims

Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1CLAIMS1. A fire control blocking assembly for a remote-actuated firearm, comprising a blocking device repeatably movable between a blocking position and a non-blocking position, the blocking device configured, when in the blocking position, to restrict movement of at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm; and an electromechanical actuator coupled to the blocking device and configured to cause, based on a control signal from a remote device, the blocking device to move from the blocking position into the non-blocking position.

2. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 1, wherein the blocking device comprises: a blocking component that translates between the blocking position and the nonblocking position, the blocking component configured to, in the blocking position, restrict the movement of the at least one component of the fire control assembly; and an actuation bar coupled to the electromechanical actuator and configured to engage the blocking component; wherein the electromechanical actuator is configured to rotate the actuation bar to cause the actuation bar to move the blocking component from the blocking position to the nonblocking position.

3. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 2, further comprising: a compression spring configured to bias the blocking component into the blocking position.

4. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 2, wherein the actuation bar comprises a body portion and an arm extending outwardly from the body portion, the arm being arranged to contact the blocking component; and wherein an axis of rotation of the actuation bar extends through the body portion of the actuation bar.

5. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 4, wherein the arm comprises a pair of prongs spaced apart from one another, the pair of prongs configured to contact the blocking component at two spaced-apart locations on a same surface of the blocking component.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU16. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 2, wherein the firearm is a hammer-fired firearm; wherein the at least one component of the fire control assembly of the firearm includes a hammer; and wherein the blocking component, when in the blocking position, is arranged to restrict rotation of the hammer.

7. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm includes a sear, and wherein the blocking device restricts movement of the sear directly or indirectly when in the blocking position.

8. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 7, further comprising: a sear extension coupled to the sear and extending from the sear towards the blocking device, the sear extension being configured to rotate about an axis of rotation of the sear; wherein the blocking device is configured to, in the blocking position, engage the sear extension to restrict rotation of the sear.

9. A fire control blocking assembly for a firearm, comprising: an electric motor configured to rotate between a first position and a second position based on a control signal; a blocking component movable along an axel between a blocking position and a nonblocking position, the blocking component configured to, in the blocking position, restrict movement of at least one component of a fire control assembly of the firearm; a compression spring positioned on the axel and configured to bias the blocking component in the blocking position when the electric motor is in the first position; and an actuation bar coupled to the electric motor and configured to rotate with the electric motor, the actuation bar configured to engage the blocking component and to retain the blocking component in the non-blocking position when the electric motor is in the second position.

10. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 9, further comprising: a sear extension coupled to a sear of the firearm and configured to rotate about an axis of rotation of the sear; wherein the blocking component, in the blocking position, is configured to preventAtty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU1 lifting of the sear extension to restrict rotation of the sear.

11. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 10, wherein the firearm is a hammer-fired firearm, and wherein the at least one component of the fire control assembly includes a hammer.

12. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 11, wherein the blocking component, in the blocking position, is configured to restrict rotation of the hammer.

13. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 9, wherein the actuation bar comprises a body portion and an arm extending outwardly from the body portion to contact the blocking component.

14. The fire control blocking assembly of claim 13, wherein the arm of the actuation bar comprises a pair of prongs spaced apart from one another and arranged to contact the blocking component on either side of the axel.

15. A firearm frame assembly comprising: a frame extending along a bore axis; a fire control assembly attached to the frame, the fire control assembly including a trigger, a hammer, and a sear operable between a first sear position and a second sear position, wherein the sear is configured to, in the first sear position, engage and retain the hammer in a cocked position until the sear disengages from the hammer and moves into the second sear position in response to the trigger being pressed; a blocking component configured to translate along an axel of the frame between a blocking position and a non-blocking position, the blocking component arranged to, in the blocking position, prevent movement of the sear from the first sear position into the second sear position; and an actuation bar arranged to engage the blocking component, the actuation bar configured to rotate in response to a control signal to move the blocking component from the blocking position into the non-blocking position to release the sear thereby allowing the sear to move into the second sear position in response to the trigger being pressed.Atty. Docket No.: SIG00129WOU116. The firearm frame assembly of claim 15, further comprising: a compression spring positioned on the axel and configured to bias the blocking component in the blocking position.

17. The firearm frame assembly of claim 16, further comprising: a sear extension coupled to the sear and configured to rotate with the sear about an axis of rotation of the sear when the sear moves between the first sear position and the second sear position; wherein, in the blocking position, the blocking component engages the sear extension to prevent the movement of the sear from the first sear position into the second sear position; and wherein, in the non-blocking position, the blocking component is disengaged from the sear extension.

18. The firearm frame assembly of claim 17, wherein the actuation bar comprises a body portion and a first arm extending outwardly from the body portion to contact the blocking component, the first arm comprising a pair of prongs spaced apart from one another and configured to contact the blocking component on either side of the axel.

19. The firearm frame assembly of claim 15, wherein the hammer comprises a first region and a shelf, the shelf being recessed relative to the first region; wherein, in the blocking position, the blocking component engages the first region of the hammer to retain the hammer in the cocked position independent of movement of the sear; and wherein, in the non-blocking position, the blocking component is positioned proximate the shelf of the hammer, the shelf being configured to accommodate the blocking component such that the blocking component is disengaged from the hammer.

20. The firearm frame assembly of claim 15, further comprising: an electric motor mounted to the frame and coupled to the actuation bar, the electric motor being configured to cause the actuation bar to rotate in response to the control signal.

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