Projectile Launcher Cartridge Handler and Feeder Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current projectile launchers using compressed gas for non-lethal projectiles face challenges in efficient gas utilization and projectile loading, leading to potential misfires and reduced accuracy due to false-loading and wedging issues.
Innovation Solution
A projectile launcher design incorporating a cartridge handler for selective gas supply, a rifled and ported barrel for spin and propulsion, and a projectile feeder mechanism to minimize false-loading, along with a tank mount for compressed gas storage and a valve actuator for controlled gas release, ensuring reliable and accurate projectile launch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If compressed gas is used to propel projectiles, then projectile launch capability is achieved, but gas utilization efficiency deteriorates leading to misfires
Solution Approach 1:
The compressed gas cartridge is pre-loaded into the receiver and sealed before firing. The cartridge handler punctures the cartridge only when needed, and the compressed gas is channeled through a valve mechanism to the barrel. This preliminary preparation and controlled release ensures that compressed gas is utilized efficiently only when a projectile is actually fired, preventing waste and misfires.
2Reliability
If projectiles are loaded into the barrel, then firing capability is achieved, but false-loading and wedging occur reducing accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
A projectile feeder mechanism acts as an intermediary between the projectile magazine and the barrel. This feeder includes guide channels and positioning features that ensure projectiles are fed correctly into the barrel chamber, preventing false-loading (where projectiles are not properly seated) and wedging (where projectiles jam in the breech). The feeder mechanism mediates the loading process to ensure reliable and accurate projectile placement.
3Reliability
If a simple gas supply system is used, then device complexity is reduced, but gas supply consistency deteriorates leading to reduced accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The gas supply system incorporates a valve mechanism that dynamically controls the release of compressed gas. The valve can be actuated to open and close gas flow pathways, allowing precise control over when and how much gas is supplied to propel the projectile. This dynamic control ensures consistent gas supply pressure and volume, improving launch accuracy despite the added complexity of the valve system.
Data Source
AI summary
A launcher for propelling projectiles out of a barrel using compressed gas. The receiver includes a grip with an opening for receiving a compressed gas cartridge. In some embodiments, the grip includes a door movable between an open position that allows the compressed gas cartridge to be removed from the opening, a closed position that retains the compressed gas cartridge in the opening, and an activation position where the door cooperates with a gas transfer mechanism to pierce the seal of the compressed gas cartridge to release gas. The door can be closed without piercing the seal, but a greater force can be applied to the door to pierce the seal.