U.S. patent application number 11/339187 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-16 for firearm with rear regulator.
Invention is credited to Joshua Dorsey, Grzegorz Kuczynko.
Application Number | 20060254414 11/339187 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38564104 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060254414 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kuczynko; Grzegorz ; et
al. |
November 16, 2006 |
Firearm with rear regulator
Abstract
An M-4 type firearm is provided. The M-4 type firearm having a
receiver with a bolt carrier movably located therein. A receiver
extension is connected to the receiver with the receiver extension
including a spring loaded bolt carrier buffer movable relative to
the receiver for effecting return of the bolt carrier to a firing
position of the bolt carrier. A regulator is provided on the
receiver extension, for enabling movement of the bolt carrier
buffer relative to the receiver and effecting automatic or
semi-automatic fire when the receiver extension is at least
partially filled with water.
Inventors: |
Kuczynko; Grzegorz;
(Unionville, CT) ; Dorsey; Joshua; (Columbia,
CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PERMAN & GREEN
425 POST ROAD
FAIRFIELD
CT
06824
US
|
Family ID: |
38564104 |
Appl. No.: |
11/339187 |
Filed: |
January 25, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60646875 |
Jan 25, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
89/198 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41A 3/94 20130101; F41A
19/03 20130101; F41A 3/84 20130101; F41A 3/92 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
089/198 |
International
Class: |
F41A 3/78 20060101
F41A003/78 |
Claims
1. An M-4 type firearm comprising: a receiver with a bolt carrier
movably located therein; a receiver extension connected to the
receiver, the receiver extension including a spring loaded bolt
carrier buffer movable relative to the receiver for effecting
return of the bolt carrier to a firing position of the bolt
carrier; and a regulator, on the receiver extension, for enabling
movement of the bolt carrier buffer relative to the receiver and
effecting automatic or semi-automatic fire when the receiver
extension is at least partially filled with water.
2. The M-4 type firearm of claim 1, wherein, the regulator effects
selection of a cycle rate of the bolt carrier between a first cycle
rate and a different second cycle rate.
3. The M-4 type firearm of claim 1, wherein, the regulator is
selectably positionable in different selectable positions each of
which effects a different firing rate of the firearm so that the
firearm has a range of different firing rates, and wherein changing
regulator position between different selectable positions changes
the firing rate.
4. The M-4 type firearm of claim 1, wherein, the regulator is
selectably positionable to a sealed position, and wherein, the
regulator in the sealed position seals an interior of the receiver
extension to an exterior of the receiver extension.
5. The M-4 type firearm of claim 1 further comprising a barrel
coupled to the receiver and an indirect gas operating system
coupled to the barrel, wherein, the indirect gas operating system
cycles the bolt carrier from the firing position into the receiver
extension.
6. The M-4 type firearm of claim 1, wherein, the receiver extension
further comprises an integral stock support.
7. The M-4 type firearm of claim 1, wherein, the regulator
comprises a rotatable selector coupled to the receiver extension,
and wherein, the receiver extension further comprises a passage in
fluid communication with the regulator, and wherein, the regulator
is selectably positionable to effect selection of a firing rate
from a range of different firing rates.
8. An M-4 type firearm comprising: a receiver with a bolt carrier
movably located therein; a receiver extension connected to the
receiver, the receiver extension enclosing a bolt carrier return
spring; and a regulator valve coupled to the receiver extension;
wherein, the bolt carrier return spring effects return of the bolt
carrier to a firing position, and wherein, the regulator valve
regulates a firing rate of the firearm.
9. The M-4 type firearm of claim 8, wherein, the regulator valve
has different selectable settings corresponding to different
selectable automatic firing cycle rates.
10. The M-4 type firearm of claim 8, wherein, the receiver
extension has at least one port interfacing with the regulator
valve, and wherein the regulator valve regulates a fluid flow rate
through the port.
11. The M-4 type firearm of claim 8, further comprising a barrel
coupled to the receiver and an indirect gas operating system
coupled to the barrel, wherein, the indirect gas operating system
cycles the bolt carrier from the firing position into the receiver
extension.
12. The M-4 type firearm of claim 8, wherein, the receiver
extension has a port interfacing with the regulator valve, and
wherein, the regulator valve is selectably positionable from a
first position closing the port to a second position opening the
port.
13. The M-4 type firearm of claim 8, wherein, the regulator valve
is capable of adjustment by an operator to enable the M-4 type
firearm to be fired substantially immediately upon removal from
water.
14. The M-4 type firearm of claim 8, wherein, the regulator valve
has a spring loaded engagement adapted to positively engage hold
the regulator valve in a selectable position relative to the
receiver extension.
15. An M-4 type firearm comprising: a receiver having a bolt
carrier movably located therein; a barrel coupled to the receiver;
a receiver extension connected to the receiver, the receiver
extension having a bolt carrier return spring; an indirect gas
operating system coupled to the barrel; and a cycle rate selector
mounted on the receiver extension; wherein, the indirect gas
operating system and the bolt carrier return spring cooperate to
cycle the bolt carrier in the receiver, and wherein, the cycle rate
selector regulates automatic firing cycle rate of the firearm.
16. The M-4 type firearm of claim 15, wherein, the cycle rate
selector regulates gas flow within the receiver extension, and
wherein, the gas flow results from the cycling bolt carrier.
17. The M-4 type firearm of claim 15, wherein, the receiver
extension has a plurality of ports interfacing with the cycle rate
selector, wherein, the cycle rate selector is selectably
positionable from a first position closing at least on port of the
plurality of ports to a second position opening the at least one
port, and wherein, the cycle rate selector further comprises a
seal, the seal adapted to seal the at least one port when the cycle
rate selector is in the first position.
18. The M-4 type firearm of claim 17, wherein, when in the second
position, the cycle rate selector enables movement of the bolt
carrier effecting automatic or semi-automatic fire when the
receiver extension is at least partially filled with water.
19. The M-4 type firearm of claim 15, wherein, the receiver
extension is of one piece unitary construction, and wherein the
receiver extension further comprises an integral stock support.
20. The M-4 type firearm of claim 15, wherein, the cycle rate
selector comprises a valve having a gasket, the valve being
rotatably coupled to the receiver.
21. The M-4 type firearm of claim 15, wherein, the cycle rate
selector comprises a valve having a port and a gasket, and wherein,
the valve is rotatably coupled to the receiver, and wherein
rotation of the valve variably regulates automatic firing cycle
rate over a range of automatic firing cycle rates.
22. An automatic firearm comprising: a receiver having a bolt
carrier movably located in an interior of the receiver; a receiver
extension connected to the receiver, the receiver extension having
an interior passage through which the interior of the receiver
communicates with an exterior of the firearm; a closure coupled to
the receiver extension, the closure being selectably movable
between opened and closed positions; wherein, the closure in the
closed position is more restrictive on fluid flow through the
interior passage than when the closure is in the opened position.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/646,875 filed Jan. 25, 2005 which is
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein relates to
automatic or semi-automatic firearms and, more particularly, to
automatic and semi-automatic firearms having a rear regulator.
[0004] 2. Brief Description of Related Developments
[0005] The M-4 and M-16 type firearms, along with their commercial
versions, are highly desired and widely distributed, around the
world, among the law enforcement community, hunters and sporting
users, as well as the military and paramilitary. Referring to FIGS.
1-2, there is respectively shown a perspective view of a
conventional M-4 (or commercial A-4 variant) type firearm 1, and an
expanded view of the firearm 1. As seen in FIGS. 1-2, the firearm 1
generally has a lower receiver 2, an upper receiver 4, a barrel 6
and stock 8. The upper receiver 4 is connected to the lower
receiver 2. The barrel 6, which is covered by a handguard 10, is
connected to the upper receiver 4. The upper receiver 4 holds the
bolt carrier 12 that is operated by an operating system 14 powered
by exhaust gases generated during firing of the firearm 1. As seen
in FIG. 2, the lower receiver 2 may have a mounting bracket 2M for
mounting a receiver extension 16. The receiver extension may be
located within the stock and may provide support to the stock. In
conventional M-4 type firearms, the receiver extension 16 is hollow
and provides a housing for the action spring 18 and buffer assembly
20. The buffer assembly 20 is positioned by spring 18 against the
bolt carrier 12, to bias the bolt carrier to its closed position.
Hence, as may be realized, operation of the bolt carrier 12 (i.e.
sliding back) inside the upper receiver under impetus from the
operating system, impinges on the buffer assembly 20 thereby moving
the buffer assembly back inside the receiver extension 16 and
compressing the action spring 18. Conventional M-4 type firearms
cannot be operated immediately after being immersed in water.
However, there is a desire among operators for an M-4 type firearm
capable of being fired substantially upon removal from water
immersion. Further, as seen in FIG. 1, M-4 type firearms are
provided with a safety or fire control selector 22 allowing an
operator to select for example, between "Safe", "Semi" (-automatic)
and "Auto" (-matic) modes of operation. When in the "auto" mode of
operation, the firing rate of conventional M-4 type firearms is not
controllable by the operator. There is a desire for an M-4 type
firearm having a controllable or selectable firing rate when
operated in the "auto" mode. The exemplary embodiment disclosed
herein overcomes, amongst other things, the problems of
conventional M-4 type firearms.
SUMMARY OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0006] In accordance with one exemplary embodiment, an M-4 type
firearm is provided. The M-4 type firearm comprises a receiver with
a bolt carrier movably located therein. A receiver extension is
connected to the receiver with the receiver extension including a
spring loaded bolt carrier buffer movable relative to the receiver
for effecting return of the bolt carrier to a firing position of
the bolt carrier. A regulator is provided on the receiver
extension, for enabling movement of the bolt carrier buffer
relative to the receiver and effecting automatic or semi-automatic
fire when the receiver extension is at least partially filled with
water.
[0007] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment, an M-4 type
firearm is provided. The M-4 type firearm comprises a receiver with
a bolt carrier movably located therein. A receiver extension is
connected to the receiver, the receiver extension enclosing a bolt
return spring. A regulator valve is coupled to the receiver
extension. The bolt return spring effects return of the bolt
carrier to a firing position. The regulator valve regulates a
firing rate of the firearm.
[0008] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment, an M-4 type
firearm is provided. The M-4 type firearm comprises a receiver
having a bolt carrier movably located therein. A barrel is coupled
to the receiver. A receiver extension is connected to the receiver,
the receiver extension having a bolt return spring. An indirect gas
operating system is coupled to the barrel. A cycle rate selector is
coupled to the receiver extension. The indirect gas operating
system cycles the bolt carrier from a firing position into the
receiver extension. The bolt return spring effects return of the
bolt carrier to the firing position. The cycle rate selector
regulates a firing cycle rate of the firearm when in full automatic
mode.
[0009] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment, an
automatic firearm is provided. The automatic firearm comprises a
receiver having a bolt carrier movably located therein. A receiver
extension is connected to the receiver, the receiver extension
having an interior passage through which the interior of the
receiver communicates with the exterior of the firearm. A closure
is coupled to the receiver extension, the closure being selectably
movable between opened and closed position. The closure in the
closed position is more restrictive on fluid flow through the
interior passage than when the closure is in the opened
position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The foregoing aspects and other features of the present
invention are explained in the following description, taken in
connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a firearm in accordance with
the prior art;
[0012] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the prior art
firearm in FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 3 is an elevation view of a firearm incorporating
features of the present invention in accordance with an exemplary
embodiment;
[0014] FIGS. 4A-4B are exploded perspective views of the lower
receiver extension of the firearm in FIG. 3 with the receiver
extension respectively shown in two different configurations;
[0015] FIGS. 5A-5B are partial exploded views of the end of the
lower receiver extension in FIGS. 4A-4B respectively in different
configurations;
[0016] FIGS. 6A-6B are end views of the lower receiver extension
respectively in the different corresponding configurations shown in
FIGS. 4A-4B;
[0017] FIGS. 7A-7C respectively are an end elevation view, a
partial cross-sectional view and partial bottom view of the lower
receiver extension;
[0018] FIGS. 8A-8D respectively are a perspective view and an
elevation view, plan view and cross-sectional view of a regulator
section of the firearm in FIG. 3;
[0019] FIG. 9A is an end view of an alternate embodiment lower
receiver extension; and
[0020] FIG. 9B is an isometric view of an alternate embodiment
regulator.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT(s)
[0021] Referring to FIG. 3, there is shown, a side elevation view
of an automatic firearm 30 capable of automatic or semiautomatic
fire incorporating features in accordance with an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention. Although the exemplary
embodiments will be described with reference to the embodiments
shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the exemplary
embodiments can be embodied in many alternate forms of embodiments.
In addition, any suitable size, shape or type of elements or
materials could be used.
[0022] Firearm 30 is illustrated in FIG. 3 as an M-4 or M-16 type
automatic firearm (or corresponding commercially available variant)
for example purposes, and the present invention is applicable
equally to any other desired type of firearm capable of automatic
or semi-automatic fire. Firearm 30 may have operational features
such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,726,377, 5,760,328, 4,658,702
and 4,433,610, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/836,443,
filed Apr. 30, 2004 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.
No. 60/564,895, filed Apr. 23, 2004, all of which are hereby
incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Firearm 30
incorporates features according to the present invention. The
firearm 30 and its sections described in greater detail below is
merely exemplary, and in alternate embodiments the firearm 30 may
have other sections, portions or systems. Firearm 30 may
incorporate a hand guard 40, a receiver section 42, a barrel 46,
and stock 44. As will be described further below, hand guard 40 may
further incorporate vent holes, ribbing, heat shields or double
heat shields and liners to facilitate cooling of the barrel 46
while keeping hand guard 40 at a temperature sufficient for an
operator. Hand guard 40 may have features such as disclosed in U.S.
Pat. Nos. 4,663,875 and 4,536,982, both of which are hereby
incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Hand guard 40
and receiver section 42 may be configured to support such rails as
a "Piccatiny Rail" configuration as described in Military Standard
1913, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety. The handguard 40 may house a barrel radiator section for
enhanced cooling of the barrel 46 such as for example disclosed in
U.S. provisional application 60/610,703, filed Sep. 17, 2004 and
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The barrel 46 of
firearm 30 may also be provided with an active cooling system for
example as also disclosed in U.S. provisional patent application
60/610,703 incorporated by reference herein.
[0023] As noted before, firearm 30 in this exemplary embodiment is
an M-4 type automatic or semi-automatic firearm. Firearm 30 is
thus, except as otherwise described below generally similar to
firearm 1 shown in FIGS. 1-2 and described before. Hence, features
of firearm 30 similar to features of firearm 1 will not be
described in detail below. The bolt carrier 48 (see FIG. 3) in the
upper receiver 50 of firearm 30 (similar to belt carrier 12 in the
receiver of firearm 1, shown in FIG. 2) may be cycled by a suitable
operating system. The operating system may be a direct gas
operating system similar to operating system 14 shown in FIG. 2. In
the exemplary embodiment, the operating systeM-480 (for cycling the
bolt carrier 48) of firearm 30 may be an indirect gas operating
system, a suitable example of which is disclosed in U.S.
Provisional Application 60/610,703 previously incorporated by
reference. The firearm 30 also has an action spring and buffer
assembly similar to action spring 18 and buffer assembly 20 in FIG.
2, for motivating the return stroke of the bolt carrier 48 during
its cycle. The action spring and buffer assembly of firearm 30 are
housed (similar to spring and buffed assembly 18, 20 in FIG. 2)
within the lower receiver rear extension 50. The lower receiver
rear extension 50 of firearm 30, in the exemplary embodiment, has a
regulator 52 capable of adjustment by the operator to enable
firearm 30 to be fired substantially immediately upon removal from
water or other fluid immersion, as well as provide a selectable
firing rate when firearm 30 is operated in the "auto" mode as will
be described in greater detail below.
[0024] Referring now also to FIG. 4A, there is shown an exploded
view of the lower receiver extension 50 and regulator assembly 52.
As seen in FIG. 4A, the receiver extension 50 has a hollow
generally cylindrical shape. In alternate embodiments, the lower
receiver extension may have any other desired shape. The front
portion 50F of the receiver extension may have a suitable interface
for coupling or otherwise interfacing the receiver extension to the
receiver section 42 of firearm 30. For example, the front portion
50F of the receiver extension may incorporate a mechanical
coupling, such as a threaded section similar to the threaded
section at the front of the receiver extension 16 shown in FIG. 2.
In alternate embodiments, the coupling of the receiver extension to
the receiver section may have any other desirable interface. The
receiver extension 50 may have a stock support 50S, as shown in
FIG. 4A. The stock support 50S may provide a mount or attachment
for the stock to the firearm receiver extension, and hence,
facilitates mounting of the stock to the firearm. In this
embodiment, the receiver extension may be a one-piece member of
unitary construction with the integral stock support 50S. In
alternate embodiments, the receiver extension may be an assembly.
In the embodiment shown, the stock support 50S may be an elongated
rail extending longitudinally on a bottom or ventral portion of the
receiver extension. In alternate embodiments, the stock support may
have any other suitable shape and any suitable orientation.
[0025] As seen in FIG. 4A, the receiver extension 50 has an end
plate 54 at the rear portion 50R of the extension tube. The end
plate 54 substantially closes, but does not completely seal the
rear of the extension receiver tube. The end plate 54 defines part
of the regulator or regulator valve 52 as will be described further
below. Referring now also to FIGS. 7A-7C, there is respectively
shown an end elevation, cross-sectional view, and partial bottom
view of the rear portion of the receiver extension. The end plate
54 of the receiver extension 50 is seen best in FIGS. 7A-7B. In
this embodiment, the end plate 54 may be integral to the unitary
construction member forming the receiver extension 50. In alternate
embodiments, the end plate may be a separate member, such as a
separate end cap, that may be a mechanically fastened or otherwise
bonded to the receiver extension tube. As seen in FIGS. 7A-7B, in
this embodiment, the end plate has a port or aperture 62 extending
therethrough. The port 62 in the end plate provides communication
between the interior volume 50I in the receiver extension 50, where
for example the action spring and buffer assembly are housed
similar to spring 18 and buffer 20 in FIG. 2, and the exterior of
the extension receiver. Port 62 in combination with interior volume
50I provide a passage through which the interior of the receiver
communicates with the exterior of the firearm. In the embodiment
shown, there are five ports 62 formed in the end plate 54. In
alternate embodiments, any desired number of ports may be provided.
The ports 62 may be formed by any suitable means, such as drilling
through plate 54. The ports 62 may be of any suitable shape or size
to allow desired level of communication between interior volume 50I
and the exterior, as will be seen below, without adversely
affecting the structural function of the end plate. For example,
ports 62 may have a bore of about 0.125 inch diameter, though as
noted before the ports may have any other suitable size bore. In
alternate embodiments, the ports may have any desired shape and may
not be a constant diameter bore. As seen in FIGS. 7A-7B, the ports
62 may be positioned in the lower portion 54L of the end plate. The
ports 62 may be positioned proximate to the inner surface 501S of
the extension tube as shown in FIG. 7B. In alternate embodiments,
more or fewer ports may be provided in the lower portion of the end
plate, and additional ports may be located in other areas around
the periphery of the end plate. As seen in FIGS. 7A-7B, the end
plate may be shaped/formed or machined to include an annular
counter bore 56 from the rearmost face 54R of the end plate. The
counter bore 56 is sized so that the ports 62 are located within
the counter bore area. The counter bore 56 defines a peripheral rim
54P and a spindle or shaft 58. As seen in FIG. 7A, in this
embodiment, the rim 54P extends substantially continuously around
the perimeter of the counter bore 56, and may be sufficiently high
(and conversely the counter bore may be sufficiently deep) to
provide sufficient overlap with the valve assembly 72 (see FIG. 4A)
of the regulator 52, as will be described below, to prevent
undesired entry of contamination into the receiver extension
interior 50I. Spindle 58 may have a bore 60 formed therein for a
valve assembly mounting fastener (not shown).
[0026] The end plate 54 of the receiver extension is provided with
a spring loaded detent 63 for positive engagement of the regulator
valve assembly 72, in order to hold the valve assembly in a desired
position (see FIG. 7A). In this embodiment, the spring loaded
detent 63 may be located within the rim 54P of the end plate 54. As
seen in FIG. 7B-7C, the spring loaded detent 63 may be located in
bore 64. In this embodiment, the bore 64 housing the spring loaded
detent may be formed through the stock support 50S to penetrate the
inside face of the counter bore rim 54P. In alternate embodiments,
the spring loaded detect may be provided in any other suitable
location in the end plate or valve assembly. In this embodiment,
bore 64 houses ball or pin 66, and a biasing spring (not shown)
that biases the ball or pin 66 against shoulders 64S of bore 64.
The detent ball/pin 66 is suitably shaped so that when biased
against shoulders 64S, the ball/pin tip projects sufficiently
beyond the rim inside face to securely engage the valve assembly
disposed in the counter bore 56. A fastener or closure post (not
shown) may be positioned in the bore 64 to secure the ball/pin 66
and spring inside the bore, and prevent undesired matter from
entering the bore.
[0027] Referring now again to FIG. 4A, regulator 52 includes valve
assembly 72. As may be realized from FIG. 4A, the valve assembly 72
is placed within the counter bore 56 of the end plate 54 to form
regulator 52. Valve assembly 72 generally comprises valve 74,
gasket 76 and a mounting fastener (not shown). As will be
described, valve assembly 72 comprises a closure capable of being
selectably moved between open and closed positions and between
intermediate positions with the closed position closing the
passage, at least in part. As will be described below, valve
assembly 72 may operate as a variable firing cycle rate selector
where the operator may select different firing rates as a function
of the rotational position of valve 72. Valve 74 is shown in FIGS.
8A-8D. In this embodiment, valve 74 is shaped to conformally fit
within the counter bore 56 in the end plate 64 of the receiver
extension. The outer periphery 74P of the valve 74, or at least the
front portion of the periphery 74P received within the rim 54P of
counterbore 56, may have a diameter sized to form a close fit with
the inside face of the rim 54P. As seen best in FIGS. 8B and 8D,
the valve 74 has a bore 74B sized to receive and form a running fit
with the spindle 58 (see FIG. 7B) of end plate 54. In the exemplary
embodiment, valve 74 may be a one piece member of unitary
construction. The valve 74 may be made of metal or plastic or any
other suitable material. As seen in FIGS. 8A-8B and 8D, the valve
74 may have a hollowed portion 74I. In this embodiment, the hollow
74I extends inwards from the front face 74F of the valve 74, and
has a generally semi-circular shape. The hollow is sized so that,
when mated to the end plate 54 with the valve 74 positioned so that
hollow 74I circumferentially overlaps, at least in part, one or
more of the regulator ports 62, the radial width of the hollow is
coextensive with the bore of the ports 62. In other words, the
inner and outer radial edges 741L, 741M of the hollow are
respectively outside the bore of the ports 62 in the end plate 54.
The valve has ports 74A in the rear face communicating with the
hollow 74I. The valve further may have outer ports 740 in the outer
rim 74P of the valve that also communicate with the hollow 74I. In
this embodiment, rear ports 74H may be formed by bores extending
from the rear face 74R (as seen in FIG. 8D) into the hollow. Seven
ports 74H are shown in FIG. 8B for example purposes, and in
alternate embodiments more or fewer ports may be used of any
desired size. The rear ports 74H may have a bore of about 0.125
inch diameter, though as noted above any suitable bore may be used.
In this embodiment, there are a corresponding number (i.e. seven)
of rim ports 740. The rim ports 740 are formed by suitable bores
(e.g. about 0.125 diameter) extending radially inward from the
outer rim 74P to the hollow 74I. As seen in FIG. 8C, the outer
ports 740 are located on a resolution of the outer rim that is not
located or overlapped by the rim lip 50P (see FIG. 7B) of the
extension receiver when the valve 74 is mated to the end rate 54.
In this embodiment, the bores for outer ports 740 may intersect the
bores of the rear ports 74H. In alternate embodiments, the number,
size and spacing of the outer ports may be altered as desired. In
still other alternate embodiments, the valve may be provided with
any desired combination of rear and outer ports including no rear
ports, or no outer ports. As seen in FIG. 8D, the rear ports and
outer ports respectively provide fluid flow paths, indicated by
arrow RF, of respectively, for fluid in the hollow 74I subjected to
positive head. The flow areas provided by the rear ports 74H and
outer ports 740 may be larger than the flow area defined by the
ports 62 in the end plate 54 of the extension receiver.
[0028] As seen in FIGS. 8A-8D, the portion of valve 74 opposite the
hollow 74I is generally solid, so that when this portion of the
valve 74 is positioned to cover the ports 62 in the end plate, the
regulator is closed and fluid communication from the inside 50I of
the receiver extension tube through ports 62 is blocked. In this
embodiment, the front face 74F of the valve 74 has a blind slot 74G
formed therein as shown in FIG. 8B. The blind slot 74G provides
capture to gasket 76 (see FIG. 4A). The gasket 76, and hence slot
76G in the rear face of the valve is sized, so that when the valve
74 is positioned to the closed position, described below, the
gasket covers all ports 62 in the end plate 54 of the receiver
extension. Gasket 76 may be made of any suitable resiliently
compliant material such as rubber, neoprene or composite. In
alternate embodiments, the gasket, and capture space in the valve
may have any other suitable shape and be located in any other
suitable position. As seen in FIGS. 8B-8C, the outer rim 74P of the
valve has engagement recesses 74E, 74EC for engagement of the
spring loaded detent 63 in the end plate 54 (see FIG. 7C). The
recesses 74EC, 74E are located on the periphery of the valve to
provide the selectable positions of the regulator 52. Recess 74EC
is located opposite the gasket holding recess 74G, and its position
in cooperation with the location of the spring loaded detent 63
(see FIG. 7C) defines the regulator closed position. The other
recesses 74E are located opposite the hollowing 74I and define
different flow conditions for the regulator 52.
[0029] The regulator 52 is assembled by placing valve 74, with
holding gasket 76 in slot 74G, into the counter bore 56 in the end
plate 54 of the receiver extension 50. The valve 74 is positioned
with its front face 74F against the extension receiver end plate.
Accordingly, the hollow 74I and gasket 76 are facing the end plate.
Spindle 58 is received in bore 74B so that the valve may be rotated
clockwise/counterclockwise about the spindle. When the fastener
(not shown) fastens the valve 74 to the end plate, the gasket 76
may be compressed against the inner surface of counter bore 56. As
may be realized, the regulator 52 is controlled by rotating the
valve 74 to the various positions defined by the engagement
recesses 74E, 74EC. Referring now again to FIG. 4A, and also to
FIG. 5A, which show the regulator 52 in the fully open position,
where all the ports 62 in the receiver extension end plate are
coincident or otherwise communicating without impediment with
hollow 74I in the valve 74. In this position the recess 74EO in the
valve is engaged by the spring loaded detent 63 stably holding the
valve in the position relative to the receiver extension. The
regulator fully open position is also shown in FIG. 6A. As seen in
FIG. 6A, in this position the ports 62 in the receiver extension
are within the coverage of the hollow 74I in the valve 74. As may
be realized, as the valve 74 is rotated about the spindle 58 (see
FIG. 7B) from the fully open position shown in FIG. 6A, the hollow
74I is rotated away from the ports 62, so that the ports become
progressively misaligned with hollow 74I and blocked by gasket 76
in the valve 74. Continued rotation of valve 74, such as to an
orientation about 180.degree. from the fully open position in FIG.
6A, results in the gasket 76, in this embodiment, covering and
hence closing all ports 62 in the receiver extension. In this
position, illustrated in FIGS. 4B, 5B and 6B, the regulator 52 is
closed. The engagement recess 74EC in the valve is engaged by the
spring loaded detent 63, when the valve is in this position, to
stably hold the valve closed. As described before, the valve 74 may
be positioned in intermediate open positions as desired.
[0030] Thus, in the exemplary embodiment, the operator may readily
control the regulator 52 by rotating valve 74 as desired. In the
event the operator wishes to operate the firearm substantially
immediately upon removal from water immersion, the operator may
rotate valve 74 to fully open regulator 52 (position shown in FIG.
4A, 5A, 6A) as described before. This position provides for maximum
fluid flow through the regulator. After the regulator 52 is opened,
the operator may substantially immediately (for example within
about two seconds or less from opening the regulator, or if the
regulator is open prior to removal from immersion) commence to
fire. The open regulator allows any water in the receiver extension
to be discharged by the cycle action of the bolt carrier as well as
standing water head. Any water may be discharged freely through the
regulator with negligible effect on the cycle action of the bolt
carrier. This is not possible with conventional firearms. Further,
the operator may selectably adjust the cycle rate of the firearm
with the regulator 52, when the firearm is operated in the
automatic mode. As noted before, when fully open the regulator 52
allows the maximum fluid flow therethrough. As the regulator is
progressively closed, by rotating valve 74 toward the fully closed
position, the fluid flow rate through regulator 52 is progressively
reduced. The minimum fluid flow through the regulator 52 is
achieved when in the closed position. Air resistance in the
receiver extension to the buffer as it is being moved by the bolt
carrier cycle, and to the action spring as it is being compressed
by the buffer correspondingly increases as the regulator goes from
open to closed positions, with a commensurate but inverse affect
(an air pressure resistance increases, cyclic rate decreases) on
the cyclic rate of the firearm. The cyclic variance that may be
achieve by controlling the regulator 52 between its open position
and closed position may be about 40-50 cycles/second in the M-4
type firearm 30.
[0031] Referring now to FIG. 9A, there is shown an end view of an
alternate embodiment lower receiver extension 80 having end plate
82. In this embodiment, the end plate 82 may be integral to the
unitary construction member forming the receiver extension 80. In
alternate embodiments, the end plate may be a separate member, such
as a separate end cap, that may be a mechanically fastened or
otherwise bonded to the receiver extension tube. End plate 82 has a
port or aperture 84 extending therethrough providing fluid
communication between the interior volume in the receiver extension
80, where for example the action spring 18 (shown dotted) and
buffer assembly are housed similar to spring 18 and buffer 20 in
FIG. 2, and the exterior of the extension receiver. In the
embodiment shown, ports 84 are machined in receiver extension 80
radially closer to the center of receiver extension as compared to
the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A. In doing so, spring 18 will not
impede the flow of fluid through ports 84. In the embodiment shown,
there are three ports 84 formed in the end plate 82; two of the
ports being drilled diameters through with the central port being a
machined kidney slot. In alternate embodiments, any desired number
of ports may be provided in any number of shapes. For example, the
ports may be a slot or combinations of any shape. As a further
example, the ports may be cones or the diameters may have a radius
on the entry and exit points to facilitate flow and minimize wear
on the sealing surface of the regulator. The ports 84 may be formed
by any suitable means, such as drilling through plate 84. The ports
84 may be of any suitable shape or size to allow desired level of
communication between interior volume and the exterior without
adversely affecting the structural function of the end plate. In
alternate embodiments, more or fewer ports may be provided in the
lower portion of the end plate, and additional ports may be located
in other areas around the periphery of the end plate. Other
features of receiver extension 80 may be similar to that of
receiver extension 50.
[0032] Referring now to FIG. 9B, there is shown an isometric view
of an alternate embodiment regulator 90. Regulator 90 has a
generally hollowed portion 92 and a generally solid portion 94.
Ports 106 are provided in hollowed portion 92. When hollowed
portion 92 is positioned to cover the ports 84 in the end plate,
the regulator is opened and fluid communication from the inside of
the receiver extension tube through ports 84 is not blocked. When
solid portion 94 is positioned to cover the ports 84 in the end
plate, the regulator is closed and fluid communication from the
inside of the receiver extension tube through ports 84 is blocked.
When valve 90 is rotated at intermediate positions between the two
aforementioned extremes, the flow through ports 84 is variably
regulated from the two extremes. In this embodiment, the front face
94A of the valve 90 has a kidney shaped o-ring groove 96 formed
therein. Groove 96 provides a seat for o-ring 98. The o-ring 98 and
the corresponding groove 96 is sized, so that when the valve 90 is
positioned to the closed position, the o-ring enclosed area covers
all ports 84 in the end plate 82 of the receiver extension 80.
o-ring 98 may be made of any suitable resiliently compliant
material such as rubber, neoprene, viton or other suitable material
or composite. In alternate embodiments, the o-ring, gasket, and
capture space in the valve may have any other suitable shape and be
located in any other suitable position or have multiple seals or
sealing surfaces. The outer rim 100 of the valve 90 has engagement
recesses 102A-102P for engagement of the spring loaded detent in
the end plate 82. The recesses are located on the periphery of the
valve to provide the selectable positions of the regulator 52. The
recesses may have different depths, for example, to allow the user
to know when in the full open or full closed position. Recesses may
be provided at suitable locations, for example, to define different
flow conditions for the regulator 90. In alternate embodiments,
more or less recesses may be provided in alternate locations. In
alternate embodiments, stops may be provided, for example to let
the user know that the valve is at extremes of motion. A knurled
surface 104 may be provided to allow the operator to rotate valve
90 without slippage.
[0033] It should be understood that the foregoing description is
only illustrative of the exemplary embodiments. Various
alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in
the art without departing from the exemplary embodiments.
Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments are intended to embrace all
such alternatives, modifications and variances which fall within
the scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *