U.S. patent application number 11/234665 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-29 for expandable baton with low profile tip.
Invention is credited to Kevin L. Parsons.
Application Number | 20070072684 11/234665 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37776162 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070072684 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Parsons; Kevin L. |
March 29, 2007 |
Expandable baton with low profile tip
Abstract
An expandable baton having a linear tip, is constructed of heat
treatable alloy steel and is formed according to a method which
provides both ease of workability of the component materials and
strength for the resultant baton. The baton provides a compact and
easily openable security device with the added benefit of a slim
linear tip while maintaining the same manner of usability of the
most prized batons of the prior art. The slim linear tip, of the
type found acceptable by enlightened security, police and military
forces desiring a device that cannot be used in a manner described
as cruel or barbarous.
Inventors: |
Parsons; Kevin L.;
(Appleton, WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WELSH & KATZ, LTD
120 S RIVERSIDE PLAZA
22ND FLOOR
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Family ID: |
37776162 |
Appl. No.: |
11/234665 |
Filed: |
September 23, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/47.7 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41B 15/025
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/047.7 |
International
Class: |
A63B 15/00 20060101
A63B015/00 |
Claims
1. An expandable baton comprising: a plurality of elongated,
nesting, telescoping rigid baton sections, one of which is a handle
adapted for receiving and housing any remaining sections when the
baton is in a retracted, collapsed position, the remaining rigid
sections being releasable outwardly from the handle and selectively
self-locking in an extended position and slidably retractable into
the collapsed position: the handle having a hollow interior and an
open outer end through which any remaining rigid sections pass; one
additional rigid baton section having an outer perimeter adapted
for passing through the open outer end of the handle, the
additional baton section having opposite ends, an outer and an
inner end, the inner end always being contained in an adjacent
receiving rigid baton section in both the expanded and nested
positions; an intermediate baton section having a hollow interior
and open inner and outer ends, and wherein the one additional baton
section is of an outer perimeter adapted to pass through the open
inner end of the intermediate baton section; means for locking the
baton in the extended position wherein the open outer end of the
handle and the intermediate baton section each has a decreasing,
tapered internal diameter and the inner end of the adjacent nesting
baton section has an increasing, flared outer diameter such that
the flared inner end of the nesting baton section engages the
tapered outer end of the adjacent receiving baton section when the
baton is in the expanded position; and a tip portion attached to
the distal end of the additional baton section and having an outer
diameter substantially the same as the smallest outer diameter of
the additional baton section.
2. The expandable baton of claim 1, which includes a plurality of
telescoping members, each telescoping member being formed with a
heat treatable alloy steel and in which telescoping members are
configured such that the swaged portion on one end of each of the
telescoping members is adapted to be placed in mating engagement
with the flared portion on one end of an adjacent member such that
the flared portion of one member is jammed into the swaged portion
of the adjacent member.
3. The expandable baton of claim 1, further including a retainer
means associated with said cap for selectively, releasably
retaining the telescoping member in the retracted position, the
retaining means having a holding force which is adapted to be
released for automatically extending the baton through a swift
whipping action of the baton, the retaining means comprising: a
leaf spring having a base fixed relative to the cap of the baton
and located inside the handle, the leaf spring having a pair of
legs extending outwardly from the base for engaging diametrically
opposed positions on the inner diameter of the telescoping member
when said member is in the retracted position, for providing a
balanced holding force on the telescoping member for retaining the
telescoping member in the retracted position.
4. The expandable baton of claim 1, further including padding
material covering the main member of the baton.
5. The expandable baton of claim 1, wherein the intermediate baton
section comprises means to support the inner baton section when the
baton is in a collapsed position.
6. The expandable baton of claim 5 wherein the means to support
inner baton section is a retaining collar attached within
intermediate baton section.
7. The expandable baton of claim 6, wherein at least a portion of
the interior wall of the intermediate section of the baton is
threaded and the retaining collar comprises cooperative threadings
on its exterior surface; the retaining collar and the intermediate
baton section are releasably attached together by the
threadings.
8. The expandable baton of claim 6, wherein one surface of the
retaining collar comprises at least one opening such that a tool
maybe used to attach the collar within the intermediate tube.
9. The expandable baton of claim 8, wherein the tool comprises at
least one retaining collar opening engaging stud.
10. The expandable baton of claim 8, wherein the retaining collar
comprises generally a cylinder, the cylinder being tapered from its
proximal end to its distal end.
11. The expandable baton of claim 10, wherein the degree of taper
of the retaining collar coincides with the degree of taper of the
interior of the intermediate baton section, such that the baton
section and collar are easily attached together.
12. The expandable baton of claim 10, wherein the retaining collar
can only be assembled in one direction and the retaining collar
opening is placed on the distal end of the collar to guide the
placement of the collar within the baton section.
13. An expandable baton comprising: a plurality of elongated,
nesting, telescoping rigid baton sections, one of which is a handle
adapted for receiving and housing any remaining sections when the
baton is in a retracted, collapsed position, the remaining rigid
sections being releasable outwardly from the handle and selectively
self-locking in an extended position and slidably retractable into
the collapsed position: the handle having a hollow interior and an
open outer end through which any remaining rigid sections pass; one
additional rigid baton section having an outer perimeter adapted
for passing through the open outer end of the handle, the
additional baton section having opposite ends, an outer and an
inner end, the inner end always being contained in an adjacent
receiving rigid baton section in both the expanded and nested
positions; an intermediate baton section having a hollow interior
and open inner and outer ends, the intermediate baton section
comprises a retaining collar to support the inner baton section
when the baton is in a collapsed position, and wherein the one
additional baton section is of an outer perimeter adapted to pass
through the open inner end of the intermediate baton section; means
for locking the baton in the extended position wherein the open
outer end of the handle and the intermediate baton section each has
a decreasing, tapered internal diameter and the inner end of the
adjacent nesting baton section has an increasing, flared outer
diameter such that the flared inner end of the nesting baton
section engages the tapered outer end of the adjacent receiving
baton section when the baton is in the expanded position; and a tip
portion attached to the distal end of the additional baton section
and having an outer diameter no greater than the smallest outer
diameter of the additional baton section.
14. The expandable baton of claim 13, which includes a plurality of
telescoping members, each telescoping member being formed with a
heat treatable alloy steel and in which telescoping members are
configured such that the swaged portion on one end of each of the
telescoping members is adapted to be placed in mating engagement
with the flared portion on one end of an adjacent member such that
the flared portion of one member is jammed into the swaged portion
of the adjacent member.
15. The expandable baton of claim 13, further including a retainer
means associated with said cap for selectively, releasably
retaining the telescoping member in the retracted position, the
retaining means having a holding force which is adapted to be
released for automatically extending the baton through a swift
whipping action of the baton, the retaining means comprising: a
leaf spring having a base fixed relative to the cap of the baton
and located inside the handle, the leaf spring having a pair of
legs extending outwardly from the base for engaging diametrically
opposed positions on the inner diameter of the telescoping member
when said member is in the retracted position, for providing a
balanced holding force on the telescoping member for retaining the
telescoping member in the retracted position.
16. The expandable baton of claim 13, further including padding
material covering the main member of the baton.
17. The expandable baton of claim 13, wherein at least a portion of
the interior wall of the intermediate section of the baton is
threaded and the retaining collar comprises cooperative threadings
on its exterior surface; the retaining collar and the intermediate
baton section are releasably attached together by the
threadings.
18. The expandable baton of claim 17, wherein one surface of the
retaining collar comprises at least one opening such that a tool
maybe used to thread the collar within the intermediate tube.
19. The expandable baton of claim 18, wherein the tool comprises at
least one retaining collar opening engaging stud.
20. The expandable baton of claim 18, wherein the retaining collar
comprises generally a cylinder, the cylinder being tapered from its
proximal end to its distal end.
21. The expandable baton of claim 20, wherein the degree of taper
of the retaining collar coincides with the degree of taper of the
interior of the intermediate baton section, such that the baton
section and collar are easily attached together.
22. The expandable baton of claim 20, wherein the retaining collar
can only be assembled in one direction and the retaining collar
opening is placed on the distal end of the collar to guide the
placement of the collar within the baton section.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention concerns kinetic impact devices such
as batons and nightsticks. More particularly the present invention
concerns an expandable baton having a low profile, linear tip for
use by law enforcement, military and peacekeeping personnel.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Expandable batons are well known and have gained widespread
acceptance as intermediate force weapons for use by law
enforcement, security and military personnel. One of the best known
of these weapons is the ASP Expandable Baton manufactured by
Armament Systems and Procedures, the assignee of the subject
application. Typically, the ASP Baton includes three telescoping
sections, the outer, largest section defining a handle adapted for
receiving and nesting the remaining sections when the baton is in a
collapsed position. In this position, the baton is approximately 8
to 10 inches long and can be carried by law enforcement personnel
in a suitable sheath on the belt of the uniform. Expandable batons
are adapted to be drawn quickly from a sheath, pocket or other
carrying mechanism and opened in a swinging action for whipping the
nested sections out to an extended position and locking them in
position for use as an intermediate force weapon.
[0003] Since their inception, this type of prior art baton has been
equipped with a ball or knob on the distal end. The large diameter
of such a ball or knob has been a requirement of the construction
of the baton and had been thought to produce a less serious or
permanent injury to a person. However, it is now thought, and has
in some cases been legislated against, by some members of the world
community, such as some European countries including Germany, that
batons having a ball or knob may be used by some to abuse or
torture persons. As such, many countries are moving to exclude
prior batons from the equipment lists of their security, law
enforcement and military personnel (see for example Civil and
Political Rights, Including the Question of Torture and Detention,
United Nations Economic and Social Council, Commission on Human
Rights, Fifty-ninth Session, Item 11(a) of the provisional agenda,
E/Cn.4/2003/69, 13 Jan. 2003, paragraph 33, page 12). While any
individual piece of equipment in any field can be abused or used to
abuse it should be understood that the ASP batons of my prior
patents have been hailed by police, military and security personnel
and forces as well made non-lethal equipment. These compact,
durable and easily usable batons help in preserving order, securing
property and defending lives as a formidable non-lethal deterrent
for use by well trained personnel.
[0004] Until now, however, it has not been possible to produce an
expandable baton, of the type found in applicant's prior U.S.
Patents (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,110,375, 5,149,092, 5,161,800, 5,348,297
and 5,356,139) all of which are incorporated herein by reference,
without having an enlarged diameter distal end piece such as a ball
or knob. The enlarged diameter distal end piece, which is attached
to the inner most tubular member is responsible for holding the
central tubular member within the handle member when the baton is
in its collapsed orientation.
[0005] It would be desirable to be able to manufacture a baton,
without an enlarged diameter end piece, so that it would be
acceptable to countries having a predilection against enlarged
diameter end piece batons, while providing a collapsible baton that
can maintain a collapsed orientation, when desired. Further it
would be desirable to provide such a baton with a manner of
expanding that is identical to current batons such that the manner
of using such batons remains unchanged.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In accordance with the present invention, an expandable
baton is provided. The baton comprises a plurality of elongated,
nesting, telescoping rigid baton sections, one of which is a handle
adapted for receiving and housing any remaining sections when the
baton is in a retracted, collapsed position. The remaining rigid
sections are releasable outwardly from the handle and selectively
self-locking in an extended position and slidably retractable into
the collapsed position. The handle comprises a hollow interior and
an open outer end through which any remaining rigid sections pass.
One additional rigid baton section is provided with an outer
perimeter adapted for passing through the open outer end of the
handle. The additional baton section has opposite ends, an outer
and an inner end, wherein inner end is always contained in an
adjacent receiving rigid baton section in both the expanded and
nested positions.
[0007] An intermediate baton section is provided, having a hollow
interior and open inner and outer ends, and wherein the one
additional baton section is of an outer perimeter adapted to pass
through the open inner end of the intermediate baton section. Also
provided, as part of each rigid section, is means for locking the
baton in the extended position. The means are such that the open
outer end of the handle and the intermediate baton section each has
a decreasing, tapered internal diameter. Further, the inner end of
the adjacent nesting baton section has an increasing, flared outer
diameter. In this way, the flared inner end of the nesting baton
section engages the tapered outer end of the adjacent receiving
baton section when the baton is in the expanded position. The baton
further includes a tip portion attached to the distal end of the
additional baton section and having an outer diameter substantially
the same size as the smallest outer diameter of the additional
baton sections. In one preferred embodiment, the outer tip portion
is no greater than the smallest outer diameter of the additional
baton section.
[0008] The use of a tip having a diameter no larger than the
diameter of the smallest diameter of the additional baton section
requires a new means of retaining the baton sections within the
handle in the retracted collapsed position. To accomplish this
means are provided that create an impediment to the intermediate
baton section's inadvertent movement out of the handle when a
collapsed position is desired. In a preferred embodiment, the means
includes the use of a leaf spring lock, as in prior art batons, for
holding the additional baton section in the retracted position, and
a retaining collar, attached within the proximal portion of the
intermediate baton section and on which the additional baton
section rests when in the retracted position. In this manner, the
additional section is locked in place, adjacent to the distal
surface of the retaining collar, by the leaf spring, such that the
intermediate section is retained as the collar attached within the
intermediate section blocks movement of the intermediate section
relative to the additional section. It will be understood that the
additional section is locked in place by the leaf spring so that it
holds the intermediate section in place by pressing down onto the
retaining collar.
[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the retaining collar is a tapered
hollow cylindrical member having exterior threadings for engagement
with corresponding threadings on the interior wall of the proximal
end of the intermediate baton section. In the preferred embodiment,
the proximal end of the cylindrical member is provided with
engagement openings so that the tapered cylindrical member can be
easily threaded into the intermediate baton section with a special
tool that engages the engagement openings. The engagement openings
further serve to correctly identify the proximal and distal ends of
the tapered cylindrical member so that the baton can be more easily
assembled.
[0010] A more detailed explanation of the invention is provided in
the following description and claims and is illustrated in the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a baton made in accordance
with the teachings of the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the baton of FIG. 1, in a
second, collapsed, configuration.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a baton of the prior art in
an expanded configuration.
[0014] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the baton of FIG. 2, in a
second, collapsed, configuration.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the baton of FIG.
1A.
[0016] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the proximal end of the
baton of FIG. 3, taken along the plane of line 3A-3A.
[0017] FIG. 3B is a cut-away view of the baton of FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the retaining collar of a
device made in accordance with the teachings of the present
invention.
[0019] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of one embodiment of an
assembly tool used with a device made in accordance with the
teachings of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of the assembly of a
device made in accordance with the teachings of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT
[0021] While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in
various forms, there is shown in the drawings a number of presently
preferred embodiments that are discussed in greater detail
hereafter. It should be understood that the present disclosure is
to be considered as an exemplification of the present invention,
and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific
embodiments illustrated. It should be further understood that the
title of this section of this application ("Detailed Description of
the Illustrative Embodiment") relates to a requirement of the
United States Patent Office, and should not be found to limit the
subject matter disclosed herein.
[0022] An expandable baton 10 according to the present invention is
shown in an expanded position in FIG. 1 and in an extended position
in FIG. 1A. A main section 12 of the baton 10 serves as a handle
and is formed from a hollow tube with an inner diameter d of
approximately one-inch. The main section 12 is covered by a padding
material 13 to provide a comfortable, secure grip. For comparison
purposes, an expandable baton of the prior art is shown in FIGS. 2
and 2A. It will be seen in those figures, that the tip 5 of the
baton has a diameter larger than the diameter of the adjacent baton
section. As will be known by persons having ordinary skill in the
art, the expanded tip of the prior art plays a useful role in
maintaining the baton in its closed configuration as well as
provided a tip which many security, police and military agencies
consider less likely to cause damage to persons.
[0023] Referring to FIG. 3, one end 12a of the main section 12 is
threaded to receive an end cap 14. The end cap 14 secures an end
plate 15 across the threaded end of the main section 12. A leaf
spring 16 is riveted to the center of the end plate 15 for holding
the baton 10 in the retracted position, as will be explained below.
It will be understood by persons having ordinary skill in the art
that other means, including any type of fastening means, adhesives
or physical connection such as welding, can be used to connect a
leaf spring 16 to end plate 15, without departing from the novel
scope of the present invention.
[0024] Opposite the threaded end, the main section 12 is swaged
down to a reduced diameter. The baton 10 includes two coaxial
telescoping sections 20 and 21 of progressively decreasing
diameter. The larger telescoping section 20 is flared on one end to
mate with the swaged end of the main section 12 in the extended
position (FIG. 1). Further, the flared end of section 20 is also
threaded to receive a tapered cylindrical member 32, which will be
explained in greater detail below. The other end of telescoping
section 20 is swaged to mate with a flare on the smaller
telescoping section 21.
[0025] A linear tip 22, having a distal end 22d having a diameter
substantially the same size as the smallest diameter of smaller
section 21 is provided with threadings 22t on its proximal end 22p.
In a preferred embodiment, linear tip 22 has a diameter that is no
greater than the smallest diameter of smaller section 21. In that
embodiment the linear tip 22 has a diameter of 0.438 inches and an
overall length, including the tip portion and the portion attached
to the baton, of about 1.146 inches. In a preferred embodiment
linear tip 22 is attached to the baton 10 with cooperative
threadings. Threadings 22t of the linear tip are formed to
cooperate with threadings 21t within the distal end of smaller
section 21 of baton 10. The threaded section 22t of tip 22, in a
preferred embodiment, has a length of about 0.75 inch. Tip 22 is
threaded onto the end of the smaller section 21 to allow the baton
10 to be used for control or defense within the guidelines for uses
of such devices in a so-thought non-torturing manner. The use of a
linear tip 22, such as the one shown in the figures reduces the
risk of inflicting serious or permanent injury and is a deterrent
to the use of the device for other than control and defense. It
will be understood by persons having ordinary skill in the art that
modifications to the sizes expressed herein can be made without
departing from the novel scope of the present invention.
[0026] A retaining collar 32 is provided, as noted above, and shown
in FIG. 4. Retaining collar 32 is generally a cylindrical
donut-shaped element, having a taper t from its proximal end to its
distal end. Taper t mirrors the taper formed in intermediate
section 20, such that threadings 32t on the surface of retaining
collar 32 cooperate with threadings formed within the proximal end
of intermediate section 20. In a preferred embodiment, collar 32
has an outer diameter of approximately 0.625 inches and a thickness
of approximately 0.200 inches. In a preferred embodiment, the
threads of collar 32 are specially made in a specific design such
that they meet the tolerances of the tapered tube. In order to
accomplish this, a special threading must be made of the collar. In
one embodiment, the collar is threaded as follows (the threading
being in units and ranges of a type known to persons having
ordinary skill in the art): 0.594-28 thread with major diameter of
0.5929-0.5864 inches and a pitch diameter of 0.5697-0.5661 inches.
As shown in the figures, the collar further comprises a taper t
necessary for the appropriate fitting.
[0027] The edges of collar 22, in a preferred embodiment, are
chamfered to permit easy assembly and disassembly of the collar and
tube combination. Further, in a preferred embodiment assembly
openings 32a and 32b are provided in the outer surface 32o of
collar 32. By using a special assembly tool 30, having assembly
teeth 30a and 30b, aligned to cooperate with assembly openings 32a
and 32b on collar 32, collar 32 can be easily screwed into and out
of tube 20 as desired, as will be explained below.
[0028] In a preferred embodiment tube section 20 has a length of
approximately 7.41 inches, a proximal end diameter of approximately
0.69 inches and a distal end diameter of approximately 0.45 inches.
Throughout the length of all of the tube sections of the device of
the present invention, the tubes taper from proximal to distal
ends. It will be understood, then, that the section of tube 20 into
which collar 32 is threaded generally comprises a taper throughout
its length. In order for the threadings of collar 32 to cooperate
with the threadings of tube 20, collar 32 and threads 22t must also
be tapered precisely to fit therein. In a preferred embodiment, the
internal threads of tube section 20 are specially made in a
specific design such that they meet the tolerances of collar 32, as
described above. In order to accomplish this, a special threading
must be made of tube section 20. In one embodiment, tube section 20
is threaded as follows (the threading being in units and ranges of
a type known to persons having ordinary skill in the art): 0.594-28
thread with minor diameter of 0.5550-0.5640 inch and pitch diameter
of 0.5708-0.5754 inch.
[0029] While the above threadings are a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, it will be understood, by persons having
ordinary skill in the art, that this is only one combination of
threadings, cooperatively between the collar 32 and internal
diameter of tube section 20, can be made in any size such that the
tube section and collar cooperate in the manner required to effect
the present invention. The specific threading for a preferred
embodiment of the present invention is very specific, and the
assignee of the present invention refers to the threading as "ASP
THREAD".TM.. Such threading require extraordinary skill in the use
of threading machines but yield desirable results otherwise not
attainable with the degree of usefulness and ease demonstrated in
the present invention.
[0030] The diameter of each section 12, 20 and 21 is sized to allow
nesting of each section 20 and 21 inside the next larger section 12
or 20, respectively, in the retracted position (FIG. 1). Although
three sections 12, 20 and 21 are shown in this embodiment, it
should be apparent to one skilled in the art that the number of
sections, the retracted length, and the extended length are
arbitrary. Batons of two or four sections are also practical.
Batons of five or more sections are possible, but are not as
practical. Three sections are preferred for providing a compact
retracted size without an excessive number of joints 25 in the
extended position.
[0031] Similarly, while the embodiment shown has a retracted length
of approximately six inches and an extended length of approximately
16 inches, full length batons of 36 inches or more are popular as
replacements for conventional fixed length night sticks. In fact,
as the length increases, the need for rigidity and strength at the
joints 15 increases dramatically, all of which imparts a greater
importance to the strength and rigidity afforded by this
invention.
[0032] Each joint 25 is a deadlock taper joint formed by a flared
end of one section 20 or 21 being jammed tightly into the mating
swage on the adjacent section 12 or 20, respectively. This type of
joint 25 requires great strength to perform adequately.
[0033] In order to provide adequate strength for the joints 25 and
the sections 12, 20 and 21, while still maintaining ease of
workability for the sections 12, 20 and 21, a baton 10 according to
this invention is constructed using a heat treatable alloy steel
for the sections 12, 20 and 21. The particular steel preferred in
this embodiment 4140 steel, and the method used for forming the
sections 12, 20 and 21 is as follows. It will be understood by
persons having ordinary skill in the art that 4130, and other
materials having similar properties, may be substituted without
departing from the novel scope of the present invention.
[0034] Heat treatable steel has been used to formulate the batons
made in accordance with the patents cited above. In those devices,
and in the device of the present invention, it is necessary to
first fabricate the heat treatable steel alloy into the tubing
sizes needed for the sections 12, 20 and 21. One preferred method
is to form the tubing as seamless cold drawn 4140 alloy steel. The
tubing is prepared in three sizes corresponding to the different
basic diameters of the sections 12, 20 and 21 before swaging,
flaring of all of the joints 15 and the formation of internal
threadings 20t for the proximal end of intermediate tube 20 and 21t
for the distal end of tube 21. A preferred type of steel is
reported below, however, it will be understood by persons having
ordinary skill in the art that many variations on the type of
steel, or other structural materials such as graphite or titanium
based alloys, may be used without departing from the novel scope of
the present invention.
[0035] Once the tubing has been drawn and cut to an appropriate
length for each respective section 12, 20 and 21, the tubing
sections are annealed. The annealing softens the tubing and allows
the swages and flares to be easily formed, and the threadings 20t
and 21t to be formed, without cracking or introducing stress. The
annealing is performed by maintaining the tubing at 1350 degrees
Fahrenheit (F) in an endothermic atmosphere for one hour, then gas
cooling for about one hour until below 800 degrees F.
[0036] After the tubing has been softened by the above described
annealing process, the tubing is formed into the sections 12, 20
and 21. The smaller section 21 is flared on one end and tapped on
the other end to receive the linear tip 22. The larger section 20
is swaged on one end and flared on the other and then tapped to
receive collar 32. The main section 12 is swaged on one end and
threaded on the other to receive the end cap 14.
[0037] After forming, the respective sections 12, 20 and 21 are
hardened to give them the necessary rigidity and strength for the
joints 25. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the
steel used in the creation of the tube segments of the baton are
prepared in the following manner. It will be understood by persons
having ordinary skill in the art that other methods of material
treatment are known and that the specification of the use of the
following should not be considered as a limitation in the
manufacture of the device of the present invention. In a preferred
embodiment, as noted above, the through-hardening quench and temper
heat treatment to be applied to the baton end (comprising in this
embodiment T160 tubes fabricated from 4140 alloy steel) is done to
create a fully martensitic structure with minimum distortion and
scaling and freedom from cracking.
[0038] In the present embodiment, heat of the baton tubes to
austenitizing temperature is controlled within an atmosphere
furnace. The baton parts are fixtured or otherwise loaded in such a
manner as to ensure even temperature distribution throughout the
load during austenitizing and unimpeded flow of the quenchant
around each tube during quenching. The austenitizing temperature is
in the range of 1550.degree. F. to 1600.degree. F. The time at
austenitizing temperature shall be such to ensure that complete
austenitizing has occurred throughout the tubes; in a preferred
embodiment the time of austenitizing is a minimum of 30
minutes.
[0039] The quenching media in the preferred embodiment, can include
means to provide a vigorous agitation consistent with obtaining the
required as-quenched hardness and microstructure without causing
cracking or excessive distortion. The quenching media may be
natural oil or synthetic oil as long as the microstructural and
hardness requirements are met and no cracking or excessive
distortion occurs. Parts of the baton of the present invention are
cooled to within 50.degree. F. of the quenchant temperature before
removal and tempering.
[0040] It will be understood by persons having ordinary skill in
the art that the intent of this heat treatment, in a preferred
embodiment, is to obtain a microstructure consisting of a minimum
of 99% martensite throughout this section. In order to obtain this
microstructure the as-quenched hardness in the core, measured on a
cut and ground section taken at least 2'' from a tube end shall be
the equivalent of 53 HRC (71.2 HR30N) minimum.
[0041] When a longer length baton, such as the longer ASP brand
baton, end ( 7/16'') tubes used in the ASP 26'' and ASP 31'' batons
(fabricated from 4140 alloy steel) is desired, hardening must be
increased. The longer tubes require a fully martensitic structure
with minimum distortion and scaling and freedom from cracking. Due
to their extra length, special attention must be paid to racking
and quenching to ensure the required straightness is maintained.
Heating of the longer baton tubes to austenitizing temperature is
done in an atmosphere furnace at 1500.degree. F. to 1625.degree. F.
Parts are fixtured or otherwise loaded into the austenitizing
furnace in such a manner as to ensure even temperature distribution
throughout the load during austenitizing and unimpeded flow of the
quenchant around each tube during quenching. The quenching media,
in a preferred embodiment, is a salt bath maintained at 475.degree.
F. to 500.degree. F., with sufficient quench severity to obtain the
required hardness and microstructure but with a minimum of
distortion.
[0042] This heat treatment is used to obtain a microstructure
consisting of a minimum of 98% martensite throughout the section.
In order to obtain this microstructure, the as-quenched hardness in
the core, measured on a cut and ground section taken at least 2''
from a tube, is desired to be the equivalent of 53 HRC (71.2 HR30N)
at a minimum. The tubes of the device of the present invention are
tempered as soon after quenching as possible at 425.degree. E
(+/-10.degree.) for at least one hour at temperature. The process
develops a core hardness of between 68.5-73.0 HR30N (50-55 HFIC
equivalent).
[0043] In a preferred embodiment, aircraft quality,
chromium-molybdenum (4140) alloy steel seamless tubing is used. The
chemistry of tubing supplied to this specification shall be in
compliance with AMS-6381, Section 3.1 which is as follows:
TABLE-US-00001 Carbon 0.38-0.43 Manganese 0.75-1.00 Silicon
0.15-0.35 Phosphorous 0.025 Sulfur 0.025 Chromium 0.80-1.10
Molybdenum 0.15-0.25 Nickel 0.25 max. Copper 0.35 max.
[0044] This chemistry is similar to SAE 4140 with the exception of
the lower sulfur and phosphorous and the restrictions on nickel and
copper. The hardenability, in a preferred embodiment, is, per
Section 3.3.3 of AMS-6381, Rockwell C 50 minimum at J6 as
determined on a standard end quench specimen per ASTM A255. This
requirement would be met by material conforming to SAE 4140H.
[0045] Tubing in a preferred embodiment is produced by a seamless
process, finished by cold drawing. After the last cold draw pass
the tubing is thermally treated to meet the required properties.
After the final cold draw pass, the tubing shall be thermally
treated to meet the mechanical property requirements for Condition
N of MIL-T-6736. For the wall thicknesses used the required
properties are as follows: TABLE-US-00002 Tensile Strength (psi
95,000 Yield Strength (psi min.) 75,000 Elongation (% min. strip)
12 Elongation (% min. strip) 7
[0046] In another embodiment, hardening is performed by an
austempering process comprising the steps of heating in a neutral
salt at 1500.degree. F. for 30 minutes and then cooling in an
agitated austempering salt for one hour at 650.degree. F. The
resulting hardness ranges from 38 to 43 Rockwell C scale, with
hardnesses of 41-42 being typical. The steel further provides
tensile strengths of 300 pounds.
[0047] The hardened sections 12, 20 and 21 are then assembled. The
smaller section 21 is inserted through section 20 and the linear
tip 22 is threaded onto section 21. A tapered cylindrical member 32
is threaded into the proximal end of section 20, using special tool
30, having engagement teeth 30a and 30b, to spanner holes or engage
engagement openings 32a and 32b on cylindrical member 32. It will
be understood that in order to aid in the correct assembly of the
baton of the present invention, the user will understand that the
surface of collar 32 having engagement openings faces outwardly
from the proximal end of tube section 20, when assembly is desired.
This is particularly helpful when the small size of collar 32 is
seen and the importance of correct assembly, due to the taper t
built into collar 32 and tube section 20 is understood. As a result
of careful matching of threads, collar 32 "bottoms out" into tube
section 20, such that when the user can no longer turn special tool
30 further, collar 32 is properly in place in tube section 20 so
that the proximal end of tube section 21 engages the top, or distal
end, 32i of collar 32. The use of collar 32 having means to
indicate correct positioning, with respect to both the openings for
engagement of the assembly tool and the "bottoming out" when
correctly placed, aids in the present invention being user friendly
and easily repairable, including repairs necessary in the field.
Further, it will be understood by persons having ordinary skill in
the art, that kits having replaceable components can be provided to
users of the present invention, such that repairs and replacements
can be accomplished in the ordinary course of the use of the device
of the present invention.
[0048] The assembly of sections 20 and 21, and linear tip 22 is
then inserted through main section 12. An O-ring 12o is placed on
threadings 12t to help keep the interior of baton 10 dry, in all
moisture conditions. Finally, the end plate 15 is placed over the
back of the main section 12 and the end cap 14 is threaded onto the
main section 12, and over O-ring 12o.
[0049] In the assembly and use of the device of the present
invention, tube sections are manufactured in the manner discussed
above. Tip 22 is screwed into tube section 21, which is then slid
within tube section 20; collar 32 is screwed into the proximal end
of tube section 20, using tool 30 to engage assembly openings 32a
and 32b and then rotate collar 32 so that threadings 32 engage
cooperative threadings 20t in tube section 20. In this manner, tube
sections 21 and 20 are assembled together. The assembly of tube
sections 20 and 21 are then placed within the opening at the
proximal end of tube section 12. An O-ring 12o is placed distally
of the threadings 12a of tube section 12, the leaf spring 16 and
end plate 15 combination is placed within proximal end opening of
tube section 12, and cap 14 is threaded onto tube section 12. As
shown in FIG. 3, in a collapsed position, the proximal end of tube
section 21 rests on the inner surface 32i of collar 32 and leaf
spring 16 penetrates the inner diameter of collar 32 and expands to
hold tube section 21 in a retracted position. Because tube section
21 rests on collar 32, which is attached to the proximal end of
tube 20, leaf spring 16 acts to maintain tube 20 in a collapsed
position as well. It will be understood by persons having ordinary
skill in the art that the present device can be opened, into its
extended or use position, using the typical sweeping motion of
batons of the prior art (specifically those covered by the patents
cited above).
[0050] It will be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the
art that many variations of the above-described preferred
embodiments are possible under this invention. For example, many
techniques are known, other than those described, for annealing and
hardening of heat treatable alloy steels which may be equally used
with this invention. Specifically, induction heating as a part of
the heat treating process is equally applicable. Similarly, other
types of heat treatable steel, as well as other materials having
similar strength and other characteristics, may be used other than
the specific types described. Finally, it should be appreciated
that other types of joints 25 may be used, including twist lock,
threaded, and many other types of known joints 25 for locking the
baton in the extended position. Any joint 25 benefits from the
increased strength afforded by this invention.
[0051] Although an illustrative embodiment of the invention has
been shown and described, it is to be understood that various
modifications and substitutions may be made by those skilled in the
art without departing from the novel spirit and scope of the
invention.
* * * * *