U.S. patent application number 12/761682 was filed with the patent office on 2010-09-09 for paintball marker with configurable supply line.
Invention is credited to Bryce A. Carrico, Jeffrey P. Douglas, Corey K. Rice, DENNIS J. TIPPMANN, JR..
Application Number | 20100224180 12/761682 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42677134 |
Filed Date | 2010-09-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100224180 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
TIPPMANN, JR.; DENNIS J. ;
et al. |
September 9, 2010 |
PAINTBALL MARKER WITH CONFIGURABLE SUPPLY LINE
Abstract
A paintball marker with a barrel that is coupled to a receiver.
A valve arrangement is provided to selectively vent gas to propel
projectiles through the barrel responsive to actuation of a firing
mechanism. The marker may be configured to provide fluid
communication between the valve arrangement and a compressed gas
source through either a first supply line passageway or a second
supply line passageway.
Inventors: |
TIPPMANN, JR.; DENNIS J.;
(Fort Wayne, IN) ; Carrico; Bryce A.; (Fort Wayne,
IN) ; Douglas; Jeffrey P.; (Fort Wayne, IN) ;
Rice; Corey K.; (Fort Wayne, IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BARNES & THORNBURG LLP
600 ONE SUMMIT SQUARE
FORT WAYNE
IN
46802
US
|
Family ID: |
42677134 |
Appl. No.: |
12/761682 |
Filed: |
April 16, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12016370 |
Jan 18, 2008 |
7699047 |
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12761682 |
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60880989 |
Jan 18, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
124/74 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41A 35/00 20130101;
F41B 11/62 20130101; F41B 11/721 20130101; F41B 11/50 20130101;
F41B 11/73 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
124/74 |
International
Class: |
F41B 11/32 20060101
F41B011/32 |
Claims
1. A paintball marker comprising: a barrel; a receiver with a front
portion coupled with the barrel and a rear portion configured to
receive a rear stock, wherein the receiver includes a grip portion
for a user to grasp during operation; a hopper configured to
provide a supply of projectiles to the receiver; a valve
arrangement configured to selectively vent gas to propel
projectiles through the barrel; a firing mechanism adapted to
actuate the valve arrangement; a first internal passageway defined
in the receiver that is configured to provide fluid communication
between the valve arrangement and a source of compressed gas,
wherein at least a portion of the first internal passageway extends
through the grip portion; and a second internal passageway defined
in the receiver that is configured to provide fluid communication
between the valve arrangement and a source of compressed gas,
wherein the second internal passageway extends to the rear portion
of the receiver.
2. The paintball marker of claim 1, further comprising a tank
adapter coupled with the grip portion, wherein the tank adapter
includes an adapter passageway that is configured to provide fluid
communication between a compressed gas source and the first
internal passageway.
3. The paintball marker of claim 2, further comprising a coupling
at least partially received in the tank adaptor that is configured
to provide fluid communication between the first internal
passageway and the adapter passageway.
4. The paintball marker of claim 2, wherein the first internal
passageway defines an opening in a bottom surface of the grip
portion.
5. The paintball marker of claim 4, wherein at least a portion of
the adapter passageway is aligned with the opening in the bottom
surface of the grip portion.
6. The paintball marker of claim 1, further comprising a rear stock
coupled with the rear portion of the receiver, wherein the rear
stock includes an internal passageway that is configured to provide
fluid communication between a compressed gas source and the second
internal passageway.
7. The paintball marker of claim 6, wherein the internal passageway
in the rear stock extends approximately along a longitudinally axis
of the rear stock.
8. The paintball marker of claim 7, wherein the internal passageway
in the rear stock extends substantially an entire length of the
rear stock.
9. The paintball marker of claim 6, wherein the second internal
passageway defines an opening in the rear portion of the
receiver.
10. The paintball marker of claim 9, wherein at least a portion of
the internal passageway in the rear stock is aligned with the
opening in the bottom surface of the grip portion.
11. The paintball marker of claim 1, wherein the first internal
passageway and the second internal passageway merge into a third
internal passageway defined in the receiver that is in fluid
communication with the valve arrangement.
12. A paintball marker comprising: a barrel; a hopper configured to
provide a supply of projectiles to the receiver; a valve
arrangement configured to selectively vent gas to propel
projectiles through the barrel; a firing mechanism adapted to
actuate the valve arrangement; and a receiver coupled with the
barrel, wherein the receiver includes a grip portion for a user to
grasp during operation, wherein the receiver defines an internal
passageway that extends between the valve arrangement and the grip
portion to provide fluid communication between the valve
arrangement and a source of compressed gas.
13. The paintball marker of claim 12, wherein the internal
passageway defines an opening in a bottom surface of the grip
portion.
14. The paintball marker of claim 12, further comprising a tank
adapter coupled with the grip portion, wherein the tank adapter
includes an adapter passageway that is configured to provide fluid
communication between a compressed gas source and the internal
passageway.
15. The paintball marker of claim 14, further comprising a coupling
at least partially received in the tank adaptor that is configured
to provide fluid communication between the internal passageway and
the adapter passageway.
16. The paintball marker of claim 14, wherein at least a portion of
the adapter passageway is aligned with an opening in a bottom
surface of the grip portion.
17. A paintball marker comprising: a barrel; a hopper configured to
provide a supply of projectiles to the receiver; a valve
arrangement configured to selectively vent gas to propel
projectiles through the barrel; a firing mechanism adapted to
actuate the valve arrangement; and a receiver with a front portion
coupled with the barrel and a rear portion configured to receive a
rear stock, wherein the receiver defines an internal passageway
that is configured to provide fluid communication between the valve
arrangement and a source of compressed gas, wherein the internal
passageway extends from the valve arrangement to the rear portion
of the receiver.
18. The paintball marker of claim 17, wherein the internal
passageway includes an inlet port that extends through the rear
portion of the receiver.
19. The paintball marker of claim 17, further comprising a rear
stock coupled with the rear portion of the receiver, wherein the
rear stock includes an internal passageway that is configured to
provide fluid communication between a compressed gas source and the
internal passageway defined in the receiver.
20. The paintball marker of claim 19, wherein the internal
passageway in the rear stock extends approximately along a
longitudinally axis of the rear stock.
21. The paintball marker of claim 20, wherein the internal
passageway in the rear stock extends substantially an entire length
of the rear stock.
22. The paintball marker of claim 19, wherein at least a portion of
the internal passageway in the rear stock is aligned with an inlet
port that extends through the rear portion of the receiver.
23. A paintball marker comprising: a barrel; a receiver coupled
with the barrel, wherein the receiver includes a first supply line
passageway configured to provide fluid communication between a
compressed gas source and the valve arrangement, wherein the
receiver includes a second supply line passageway configured to
provide fluid communication between a compressed gas source and the
valve arrangement; a hopper configured to provide a supply of
projectiles to the receiver; a valve arrangement configured to
selectively vent gas to propel projectiles through the barrel; a
firing mechanism adapted to actuate the valve arrangement; and
wherein the receiver is configured to provide fluid communication
between the valve arrangement and a compressed gas source through
either the first supply line passageway or the second supply line
passageway.
24. The paintball marker of claim 23, wherein the first supply line
passageway extends through at least a portion of the grip.
25. The paintball marker of claim 24, wherein the second supply
line passageway extends to the rear portion of the receiver.
26. The paintball marker of claim 25, further comprising a rear
stock that is configured to be connected with the rear portion of
the receiver, wherein the rear stock includes an internal
passageway that is configured to be in fluid communication with the
second supply line.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of
application Ser. No. 12/016,370, filed Jan. 18, 2008 (now U.S. Pat.
No. 7,699,047), which claimed priority to U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/880,989, filed on Jan. 18, 2007. The entire
disclosure of these applications is hereby incorporated by
reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to paintball markers
and like devices for firing frangible projectiles.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Paintball is a popular sport in which opposing sides attempt
to seek out and "shoot" one another with paintballs. Players use
paintball markers (also known as paintball guns) to propel the
paintballs with compressed gas or combustible fuel. The paintballs
are designed to break upon impact and leave a visible mark.
[0004] Since paintball games often simulate combat, paintball
markers that resemble military equipment are desirable to increase
the realism of the experience. For example, paintball markers have
been modified to resemble assault rifles, sniper rifles, etc. In
some cases, however, such modifications can be difficult to install
and remove. Moreover, the modifications may detract from the
marker's functionality and reliability.
SUMMARY
[0005] According to one aspect, the invention provides a paintball
marker. In one embodiment, the marker includes a barrel through
which projectiles are fired. A receiver may be provided with a
front portion coupled with the barrel and a rear portion configured
to receive a rear stock. In some cases, the receiver includes a
grip portion for a user to grasp during operation. The marker may
include a hopper configured to provide a supply of projectiles to
the receiver. A valve arrangement may be included that is
configured to selectively vent gas to propel projectiles through
the barrel. The marker may have a firing mechanism adapted to
actuate the valve arrangement. A first internal passageway may be
defined in the receiver that is configured to provide fluid
communication between the valve arrangement and a source of
compressed gas. In some cases, the first internal passageway
extends through the grip portion. A second internal passageway may
be defined in the receiver that is configured to provide fluid
communication between the valve arrangement and a source of
compressed gas. In some cases, the second internal passageway could
extend to the rear portion of the receiver.
[0006] Additional features and advantages of the invention will
become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of
the following detailed description of the illustrated embodiment
exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as
presently perceived. It is intended that all such additional
features and advantages be included within this description and be
within the scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The following description references the attached drawings
which were given as non-limiting examples only, in which:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example paintball marker
constructed according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0009] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the example paintball marker
shown in FIG. 1;
[0010] FIG. 3 is a left side view of the example paintball marker
shown in FIG. 1;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a detailed view of the grip assembly for the
example paintball marker shown in FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a right side view of the example paintball marker
shown in FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 6 is a rear view of the example paintball marker shown
in FIG. 1;
[0014] FIG. 7 is a front view of the example paintball marker shown
in FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 8 is a top view of the example paintball marker shown
in FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the example paintball marker
shown in FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 10 is a detailed perspective view of the forestock
shown in the example paintball marker in FIG. 1;
[0018] FIG. 10A is an exploded view of the forestock shown in FIG.
10;
[0019] FIG. 11 is a detail perspective view of an alternative
forestock that may be used with the example paintball in FIG.
1;
[0020] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example tool box
constructed in accordance with the embodiment of the invention in
which the tool box is in an open position to show items disposed
therein;
[0021] FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view showing the first and
second supply lines in the example paintball marker in FIG. 1;
[0022] FIG. 14 is a side cross-sectional view showing the second
supply line portion of the example paintball marker shown in FIG.
1, with an example rear stock attached to the marker;
[0023] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the example paintball
marker shown in FIG. 14, with a cross-sectional view of an example
rear stock attached to the marker;
[0024] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the example paintball
marker shown in FIG. 15, with the rearstock detached from the
marker;
[0025] FIG. 17 is a detailed perspective view of a portion of a
receiver according to an alternative embodiment;
[0026] FIGS. 18A-18C show example rear stocks that may be attached
to the marker;
[0027] FIGS. 19A-19E show example forestocks that may be attached
to the marker;
[0028] FIGS. 20A-20E show example tool boxes that resemble
magazines;
[0029] FIGS. 21A-21D show example front sights and handles that may
be connected to the marker;
[0030] FIG. 22 shows an example vertical handle that may be
connected to the marker;
[0031] FIG. 23 is a side cross-sectional view showing a first
supply line portion of an example paintball according to another
embodiment;
[0032] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view along line 24-24 of FIG.
23;
[0033] FIG. 25 is a side cross-sectional view showing a second
supply line portion of an example paintball according to another
embodiment; and
[0034] FIG. 26 is an enlarged view of the example second supply
line portion shown in FIG. 25.
[0035] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding
parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out
herein are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting the
scope of the invention in any manner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0036] FIGS. 1-9 illustrate an example paintball marker 100
constructed according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The invention could be implemented in a manual, semi-automatic, or
automatic marker, even though a semi-automatic marker is shown for
purposes of illustration. It should be appreciated that the marker
100 could use a variety of propellants to propel paintballs (or
other projectiles) from the marker 100. The term "propellant" is
broadly intended to encompass both compressed gas, such as carbon
dioxide and nitrogen, as well as combustible fuel, such as propane,
butane, and methylacetylene-propadiene ("MAPP").
[0037] In the example shown, the marker 100 includes a barrel 102
through which projectiles may be propelled. As shown, the barrel
102 is coupled with a receiver 104, which defines an interior
cavity dimensioned to house internal components of the marker 100.
As used herein, the term "coupled" is broadly intended to encompass
both direct and indirect connections. Typically, the barrel 102
includes external threads that may be received by internal threads
in the receiver 104. By way of other examples, the barrel 102 may
attach to the receiver 104 with an interference fit, frictional
fit, or unitary formation. The receiver 104 may be formed from a
variety of materials, such as aluminum, stainless steel, magnesium,
or composites. In embodiments in which the receiver 104 is made of
magnesium, it has been found that the production molds last
substantially longer than that of aluminum. In some embodiments,
the receiver 104 may have a clamshell-type body.
[0038] In the embodiment shown, the marker 100 includes a forestock
106. As best seen in FIGS. 10 and 10A, the forestock 106 may
include a bore 107 dimensioned to receive the barrel 102.
Preferably, the forestock 106 may be detachably coupled to the
receiver 104. In the example shown, a first pin 108 and a second
pin 110 extend through holes 111 in the forestock 106 and holes 113
in the receiver 104 (FIG. 2), thereby coupling the forestock 106 to
the receiver 104. In this example, the forestock 106 may be
detached from the receiver 104 by removing the pins 108 and 110 and
sliding the forestock 106 off the barrel 102. Conversely, a user
may mount the forestock 106 to the marker 100 by sliding the
forestock 106 over the barrel 102 such that the holes 111 in the
forestock 106 and the holes 113 in the receiver 104 are aligned.
The pins 108 and 110 may then be moved through the forestock 106
and receiver 104 to couple the forestock 106 to the receiver 104.
As best seen in FIG. 7, the pins 108 and 110 may include a bias
member 105 to prevent accidental removal of the pins 108 and 110.
Although the first pin 108 and second pin 110 are shown for
purposes of illustration, it should be appreciated that other quick
connections may be used to couple the forestock 106 to the receiver
104.
[0039] In some cases, the forestock 106 may be associated with a
barrel adapter 109. The barrel adapter 109 (best seen in FIG. 10A)
allows a user to configure the marker 100 with barrels of different
diameters. Consider a situation in which a user desires to use
barrels with either a 7/8 inch diameter or a 1 inch diameter. The
bore 107 could be dimensioned to receive the 1 inch barrel. If the
7/8 inch barrel is desired to be used, the user would place the
barrel through the adapter 109. In this example, the opening in the
adapter 109 would be dimensioned to receive the barrel, which is
7/8 inch in this example. The outer diameter of the adapter 109
would be dimensioned to be received by the bore 107, or 1 inch in
this example. As shown, the adapter is received in a recess 115
formed in the forestock 106.
[0040] In some embodiments, the forestock 106 may include a bottom
rail 112, a side rail 114, and/or a top rail 116 for mounting
accessories, such as sites, scopes, etc. In the example shown, the
marker 100 includes a front site 118 mounted to the top rail 116.
It should be appreciated that the marker 100 could be customized
with other types of sites, such as those shown in FIGS. 21A-2113.
By way of a further example, a vertical handle, such as shown in
FIG. 22, could be attached to the bottom rail 112.
[0041] Preferably, the user may select between a plurality of
interchangeable forestocks, which each allow a suitable quick
connection with the receiver 104 to customize the marker 100. For
example, if the receiver 104 includes holes 113, each of the
forestocks could include holes 111 to allow a quick connection
using pins 108 and 110. Example forestocks that could be used with
the marker 100 are illustrated in FIGS. 19A-19E. It should be
appreciated that other styles of forestocks could be used with the
marker 100.
[0042] In some embodiments, the marker 100 may include a tool box
120 for storing one or more items. In this embodiment, the tool box
120 is coupled with and extends from the receiver 104. Typically,
the tool box 120 is detachably coupled with the receiver 104;
however, the tool box 120 could be integral with or permanently
affixed to the receiver 104. Embodiments are also contemplated in
which the tool box 120 could be an internal storage compartment in
the receiver 104 that could be accessed by a user.
[0043] Preferably, the tool box 120 resembles a magazine that feeds
projectiles into the receiver. Instead of feeding projectiles into
the receiver 104, however, the tool box 120 would typically hold
tools for maintaining the marker 100, including but not limited to
hex wrenches or a tube of oil. As shown, the tool box 120 includes
a slot 122 dimensioned to receive a first supply line 124. In other
embodiments, the tool box 120 could include a connection for
coupling the first supply line 124. Preferably, the first supply
line 124 provides a source of compressed gas for a valve
arrangement 178 within the marker 100 (see FIG. 13). In some cases,
if the marker 100 were a combustible fuel powered marker, the first
supply line 124 may provide a supply of fuel, such as propane, to a
combustion chamber within the marker 100.
[0044] The tool box 120 may include an internal storage compartment
for storing items, such as tools. In the example shown in FIG. 12,
the tool box 120 includes a first side 130 and a second side 132
pivotally coupled with a bottom 134. Although the embodiment shown
includes an open top, the tool box 120 may be entirely closed,
since projectiles are not fed into the receiver 104 from the tool
box 120 in this embodiment.
[0045] As shown, the tool box 120 includes a first hinge 136 and a
second hinge 138 that allow the first side 130 and second side 132
to pivot, respectively. In this example, the hinges 136 and 138 are
living hinges, but separate hinges could be coupled with the sides
130 and 132 and bottom 134 in some cases. It should be appreciated
that other pivotal connections could also be used. Although this
example shows the tool box 120 hinged at the bottom 134, it should
be appreciated that the tool box 120 could be hinged at the sides
130 and 132, or the top, or not hinged at all.
[0046] In some cases, the tool box's 120 interior may include tool
holders configured to receive a specific arrangement of tools (or
other items). In the example shown, the tool box 120 includes slots
140 dimensioned to receive hex wrenches 142 in the first side 130
of the tool box 120. The second side 132 includes complementary
ridges 144 configured to close the slots 140 when the tool box 120
is closed, thereby holding the wrenches 142 in place. In this
example, the first side 130 of the tool box 120 also includes an
area for a tube of oil 146 that could be used to maintain the
marker 100. It should be appreciated that the internal cavity of
the tool box 120 could be configured to hold a variety of tools,
accessories, or other items.
[0047] In the example shown, the tool box 120 includes an opening
143 dimensioned to receive an internal latch 145 when the tool box
120 is closed. In this example, the tool box 120 includes an
opening 147 dimensioned to receive a latch mechanism in a tool box
mount 121 for detachably coupling the tool box 120 to the receiver
104.
[0048] Referring again to FIGS. 1-9, the marker 100 preferably
includes a tool box mount 121 configured to receive the tool box
120. As shown, the tool box mount 121 includes a release button 123
(best seen in FIG. 5) that controls a latch mechanism associated
with the tool box mount 121. In the example shown, the latch
mechanism engages the opening 147 in the tool box 120 to
selectively release the tool box 120 from the tool box mount 121.
It should be appreciated that a variety of mechanisms could be used
to detachably couple the tool 120 with the tool box mount 121, such
as an interference fit, frictional fit, magnets, etc.
[0049] In the example shown (as best seen in FIG. 2), the tool box
mount 121 is coupled with the receiver 104 using an interference
fit. As shown, the receiver 104 includes ridges 129 that extend
from the receiver 104. The top portion of the tool box mount 121
includes grooves 125 formed in a flange 127 that are configured to
receive the ridges 129. To couple the tool box mount 121 to the
receiver 104, the user would align the grooves 125 with the ridges
129, such that the ridges 129 extend through the grooves 125. The
tool box mount 121 may then be moved toward the barrel 102 in the
example shown such that the flange 127 creates an interference fit
with the ridges 129. The user may detach the tool box mount 121 by
moving the tool box mount 121 in an opposite direction (away from
the barrel 102 in this example) until the ridges 129 are aligned
with the grooves 125. Other mechanisms, such as a frictional fit,
could also be used to couple the tool box mount 121 with the
receiver 104.
[0050] Preferably, a plurality of interchangeable tool boxes and
tool box mounts may be provided to allow customization of the
marker 100. Typically, each of the tool boxes includes an interior
cavity for storing items, such as tools. Examples of tool boxes
that resemble magazines of types used for feeding projectiles into
the receivers of actual firearms are shown in FIGS. 20A-20E. It
should be appreciated that other styles could also be provided. The
tool box 120 may be formed from a variety of materials, including
but not limited to plastic, aluminum and magnesium.
[0051] The marker 100 may include a grip assembly 146. In the
example shown, the grip assembly 146 includes a grip 148 that is
dimensioned for a user to grasp. The grip assembly 146 includes a
trigger 150 for actuation by the user to fire the marker 100. The
trigger 150 may mechanically and/or electrically selectively fire
the marker 100. In the example shown, the trigger 150 is surrounded
by a trigger guard 152. As shown, the marker 100 includes a safety
154. In the position shown in FIG. 1, the safety 154 prevents the
marker 100 from firing; if moved to a fire position, the safety 154
allows the marker 100 to fire projectiles. Although the example
shown includes a lever for actuating the safety 154, it should be
appreciated that other forms of safety could be used.
[0052] In some embodiments, the grip assembly 146 may be detachably
coupled with the receiver 104. As shown, the grip assembly 146
includes a hole 155 that is alignable with a hole 157 in the
receiver 104 through which a pin 156 may be received. By removing
the pin 156 (and the lower pin 170), the grip assembly 146 may be
detached from the receiver 104. In the example shown, the lower
portion of the grip 148 includes an adaptor 158 configured to
receive a propellant source, such as a canister of carbon dioxide
or nitrogen. As discussed below, the adaptor 158 and first supply
line 124 are optional, depending on whether the rear stock attached
to the receiver 104 includes an internal passageway 186 for
connection to a propellant source (See FIGS. 15-16).
[0053] In the example shown, a picatinny rail 160 is attached to a
top portion of the receiver 104. The picatinny rail 160 may be used
to add risers, sites, handles, or other items to the receiver 104.
As shown, a rear sight 161 is coupled to the picatinny rail 160. By
way of another example, carry handles, such as shown in FIGS.
21c-21d, could be mounted to the picatinny rail 160.
[0054] In the embodiment shown, the marker 100 includes a hopper
162 for holding a plurality of projectiles to be fired. As shown,
the hopper 162 includes a lid 164 pivotably mounted to the hopper
162 to selectively open/close an opening to the hopper 162.
Preferably the hopper 162 has a low profile to reduce the target
area of the user and to allow a better line of site to fire the
marker 100. By way of example only, the hopper 162 may have a
length that is more than three times its height in some cases (see
FIG. 3). As shown, the hopper 162 is offset from the receiver 104
to allow a better line of site for the user to fire the marker 100.
However, the hopper 162 could be coupled to the receiver 104 on the
top (e.g., picatinny rail 160) or other location of the receiver
104.
[0055] In some cases, the hopper 162 may be coupled with a feed
mechanism 166 that feeds projectiles into the receiver 104. An
example feed mechanism that could be used with the marker 100 is
shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,739,323, which is incorporated herein by
reference.
[0056] Instead of a separate feed mechanism, the hopper 162 may
include an integral feed mechanism in some embodiments. For
example, the hopper 162 may be an agitating or force-fed hopper. In
some cases, the projectiles may be gravity fed into the receiver
104. For example, the lower portion of the hopper 162 may include a
passage that is coupled directly with the receiver 104, so that
projectiles may be fed one-by-one through the passage into the
receiver 104. In some embodiments, the receiver 104 (or other
portion of the marker 100) may include an internal cavity for
receiving a plurality of projectiles. By way of another example,
the receiver 104 may be stick fed with projectiles.
[0057] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-9, the marker 100
includes a detachable end cap 168. If the user desires to have a
rear stock, the end cap 168 may be removed and a rear stock coupled
to the receiver 104 (see FIGS. 14-16). In the example shown, pins
170 pass through projections 172 (see FIGS. 2 and 13) in the end
cap 168 and holes in the receiver 104 and grip assembly 146.
Removal of the pins 170 allows the user to detach the end cap 168
from the receiver 104. In the example shown, the end cap 168
includes an optional ring 174 that user may grasp to remove the end
cap 168. As discussed below, a plurality of interchangeable rear
stocks may be substituted for the end cap 168 to customize the
marker 100. Preferably, each of the rear stocks include similarly
arranged holes such that the rear stocks may be attached to the
receiver 104 using the pins 170. Examples of rear stocks that could
be used with the marker 100 are shown in FIGS. 18A-18C.
[0058] Referring now to FIG. 13, there is shown a detailed
cross-sectional view of the marker 100. As shown, a sear 188 is
interposed between the trigger 150 and a rear bolt 190. In this
example, the sear 188 is disposed on pivot pin 192 and is biased by
spring 194 toward engagement of the rear bolt 190. When the marker
100 is in the cocked position, actuation of the trigger 150
releases the rear bolt 190 from the sear 188. In the example shown,
the marker 100 is in the cocked position when the rear bolt 190 is
in a rearward position in which the sear 188 prevents forward
movement of the rear bolt 190. In the example shown, the marker 100
moves to a discharge position by releasing the rear bolt 190 from
the sear 188 due to user actuation of the trigger 150. It should be
appreciated that other trigger assemblies, both mechanical and
electrical, may be suitable to selectively fire the marker 100 and
are contemplated herein.
[0059] In the example shown, the rear bolt 190 moves under the bias
of drive spring 196 upon actuation of the trigger 150. A pin 198 is
disposed within the spring 196 in the example shown. The rear bolt
190 is coupled to a front bolt 200 via a linkage arm 202 in the
example shown. This causes concomitant movement of the front bolt
200 with the movement of the rear bolt 190. The front bolt 200 is
adapted to push a projectile into the barrel 102 during firing.
[0060] The bias of drive spring 196 on rear bolt 190 causes rear
bolt 190 to depress an impact pin 204 on the valve assembly 178,
which causes the valve assembly 178 to release a quantity of
compressed gas, thereby causing a projectile to be propelled out
the barrel 102. Another quantity of compressed gas may be released
on the side of valve assembly 178 in which the rear bolt 190 is
disposed, which will recoil the rear bolt 190 to the cocked
position. Example valve arrangements and firing mechanisms that
could be used are shown and described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,189,609,
5,722,383, and 6,550,468, which are each hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0061] In the embodiment shown, a second supply line 176 can be
seen. Preferably, the marker 100 may be configured such that either
the first supply line 124 or the second supply line 176 may supply
the valve arrangement 178 with a propellant with which the
projectiles may be fired. Preferably, the first supply line 124 or
the second supply line 176 provides compressed gas, such as carbon
dioxide or nitrogen, to the valve arrangement 178. As discussed
above, however, the supply lines 124 or 176 could provide fluid
communication with a supply of combustible fuel in some
embodiments.
[0062] In this example, the marker 100 includes a coupling 180
associated with the first supply line 124. Typically, the user
would choose between the first supply line 124 and the second
supply line 176. If the user decided to use the first supply line
124, the user would put the first supply line 124 and coupling 180
associated with the first supply line 124 into the receiver. This
would supply compressed gas to the valve arrangement 178 via the
first supply line 124. A passageway is defined in the receiver 104
for receiving the second supply line 176. Preferably, the
passageway extends from the valve arrangement to the rear portion
of the receiver 104 so that the second supply line 176 may be
aligned with a passage with a rear stock which is in fluid
communication with a supply of compressed gas. If the user desired
to use the second supply line 176, the first supply line and
associated coupling 180 would typically be removed and the second
supply line and an associated coupling 180 inserted into the
passageway. The coupling 180 provides the valve arrangement 178
with a supply of compressed gas from the first supply line in the
example shown.
[0063] In some cases, the coupling 180 may be configured to receive
both the first supply line 124 and the second supply line 176. For
example, the coupling 180 may include a first check valve (not
shown) at the inlet of the first supply line 124 into the coupling
180 and a second check valve (not shown) at the inlet of the second
supply line 176 into the coupling 180. With this arrangement, the
inlets would only be open due to the supply of compressed gas to
open a respective check valve. It should be appreciated that other
mechanisms, both mechanical and electrical, could be used to
selectively supply the valve arrangement 176 with a flow of
compressed air from either the first supply line 124 or the second
supply line 176. In some embodiments, the coupling 180 could be
configured to supply compressed air from both the first supply line
124 and the second supply line 176. In the example shown in FIG.
13, the second supply line 176 does not supply compressed gas to
the valve arrangement 178 due to the end cap 178 being connected to
the receiver 104. As discussed below, the second supply line 176
may continue flowing through the rear stock, which may be connected
with a source of compressed gas.
[0064] FIG. 14 shows an example in which a rear stock 182 has been
coupled with the receiver 104. In the example shown, the rear stock
182 includes a projection 184 with holes dimensioned to receive the
pins 170. Accordingly, a user may customize a marker 100 with a
plurality of interchangeable rear stocks that may be coupled to the
receiver 104. Examples of rear stocks that may be coupled to the
marker 100 are shown in FIGS. 18A-18C. It should be appreciated
that other types of rear stocks could also be provided.
[0065] FIGS. 15-16 show the example embodiment of FIG. 14 with the
rear stock 182 shown in sectional view. As shown, the rear stock
182 includes a passageway 186 that is in fluid communication with
the second supply line 176. The passageway 186 may be in fluid
communication with the supply of compressed gas (or other
propellant), thereby providing compressed gas to the valve
arrangement 178. In some cases, the rear stock 184 may include a
recess 205 for receiving an end of the pin 198.
[0066] FIG. 17 shows the right half of an example receiver 104.
Although the example receiver 104 shown includes holes that could
be used for quick connections of rear stocks, fore stocks, etc.,
this receiver 104 could also be used with a marker without such
customization features. In some cases, the valve assembly 178 may
be tapped to supply compressed gas for other functions associated
with the marker 100. For example, the feed mechanism 166 could be
pneumatically actuated with compressed gas tapped off the valve
assembly. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,739,323 shows a feed
mechanism that may be pneumatically actuated. By way of another
example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,550,468 shows a trigger assist that may be
pneumatically actuated. In receivers formed by two halves that are
connected together, such as the example half shown, gas that is
tapped off the valve assembly 178 tends to escape through the seam
between the halves of the receiver 104.
[0067] In the example shown, the receiver 104 includes a groove 206
dimensioned to receive a seal 208, such as an O-ring. Preferably,
the groove 206 is substantially elliptical in shape, which retains
the seal 208 without a fastener or adhesive. The groove 206 and
seal 208 are disposed within the receiver 104 preferably adjacent
the portion of the valve assembly 178 that is tapped to prevent
escape of gas through the seam in the receiver 104. As shown, a
first outlet port 210 and a second outlet port 212, which are
associated with tapped portions of the valve assembly 178, are
disposed within the groove. Additionally, outlet ports (or a single
outlet port) may be provided.
[0068] FIGS. 23-25 show another embodiment in which the valve
arrangement 178 may be supplied with a compressed gas (or other
propellant) through either a first supply line 250 or a second
supply line 252. The user may chose whether to connect the first
supply line 250 or the second supply line 252 to a source of
compressed gas. Preferably, the first supply line 250 or the second
supply line 252 provides compressed gas, such as carbon dioxide or
nitrogen, to the valve arrangement 178. As discussed above,
however, the supply lines 250 or 252 could provide fluid
communication with a supply of combustible fuel in some
embodiments.
[0069] FIGS. 23 and 24 show an embodiment in which the first supply
line 250 extends internally through the grip 148 to provide fluid
communication between the valve arrangement 178 and a source of
compressed gas (not shown). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the
compressed gas source may enter the first supply line 250 through a
tank adapter 254. For example, a canister of compressed gas, such
as carbon dioxide or nitrogen, may include external threads that
mate with internal threads 256 of the tank adapter 254. As best
seen in FIG. 24, compressed gas flows through an adapter passageway
258 defined in the tank adapter 254. The adapter passageway 258 is
in fluid communication with the first supply line 250 through a
coupling 259. Accordingly, the compressed gas flows from the
adapter passageway 258 into the first supply line 250. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 23, for example, the compressed gas flows
through a grip passageway 260. The compressed gas continues to flow
into a first segment 262, a second segment 264, and a third segment
266 to supply the compressed gas to the valve arrangement 178. With
this embodiment using an internal passageway for the first supply
line 250, the user may connect the compressed gas source to the
tank adapter 254 without the use of an external supply line, which
allows the marker to have a more realistic appearance. In the
example shown in FIG. 23, the second supply line 252 does not
supply compressed gas to the valve arrangement 178 due to the end
cap 168 being connected to the receiver 104.
[0070] FIGS. 25 and 26 show an embodiment in which the second
supply line 252 extends internally to a rearward portion of the
receiver 104 to provide fluid communication between the valve
arrangement 178 and a source of compressed gas (not shown).
Preferably, the second supply line 252 extends from the valve
arrangement 178 to the rear portion of the receiver 104. For
example, this allows the second supply line 252 to be aligned with
a passage with a rear stock which is in fluid communication with a
supply of compressed gas, similar to the arrangement shown in FIGS.
14 and 15. In the embodiment shown, the second supply line 252
includes an inlet port 268 that may be connected with a passageway
in a rear stock, which is in fluid communication with a compressed
gas source. The compressed gas continues to flow into the first
segment 262, the second segment 264, and the third segment 266 to
supply the compressed gas to the valve arrangement 178. If the user
desires to use the second supply line 252, the tank adapter 254 may
be removed, which allows the marker to have a more realistic
appearance.
[0071] Although the present disclosure has been described with
reference to particular means, materials and embodiments, from the
foregoing description, one skilled in the art can easily ascertain
the essential characteristics of the invention and various changes
and modifications may be made to adapt the various uses and
characteristics without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention.
* * * * *