U.S. patent application number 12/822420 was filed with the patent office on 2011-06-30 for loading system and method for elastic projectile.
This patent application is currently assigned to INTEGRITY BALLISTICS LLC. Invention is credited to George M. Elsom, Joseph P. Kolnik.
Application Number | 20110154978 12/822420 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39682283 |
Filed Date | 2011-06-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110154978 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kolnik; Joseph P. ; et
al. |
June 30, 2011 |
LOADING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ELASTIC PROJECTILE
Abstract
A method for forming a projectile cartridge includes positioning
a sabot within a compartment of a projectile cartridge casing. A
delivery tube is inserted within a chamber of the sabot positioned
within the casing, the delivery tube bounding a channel that passes
therethrough. A projectile comprised of an elastomeric material is
passed through the channel of the delivery tube under a pressurized
gas so that at least a portion the projectile is received within
the chamber of the sabot, the projectile being radially compressed
as it is passed through the channel of the delivery tube.
Inventors: |
Kolnik; Joseph P.; (Salt
Lake City, UT) ; Elsom; George M.; (Buffalo,
WY) |
Assignee: |
INTEGRITY BALLISTICS LLC
Boise
ID
|
Family ID: |
39682283 |
Appl. No.: |
12/822420 |
Filed: |
June 24, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11927216 |
Oct 29, 2007 |
7743709 |
|
|
12822420 |
|
|
|
|
60854993 |
Oct 28, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
86/30 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F42B 14/064 20130101;
F42B 5/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
86/30 |
International
Class: |
F42B 33/02 20060101
F42B033/02 |
Claims
1. A loading system for forming a projectile cartridge, the loading
system comprising: a delivery tube having an interior surface
bounding a channel extending between a first end and an opposing
second end, the second end of the delivery tube being configured to
be received within a chamber of a casing; means for at least
substantially sealing the first end of the delivery tube closed
after a projectile comprised of an elastomeric material is
positioned within the channel of the delivery tube; and means for
delivering a pressurized gas to the channel of the delivery tube so
that the pressurized gas can push the projectile down through
delivery tube and into the chamber of the casing when the
projectile is positioned within the delivery tube.
2. The loading system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a
support housing having an internal cavity extending between a first
end and an opposing second end, the internal cavity being
configured to receive the casing.
3. The loading system as recited in claim 2, wherein the support
housing encircles the second end of the delivery tube so that an
annular gap is formed between the support housing and the delivery
tube.
4. The loading system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a
plunger having a distal end that is configured to be received
within the first end of the channel of the delivery tube, the
plunger being movable relative to the delivery tube.
5. The loading system as recited in claim 1, wherein the channel of
the delivery tube radially inwardly constricts along at least a
portion of the length thereof.
6. The loading system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a
stand configured to support the casing, the stand being movable
relative to the delivery tube.
7. The loading system as recited in claim 1, wherein the means for
at least substantially sealing the first end of the delivery tube
closed comprises a plate movable between a first position wherein
the plate is spaced apart from the delivery tube and a second
position wherein the plate is positioned adjacent to the first end
of the delivery tube, a seal being disposed between the plate and
the first end of the delivery tube.
8. A loading system for forming a projectile cartridge, the loading
system comprising: a delivery tube having an interior surface
bounding a channel extending between a first end and an opposing
second end, the channel radially inwardly constricting along at
least a portion of the length thereof, the second end of the
delivery tube being configured to be received within a chamber of a
casing; a plunger having a distal end, the plunger being movable
between a first position wherein the plunger is spaced apart from
the delivery tube and a second position wherein the distal end of
the plunger is received within the first end of the delivery tube;
and a pressurized gas source in communication with the first end of
the channel of the delivery tube.
9. The loading system as recited in claim 8, wherein the channel at
the first end of the delivery tube is sealed closed when the
plunger is in the second position.
10. The loading system as recited in claim 8, further comprising a
support housing having an internal cavity extending between a first
end and an opposing second end, the support housing encircling the
second end of the delivery tube so that an annular gap is formed
between the support housing and the delivery tube.
11. The loading system as recited in claim 8, further comprising a
casing for a projectile cartridge having a chamber, the second end
of the delivery tube being received within the chamber of the
casing.
12. A method for forming a projectile cartridge comprising:
positioning a sabot within a compartment of a projectile cartridge
casing; inserting a delivery tube within a chamber of the sabot
positioned within the casing, the delivery tube bounding a channel
that passes therethrough; and passing a projectile comprised of an
elastomeric material through the channel of the delivery tube so
that at least a portion the projectile is received within the
chamber of the sabot, the projectile being radially compressed as
it is passed through the channel of the delivery tube.
13. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein the step of passing
the projectile through the delivery tube comprises delivering a
pressurized gas to the channel of the delivery tube, the
pressurized gas pushing the projectile from the channel and into
the chamber of the sabot.
14. The method as recited in claim 13, further comprising sealing
an end of the channel of the delivery tube closed prior to
delivering the pressurized gas.
15. The method as recited in claim 13, wherein the step of passing
the projectile further comprises advancing a plunger into the
channel of the delivery tube so that the plunger pushes the
projectile through a portion of the delivery tube prior to
delivering the pressurized gas.
16. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein as the projectile is
received within the chamber of the sabot, a portion of the gas
within the chamber of the sabot passes out of the chamber through a
hole in a floor of the sabot and travels along the length of the
sabot by passing through a recess channel formed along the length
of an exterior surface of the sabot.
17. The method as recited in claim 12, further comprising inserting
a gas seal wad within the compartment of the casing prior to
inserting the sabot into the compartment of the casing.
18. The method as recited in claim 12, further comprising
positioning the casing within an internal cavity of a support
housing prior to passing the projectile through the channel of the
delivery tube.
19. The method as recited in claim 12, further comprising removing
the delivery tube from within a chamber of the sabot while
simultaneously maintaining gas pressure on the projectile within
the chamber of the sabot.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a divisional of U.S. application
Ser. No. 11/927,216, filed Oct. 29, 2007, which claims priority to
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/854,993, filed Oct. 28,
2006, which are incorporated herein by specific reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. The Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to sabots used with
elastomeric projectiles, projectile cartridges containing an
elastomeric projectile, and methods and systems for making
projectile cartridges containing an elastomeric projectile.
[0004] 2. The Relevant Technology
[0005] Sabots are commonly used within shotgun shells and some
rigid bullet cartridges to provide a gas seal between the exploding
propellant and the projectile and to stabilize the projectile
during the firing process. A typical sabot used in shotgun shells
comprises a tubular sleeve that bounds a compartment and has a
floor formed at one end thereof. Spaced apart, longitudinal slits
are formed on the sleeve at the end opposite the floor so as to
form a plurality of leaves. The sabot is positioned within the
outer shell above the exploding propellant and the projectile or
shot is positioned within the compartment of sabot. When the shell
is fired, the projectile and sabot concurrently travel down the
length of the shotgun barrel. As the sabot exits the barrel, the
leaves on the sabot radially, outwardly expand causing the sabot to
slow and separate from the projectile. Sabots have been used for
single body projectiles such as slugs, bullets and fin stabilized
darts or rockets. In these alternative embodiments, the sabots can
either separate from the projectile directly after exiting the
barrel or become part of the projectile to increase the desired
aerodynamic properties.
[0006] Although conventional sabots are useful in the launching of
standard projectiles as discussed above, conventional sabots are
not designed for use with elastomeric projectiles. Elastomeric,
non-lethal projectiles are projectiles made from a flexible,
elastomeric material that expands on impact to debilitate a
recipient but not produce terminal injury. However, due to the
unique properties of elastomeric projectiles, such projectiles can
be difficult to load into conventional sabots and conventional
sabots can impede the discharge or trajectory of such
projectiles.
[0007] Furthermore, the prior art encompasses numerous methods and
machines for loading projectiles. However, such prior art methods
and machines are not designed for loading very elastic projectiles
of high surface friction where the diameter of the projectile is
larger than the diameter of the shell into which it is being
loaded.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] Various embodiments of the present invention will now be
discussed with reference to the appended drawings. It is
appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of
the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of
its scope.
[0009] FIG. 1 is a cross sectional side view of one embodiment of a
projectile cartridge incorporating features of the present
invention;
[0010] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the projectile
cartridge shown in FIG. 1;
[0011] FIG. 3A is a cross sectional side view of a projectile shown
in FIG. 2 having no voids;
[0012] FIG. 3B is a cross sectional side view of an alternative
embodiment of a projectile having a center void;
[0013] FIG. 3C is a cross sectional side view of an alternative
embodiment of a projectile having a foamed core;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of the projectile shown
in FIG. 2 hitting a target;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a gas seal wad shown in
FIG. 2;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of a gas seal wad shown
in FIG. 5;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the sabot shown in FIG. 2 in an
expanded position;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a bottom plan view of the sabot shown in FIG.
7;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one petal of the sabot shown
in FIGS. 7 and 8;
[0020] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the sabot shown in FIG.
7 and 8 in a collapsed position;
[0021] FIG. 11 is a side perspective view of the sabot shown in
FIG. 10;
[0022] FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the sabot shown in
FIG. 11;
[0023] FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of an alternative
embodiment of a sabot having only two petals;
[0024] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a sabot having three petals;
[0025] FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the sabot shown in
FIG. 14;
[0026] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a loading system used in
the assembly of the cartridge shown in FIG. 1;
[0027] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the
loading system shown in FIG. 16;
[0028] FIG. 18 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the
loading system shown in FIG. 16 having the casing and sabot
positioned within the loading system and the projectile being
advanced within the loading system;
[0029] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the loading system shown in
FIG. 16 in a closed position;
[0030] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional side view of the loading system
shown in FIG. 18 wherein the plunger is fully advanced within the
loading system;
[0031] FIG. 21 is a cross sectional side view of the loading system
shown in FIG. 20 wherein a pressurized gas is used to advance the
projectile into the sabot; and
[0032] FIG. 22 is a cross sectional side view of the loading system
shown in FIG. 21 wherein the projectile is fully loaded within the
sabot.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0033] Depicted in FIG. 1 is one embodiment of a projectile
cartridge 10 incorporating features of the present invention. By
way of a general overview, as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, cartridge
10 comprises a casing 12 such as that used in a conventional
shotgun cartridge. Casing 12 includes a tubular sleeve 30 having a
base 32 mounted on one end thereof. Base 32 holds a primer 42 that
ignites a charge 44 upon detonation, as is well known. Positioned
within casing 12 is an expandable sabot 16 that houses a projectile
18. A gas seal wad 14 is disposed between sabot 16 and charge 44
while an overshot card 20 is disposed on top of sabot 16. Finally,
the free end of casing 12 is crimped over the top of overshot card
20.
[0034] Upon ignition of charge 44 by primer 42, the expanding gas
produced by charge 44 pushes against gas seal wad 14 which in turn
drives sabot 16 and enclosed projectile 18 out of casing 12 and
down the length of the gun barrel. Once sabot 16 and enclosed
projectile 18 exits the end of the gun barrel, sabot 16 openly
expands casing separation between projectile 18 and sabot 16.
Projectile 18 then freely travels to the final target.
[0035] With regard to projectile 18, in one embodiment projectile
18 comprises a non-lethal projectile having a substantially
spherical shape with a diameter larger than the width of casing 12.
Projectile 18 is capable of striking a target with a large amount
of kinetic energy while maintaining a low pressure spike.
Projectile 18 can accomplishes this feat in two ways. First,
projectile 18 is made of a sufficiently resilient material as to
deform upon impact. The deformation happens along the radius of
projectile 18, which becomes larger and flatter, thus reducing the
imparted force per unit area. Second, projectile 18 absorbs a
quantified amount of energy within its molecular structure while
accommodating this new deformed state. As used herein, the term
"pressure spike" refers to pressure plotted over time. Thus, with a
lower pressure spike, the energy is distributed over a greater
period of time than with a high pressure spike.
[0036] Projectile 18 is typically comprised of a low durometer
polymeric material, or a combination of a low durometer polymeric
material and a relatively higher durometer polymeric material, and
a heavy-metal powder that is homogeneously dispersed therein. In
one embodiment, the low durometer material is a thermoplastic
elastomer (TPE) with a density ranging from 0.86 to 0.90 grams per
cubic centimeter, and the metal powder is tungsten, which has a
specific gravity (S.G.) of 19.3. Optionally, natural rubber can be
added to the TPE to increase resiliency. In alternative
embodiments, the TPE can have a density ranging from about 0.8
grams per cubic centimeter to about 1.2 grams per cubic centimeter
with about 0.80 grams per cubic centimeter to about 0.90 grams per
cubic centimeter being more common. Other densities can also be
used. The TPE typically has a durometer in a range between about 30
Shore 00 to about 30 Shore A with about 30 Shore 00 to about 15
Shore A being more common. Other values can also be used. Other
metal powders that can be used are rhenium (S.G. 21), lead (S.G.
11.35), bismuth (S.G. 9.781), copper (S.G. 8.94), nickel (S.G.
8.9), iron (S.G. 7.87), and zinc (S.G. 7.13). Tungsten is a
desirable metal because of its relatively high specific gravity; if
tungsten were not used, the volumetric ratio of metal powder to TPE
would increase, which in turn could compromise the strength of the
composite material. In one embodiment, the particle size of the
tungsten is in a range from about 50 microns to about 250 microns.
Other particles sizes can also be used. Although the specific
gravity of rhenium is greater than that of tungsten, the price of
rhenium is currently prohibitive for its use in the present
invention.
[0037] Alternatively, instead of using only a single low durometer
material, the projectile of the present invention may be comprised
of a low durometer material combined with a relatively higher
durometer material. In this embodiment, the metal powder is evenly
distributed throughout the relatively higher durometer material,
which in turn is then combined with the lower durometer material to
form projectile 18. The relatively higher durometer material may be
a natural rubber, a polyurethane, or a thermoplastic elastomer with
a durometer preferably in the range of 0 Shore A to 80 Shore A.
[0038] One common material hardness or durometer for the composite
material is less than 30 Shore A or less than 15 Shore A or in a
range from about 30 Shore 00 to about 30 Shore A with about 30
Shore 00 to about 15 Shore A being more common. Other values can
also be used. One common density of the composite material is from
about 1.5 grams per cubic centimeter to about 9.5 grams per cubic
centimeter with about 1.5 grams per cubic centimeter to about 5.0
grams per cubic centimeter being more common. Other vales can also
be used. The weight of the projectile is typically in the range of
about 15 grams to about 100 grams with about 15 grams to about 50
grams being more common. Common diameters for projectile 18 are
typically in a range of about 10 mm to about 40 mm with about 15 mm
to about 30 mm being more common. One common TPE for the low
durometer material (whether used with or without the relatively
higher durometer material) is styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene
(SEBS) base polymer, but other TPE variations or elastomers can be
used as long as they posses the desired durometer.
[0039] In a first embodiment depicted in FIG. 3A, a projectile 18A
has a spherical configuration and no internal voids (other than
those that may be inadvertently created during the manufacturing
process). In a second embodiment depicted in FIG. 3B, a projectile
18B is shown comprising a spherical body 22 having a void 24 with a
substantially spherical configuration that is located in the center
of spherical body 22 and that is filled with a gas such as air. In
FIG. 3B, D.sub.P is the diameter of the projectile and D.sub.V is
the diameter of spherical void 24. In alternative embodiments, void
24 need not be spherical but can have alternative shapes. In a
third embodiment depicted in FIG. 3C, a projectile 18C is shown
comprising spherical body 22 and having a foamed core 26 comprised
of a multitude of smaller voids in the center of body 22. Foamed
core 26 can be created by a foaming agent such as HYDROCEROL.RTM.
861 manufactured by Clariant Corporation. One purpose of void 24
and foamed core 26 is to facilitate loading projectile 18 into
sabot 16 by making it easier to compress projectile 18.
[0040] The diameter D.sub.P of projectile 18 is typically about 20
percent to about 100 percent larger than the diameter D.sub.C of
casing 12 (FIG. 1) in which projectile 18 resides. Therefore, the
material of which projectile 18 is made is sufficiently flexible to
be deformed so as to be placed within the cylindrical chamber of
casing 12 yet sufficiently resilient to rebound to its original
undeformed shape after separation from casing 12. In the second and
third embodiments, the maximum diameter D.sub.V of the void 24 or
foamed core 26 is typically in a range of about 20 percent to about
50 percent of the diameter D.sub.P of the corresponding
projectile.
[0041] Projectile 18 typically has a spherical configuration so
that no specific orientation is required during loading or
discharge. In alternative embodiments, however, projectile 18 can
have alternative configurations such as a bullet shape or oblong
configuration.
[0042] With reference to FIG. 4, when projectile 18 is discharged
from cartridge 10 and impacts against a target 28, projectile 18
flattens against target 28, thus making the diameter DF of the
flattened projectile 18 greater than the original diameter DP of
projectile 18. This flattening effect serves to spread the force
over a larger area and reduce the maximum induced pressure spike.
At relatively close range, projectile 18 has high velocity and,
therefore, more kinetic energy, which results in greater flattening
of projectile 18 and lessening of the impact. This lessened impact
prevents penetration of the target and consequent injury. At longer
range, the flattening of projectile 18 is not as great due to the
reduced velocity and less kinetic energy upon impact. As a result
of the unique construction of the projectile of the present
invention, the risk of injury at close range is greatly reduced,
but projectile 18 is nevertheless accurate and effective over
longer ranges. Again, due to its resilient nature, projectile 18
will typically rebound to substantially its original spherical
configuration after it impacts a target.
[0043] For most applications, the desired energy level for
projectile 18 upon exit from the gun barrel will be in the range of
120 to 200 joules. In applications where projectile 18 is intended
to be considered "non-lethal," projectile 18 must not leave a hole
deeper than 44 millimeters in calibrated ballistic clay as per
current standards. In one example of the present invention,
projectile 18 exits a gun barrel with an average of 166.17 joules
and penetrates average calibrated ballistic clay to a depth of 41
millimeters. However, it is appreciated that projectile 18 can be
used in a variety of different situations where projectile 18 may
not be considered non-lethal. For example, large diameter
projectiles 18 can be used for breaking down a door or for
otherwise providing a large, blunt force against an inanimate
object. In such cases, projectile 18 can be propelled at
significantly higher levels of energy.
[0044] Returning to FIGS. 1 and 2, the remainder of cartridge 10
will now be discussed with greater detail. As previously discussed,
casing 12 comprises a tubular sleeve 30 having a base 32 mounted on
the end thereof. In one embodiment, casing 12 can comprise a
conventional shotgun shell casing such as those used for a 4-10
gauge, 20-20 gauge, 10 gauge, 12 gauge, or other standard or
specialty sized shotgun. Casing 12 can also be specially designed
having a larger or smaller configuration.
[0045] Tubular sleeve 30 has an interior surface 34 that extends
between a first end 36 and an opposing second end 38. Interior
surface 34 bounds a substantially cylindrical chamber 40. Sleeve 30
can be comprised of plastic, metal, paper, or the like, such as
those used in conventional shotgun shell casings. In one
embodiment, sleeve 30 can have a length in a range between about 4
cm to about 8 cm with a diameter in a range between about 1 cm to
about 4 cm. Other dimensions can also be used. Base 32 is mounted
on second end 38 of sleeve 30 so as to close the opening of sleeve
30 thereat and is typically comprised of brass, steel or other
suitable material. Primer 42 can comprise primers used in
conventional shotgun shell casings and is centrally mounted on base
32 so as to extend therethrough. Positioned adjacent to base 32
within chamber 40 is charge 44 that is typically comprised of gun
powder.
[0046] During assembly of cartridge 10, gas seal wad 14 is
positioned within chamber 40 of casing 12 adjacent to charge 44.
Part of the function of gas seal wad 14 is to contain the expanding
gas from charge 44 behind gas seal wad 14 so as to maximize the
drive force on wad 14, sabot 16 and projectile 18. As depicted in
FIGS. 5 and 6, gas seal wad 14 has a generally cylindrical
configuration and comprises a top surface 48, an opposing bottom
surface 50, and an encircling side wall 52 extending therebetween.
Top surface 48 has a recessed pocket 54 formed thereon. Pocket 54
comprises a central floor 56 and a substantially frustoconical ring
58 that tapers up and away from central floor 56 to a perimeter
edge 60. A plurality of radially spaced apart channels 62 are
recessed on ring 58 and radially extend out from central floor 56
to perimeter edge 60. As will be discussed later in greater detail,
channels 62 function as pathways for the removal of gas from within
chamber 40. In alternative embodiments, it is appreciated that
channels 62 can extend into or across floor 56.
[0047] As depicted in FIG. 6, bottom surface 50 also has a recessed
pocket 64 formed thereon. Pocket 64 includes central floor 56, as
discussed above, and a substantially frustoconical annular lip 68
that encircles floor 56 and that projects out and away from floor
56 to a perimeter edge 70. Sidewall 52 has an annular groove 53
recessed thereon that encircles gas seal wad 14 and extends between
opposing perimeter edges 60 and 70. During operation, when charge
44 is discharged, the expanding gas therefrom causes annular lip 68
to radially outwardly expand so as to seal against the interior
surface of the gun barrel as gas seal wad 14 travels the length of
the gun barrel. This seal between wad 14 and the gun barrel helps
to optimize propulsion of projectile 18. Annular groove 53 formed
on sidewall 52 minimizes frictional engagement between gas seal wad
14 and the interior surface of the gun barrel. That is, as a result
of annular groove 53 only annular lip 68 of gas seal wad 14 engages
the interior surface of the gun barrel. Annular groove 53 also
helps to increase the flexibility of annular lip 68. Gas seal wad
14 is typically made from a polymeric material but other flexible
materials can also be used.
[0048] Returning to FIGS. 1 and 2, positioned on top of gas seal
wad 14 within chamber 40 of casing 12 is sabot 16. As depicted in
FIGS. 7 and 8, sabot 16 comprises a base 80 and a plurality of
petals 82 hingedly connected thereto. In the embodiment depicted,
the plurality of petals 82 comprise three petals 82A, 82B, and 82C.
In alternative embodiments the sabot can comprise two or four or
more petals. As perhaps better depicted in FIG. 9, petal 82A
comprises an elongated sidewall portion 84 and a floor portion 86
projecting therefrom. Sidewall portion 84 has an arched interior
surface 88 and a complimentary arched exterior surface 90 each
extending between a first end 92 and an opposing second end 94.
Both of interior surface 88 and exterior surface 90 laterally
extend between opposing side edges 96 and 98 that both extend along
the length of sidewall portion 84. Outwardly projecting from each
side edge 96 and 98 along the length thereof is a lip 100.
[0049] Floor portion 86 projects from interior surface 88 at second
end 94 of sidewall portion 84. Floor portion 86 includes an
interior surface 106 and an opposing exterior surface 108 that each
extend between an inside edge 110 and an opposing mounting edge
112. Inside edge 110 is curved and laterally extends along interior
surface 88 of sidewall portion 84 between side edges 96 and 98.
Floor portion 86 inwardly projects from sidewall portion 84 so as
to form an inside angle .theta. between interior surface 88 of
sidewall portion 84 and interior surface 106 of floor portion 86
that is less than 160.degree. and is typically in a range between
about 90.degree. to about 160.degree.. In the depicted embodiment,
floor portion 86 slopes down and away from sidewall portion 84 so
that inside angle .theta. is more commonly in a range between about
110.degree. and 160.degree.. Other angles and ranges can also be
used.
[0050] Petals 82B and 82C are substantially identical to petal 82A
except that in contrast to having lips 100 outwardly projecting
from side edges 96 and 98, petal 82B includes lip 100 projecting
from side edge 96 and a complimentary recess 102 (FIG. 8) that is
formed on the exterior surface of side edge 98 along the length
thereof. Similarly, petal 82C does not include a lip 100 but rather
includes two recesses 102 formed along the exterior surface of side
edges 96 and 98.
[0051] Base 80 has a substantially triangular configuration with
three linear side edges 104A, 104B and 104C. Mounting edge 112 of
each petal 82 is pivotably connected to a corresponding side edge
104 of base 80. In one embodiment, each mounting edge 112 is
mounted to a corresponding side edge 104 of base 80 by a living
hinge 105. In this embodiment, base 60 and each of petals 82 are
integrally molded as a unitary member from a polymeric or other
suitable material. As a result of the hinged connection between
base 80 and the petals 82, sabot 16 can be selectively moved
between a collapsed position as shown in FIGS. 10-12 and an
expanded position as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. In an alternative
design, each mounting edge 112 can be connected to a corresponding
side edge 104 by a spot or thin wall connection that will tear or
otherwise fail after being bent only a few times such as, for
example, less than 10 time or less than 5 times. In this
embodiment, one or more of the connections between each mounting
edge 112 and a corresponding side edge 104 can be designed to fail
as the sabot 16 is discharged from casing 12.
[0052] In the collapsed position as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, each
of petals 82 combine so that the sidewall portions 84 form a
substantially cylindrical sidewall 124 that bounds a compartment
126. As petals 82 are moved into the collapsed position, each lip
100 formed on a side edge of a petal 82 is received within or
overlaps a recess 102 formed on a side edge of an adjacent petal
82. As a result of the overlapping between the lips 100 and
recesses 102, sidewall 124 continuously encircles compartment 126
in that there are no exposed openings extending through sidewall
124 when sabot 16 is in the collapsed position.
[0053] As previously discussed, projectile 18 remains within
compartment 126 of sabot 16 as projectile 18 and sabot 16 travel
along the length of the gun barrel. Due to the flexible nature of
projectile 18, projectile 18 seeks to compress along the axis of
the gun barrel and radially outwardly expand orthogonal thereto as
projectile 18 accelerates within the gun barrel. Due to this radial
expansion, if there are any openings formed through sidewall 124 of
sabot 16, projectile 18 will expand out through the opening and rub
along the interior surface of the gun barrel. Engagement between
projectile 18 and the interior surface of the gun barrel causes a
portion of projectile 18 to rub off onto the interior surface of
the gun barrel which in turn gums up the interior surface of the
gun barrel. Such deposit of projectile 18 on the interior surface
of the gun barrel either prevents or hampers further discharge of
projectiles out of the gun barrel until the gun barrel is
cleaned.
[0054] As also depicted in FIGS. 10-12, when petals 82 are in the
collapsed position so that each lip 100 is received within a
corresponding recess 102, a gap 130 is formed between a terminal
end face 132 each lip 100 and an inside edge 134 of the
correspondence recess 102. This gap 130 forms an elongated channel
136 that extends the entire length of sidewall 124. As will be
discussed below in greater detail, channels 136 are used in the
removal of gas from casing 12 during the loading of projectile 18
within sabot 16. In contrast to having elongated channels 136 that
are formed at the intersection of lips 100 and recesses 102,
elongated recessed channels 136 can be formed along the length of
sidewall portions 84 at any lateral location between opposing side
edges 96 and 98.
[0055] As depicted in FIGS. 11 and 12, base 80 and floor portions
86A, 86B, and 86C combine to form a floor 138 having a
substantially circular, dome shaped configuration that outwardly
projects away from compartment 126. Floor portions 86A-C are formed
so that openings 144 are formed between adjacent petals 86 and that
extend through floor 138 so as to communicate with compartment 126.
Again, as will be discussed below with greater detail, openings 144
are used in the removal of gas from casing 12 during the loading of
projectile 18 within sabot 16.
[0056] Floor 138 has a configuration substantially complementary to
recessed pocket 54 on top surface 48 of gas seal wad 14 (FIG. 5).
When disposed within casing 12, floor 138 of sabot 16 is received
within pocket 54 of gas seal wad 14. As a result of this
complementary nesting between floor 138 and pocket 54,
frustoconical ring 58 of gas seal wad 14 provides lateral support
for floor 138 and the living hinges 105 formed thereon. That is, as
discussed above, during acceleration of projectile 18 within the
gun barrel, projectile 18 seeks to radially, outwardly expand. If
left unchecked, such expansion can cause expansion of floor 138 of
sabot 16 which in turn can cause stretching and failure of the
living hinges 105 and thus separation of petals 82. Such
deterioration of sabot 16 within the gun barrel can have a negative
impact on the trajectory of projectile 18. To prevent unwanted
expansion of floor 138, gas seal wad 14 is provided with
frustoconical ring 58 which encircles and laterally supports floor
138 and thus prevents or limits unwanted expansion of floor
138.
[0057] Sabot 16 is originally molded in the expanded position as
depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8 and then manually moved to the collapsed
position for loading into casing 12. As sabot 16 and projectile 18
exit from the gun barrel, sabot 16 resiliently expands back toward
the expanded position due to energy stored in the living hinges
105. This expansion of sabot 16 is further assisted by the
unrestrained, radial expansion of projectile 18 and as it
resiliently returns to its original, uncompressed state. As soon as
petals 82 start to expand, the air catches petals 82 causing sabot
16 to instantly move to its expanded position which in turn slows
sabot 16 and causes separation between sabot 16 and projectile
18.
[0058] The above configuration for sabot 16 has a number of
advantages over conventional sabots. For example, because living
hinges 105 about which petals 82A-C pivot are formed on floor 138.
The entire length of petals 82A-C are able to fold away from
projectile 18 to facilitate ease in separation between sabot 16 and
projectile 18. This is in contrast to many conventional sabots
where the petals only fold back at the upper end of the sabot and a
significant portion of the projectile remains with the compartment
of the sabot. Furthermore, unlike conventional sabots where open
slots are formed on the sidewall of the sabot, the sidewall of
sabot 16 is closed when in the collapsed position so that
projectile 18 cannot expand out through the sidewall. In addition,
unlike conventional sabots, sabot 16 enables gas to pass through
the floor of the sabot and to travel up the full length of the
exterior surface of the sabot so that gas can be removed from the
compartment of sabot 16 during loading of projectile 18.
[0059] As also depicted in FIGS. 10-12, a plurality of
longitudinally spaced apart ribs 140 radially outwardly project
from the exterior surface 90 of each petal 82 and laterally extend
between opposing side edges 96 and 98. Ribs 140 can serve a variety
of different functions. For example, as previously discussed, as
sabot 16 and projectile 18 travel down the length of the gun
barrel, expanding projectile 18 pushes the sidewall of sabot 16
against the interior surface of the gun barrel. By having ribs 140,
only the spaced apart ribs 140 ride against the interior surface of
the gun barrel. Ribs 140 thus decrease the frictional engagement
between sabot 16 and the interior surface of the gun barrel. Ribs
140 can also assist in cleaning the interior surface of the gun
barrel. That is, as sabot 16 travels the length of the gun barrel,
ribs 140 scrap against the interior surface of the gun barrel which
scraping removes deposits and collects them between adjacent ribs
140.
[0060] As a further function, most gun barrels have rifling which
comprises small, helically grooves that extend the length of the
gun barrel. The rifling causes the projectile to spin as it travels
the length of the gun barrel. Spinning of the projectile improves
the consistency and accuracy of the projectile trajectory. As ribs
140 engage the rifling of the gun barrel, sabot 16 rotates within
the gun barrel which in turn causes the rotation of projectile 18.
Outwardly projecting ribs 140 can more easily engage the rifling
than a sabot with a smooth exterior surface. As such, ribs 140
improve spin and trajectory of projectile 18. In alternative
embodiments it is appreciated that ribs 140 need not laterally
extend along petals 82 but can alternatively or in combination
extend longitudinally along the length of petals 82 or at any
desired angle. Furthermore, ribs 140 can be replaced with other
forms of projections such as domed or other shaped points that are
spaced apart and formed on the exterior surface of each petal
82.
[0061] As sabot 16 travels along the length of the gun barrel,
friction between the gun barrel and sabot 16 causes sabot 16 to
decelerate within the gun barrel. As sabot 16 decelerates,
projectile 18 within sabot 16 tries to separate from sabot 16 while
it is still within the gun barrel. Early separation of projectile
18 from sabot 16 within the gun barrel can cause projectile 18 to
rube against the interior surface of the gun barrel as discussed
above and can also significantly affect the trajectory of
projectile 18. Accordingly, in one embodiment of the present
invention, means are provided on the interior surface of petals
82A-C for engaging projectile 18 when projectile 18 is disposed
within chamber 126 of sabot 16. By way of example and not by
limitation, as depicted in FIG. 9, ribs 142 project from interior
surface 88 of each petal 82. Ribs 142 are longitudinally spaced
apart and extend laterally between opposing side edges 96 and 98.
Ribs 142 engage projectile 18 and prevent unwanted separation
between sabot 16 and projectile 18 within the gun barrel.
[0062] In alternative embodiments of the means for engaging
projectile 18, it is again appreciated that ribs 142 can be
replaced with a variety of different shapes and layouts of
projections that extend from interior surface 88 of each petal 82
so as to engage projectile 18. For example, ribs 142 can be
replaced with spikes or a variety of other circular, polygonal, or
irregular projections extending from interior surface 88 of each
petal 82. Furthermore, to help ensure that projectile 18 spins
concurrently with sabot 16 within the gun barrel and does not
merely slip within sabot 16, ribs or other forms of projections can
be formed on interior surface 88 of petals 82 that extend
longitudinally along the length of petals 82. Other shapes and
configurations of projections can also be used.
[0063] Sabot 16 is typically made of a material that is flexible,
strong, and has a low coefficient of friction so as to not leave
residue within the gun barrel. Preferred materials include
polymeric materials such as polyethylene or nylon, although other
materials can also be used.
[0064] Depicted in FIG. 13 is an alternative embodiment of a sabot
16A incorporating features of the present invention. Like elements
between sabots 16 and 16A are identified by like reference
characters. In contrast to sabot 16 which has three distinct petals
82A-C, sabot 16A comprises only two petals 150A and 150B. Each
petal 150 includes a sidewall portion 152 and a floor portions 154.
Sidewall portions 152 are similar to sidewall portions 84 (FIG. 9)
except that sidewall portions 152 have a substantially semicircular
configuration in that there are only two petals 150A and 150B.
Furthermore, floor portions 154 can have a configuration similar to
floor portions 86 (FIG. 9) which can be directly connected together
by a living hinge or which can both connect on opposing sides of a
base by a living hinge. However, in contrast to sabot 16 which is
formed as an integral member, sabot 16A is made from two separately
formed petals 150A and 150B. Each floor portion 154 has a tab 156
projecting therefrom with a catch 158 formed on the end thereof. A
notch 160 is also formed on the opposing side of each floor portion
154. When petals 152A-B are coupled together, each catch 158 is
received within a corresponding notch 160 on the adjacent petal to
help secure and align the coupling between petals 152A-B. As sabot
16A exits from the gun barrel, petals 150A and 150B can both
pivotably separate at floor portions 154 and can also physically
separate to help release projectile 18 from within sabot 16A. The
above discussion with regard to ribs 140, ribs 142, lips 100 and
recesses 102 and the alternatives thereof are also applicable to
sabot 16A.
[0065] Turning to FIGS. 14 and 15 is another alternative embodiment
of a sabot 16B incorporating features of the present invention.
Similar to sabot 16, sabot 16B includes three petals 164A-C wherein
each petal 164 includes a sidewall portion 166 and a floor portion
168 that inwardly projects from the second end of sidewall portion
166. This embodiment, however, includes an enlarged base 170 that
includes three tabs 172A-C that are received within corresponding
notches 174 formed on each floor portion 168. Each tab 172 is
connected to a corresponding floor portion 168 by a living hinge
176. In contracts to having openings 144 which are formed between
floor portions 86 (FIG. 12), base 170 has an enlarged central
opening 178 extending therethrough. Again, other elements as
previously discussed with regard to sabot 16 are also relevant to
sabot 16B. In still other embodiments, it is appreciated that
sabots of the present invention can include four or more
petals.
[0066] Depicted in FIG. 16 is one embodiment of a loading system
190 for use in positioning projectile 18 within sabot 16 when sabot
16 is disposed within casing 12. In general, loading system 190
comprises an upper frame 192, a lower frame 194, and three spaced
apart guide rails 196 extending therebetween. A lower plate 198 is
slidably mounted on guide rails 196 adjacent to lower frame 194. A
stand 200 is mounted on lower plate 198 and a socket 202 is formed
on the top surface of stand 200. Socket 202 is configured to
receive base 32 of casing 12 as depicted in FIG. 2. Means are
provided for selectively raising and lowering stand 200 along guide
rails 196. By way of example and not by limitation, a pneumatic
cylinder 204 is provided with a shaft 206 that can selectively
raise and lower the lower plate 198 with stand 200 thereon. In
alternative examples of the means, pneumatic cylinder 204 can be
replaced by a hydraulic jack, mechanical jack, or any other
conventional lifting system known in the art.
[0067] An upper plate 210 is slidably mounted on guide rails 196
adjacent to upper frame 192. A plunger 212 is mounted on upper
plate 210 and downwardly projects therefrom. Again, means are
provided for selectively raising and lower plunger 212 along guide
rails 196. One example of such means includes pneumatic cylinder
214 having a shaft 216 that can selectively raise and lower upper
plate 210 with plunger 212 mounted thereon. Alternative examples
for pneumatic cylinder 204 are also applicable to pneumatic
cylinder 214.
[0068] Loading system 190 further includes a central plate 220 that
is fixedly secured to guide rails 196 between upper plate 210 and
lower plate 198. Centrally mounted on central plate 220 is a
support housing 222 and a delivery tube 224. As depicted in FIGS.
17 and 22, support housing 222 comprises a tubular body 226 having
an interior surface 228 extending between a first end 230 and an
opposing second end 232. Interior surface 228 bounds a cavity 234
that longitudinally extends through body 226. As depicted in FIG.
18, cavity 234 has a substantially cylindrical configuration that
is substantially complimentary to the exterior surface of casing
12. As a result, casing 12 can be received within cavity 234 so
that casing 12 is laterally supported by interior surface 228 of
support housing 222. Cavity 234 is outwardly tapered at second end
232 to help facilitate alignment and entry of casing 12 within
cavity 234. Returning to FIG. 17, an annular flange 236 encircles
and radially outwardly projects from first end 230 of body 226.
Flange 236 is used to secure support housing 222 to central plate
220 using conventional bolts or other types of fasteners.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 17, delivery tube 224 comprises an inlet
tube 238 and a dispensing tube 240. Inlet tube 238 comprises a
tubular body 242 having an interior surface 244 extending between a
first end 246 and an opposing second end 248. Interior surface 244
bounds a channel 250 that longitudinally extends through body 242.
As illustrated in FIG. 18, channel 250 constricts as it extends
from first end 246 to second end 248. Channel 250 typically has a
diameter at first end 246 that is sufficiently large to enable
projectile 18 to be easily, manually inserted into channel 250 at
first end 246. As such, channel 250 typically has a diameter at
first end 246 that is larger than, equal to, or only slightly
smaller than the diameter of projectile 18. A flange 252 encircles
and radially outwardly projects from body 242 at second end 248.
Flange 252 is used to secure inlet tube 238 to central plate 220
using conventional methods such as bolts or other types of
fasteners.
[0070] Returning to FIG. 17, dispensing tube 240 includes a tubular
stem 256 having an interior surface 258 and an exterior surface 260
each extending between a first end 262 and an opposing second end
264. Interior surface 258 also bounds a channel 266 that
longitudinally extends through stem 256. As depicted in FIG. 18,
channel 266 constricts at first end 262 but then has a
substantially constant diameter along second end 264. A flange 268
encircles and radially projects from first end 262 of stem 256.
Flange 268 is seated within a counter sunk recess formed at first
end 230 of support housing 222 so that stem 256 is received within
cavity 234 of support housing 222.
[0071] In the assembled configuration, channel 250 of inlet tube
238 couples with channel 266 of dispensing tube 240 so as to form a
continuous channel 270 that extends from first end 246 of delivery
tube 224 to second end 264 of delivery tube 224. During use
projectile 18 can be passed down through continuous channel 270 for
delivery of projectile 18 into cavity 234 of support housing 222.
As perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 22, channel 270 tapers down in
spaced apart sections. Although channel 270 can be formed having a
continuous, gradual taper between opposing ends of delivery tube
224, it has been found that by staggering the tapered sections
along channel 270, less energy is needed for constricting and
passing projectile 18 down channel 270.
[0072] To facilitate loading of projectile 18, gas seal wad 14 and
sabot 16 are initially positioned within chamber 40 of cartridge
10. Next, base 32 of the assembled casing 12 is seated within
socket 202 of stand 200 of loading assembly 190. As shown in FIGS.
18 and 19, pneumatic cylinder 204 is then used to elevate lower
plate 198 and stand 200 so that casing 12, gas seal wad 14, and
sabot 16 are received within cavity 234 of support housing 222. As
casing 12 is raised into cavity 234, stem 256 of delivery tube 224
is received within compartment 126 of sabot 16. In the depicted
embodiment, tubular stem 256 is configured so as to spaced a
distance above floor 138 of sabot 16.
[0073] Next, to facilitate loading of projectile 18, projectile 18
is dusted with a dry powder lubricant such as graphite,
polytetrafluoroethylene (which is sold under the trademark TEFLON),
or other conventional dry lubricants. In one embodiment, the dry
lubricant comprises a combination of graphite and TEFLON powders.
Projectile 18 is then positioned within channel 270 at first end
246 of delivery tube 224.
[0074] As depicted in FIGS. 19 and 20, once projectile 18 is
positioned, pneumatic cylinder 214 is used to progressively lower
plunger 212 into channel 270. As plunger 212 is progressively
lowered, plunger 212 pushes projectile 18 down the length of
channel 270. In so doing, because channel 270 constricts,
projectile 18 is radially inwardly compressed and thus elongated
within channel 270. As a result of being compressed within channel
270, an air tight seal is formed between projectile 18 and the
interior surface of channel 270. Plunger 212 continues to descend
until upper plate 210 is seated against first end 246 of delivery
tube 224. In the embodiment depicted, an annular seal 271 is
positioned between upper plate 210 and delivery tube 224 so as to
form a substantially air tight seal therebetween.
[0075] In one embodiment of the present invention means are
provided for at least substantially sealing the first end of
delivery tube 224 closed after projectile 18 is positioned within
channel 270. One example is such means comprises upper plate 210 in
conjunction with annular seal 217. In alternative embodiments,
plunger 212 is not required so that upper plate 210 can be replaced
with any type of stop, plug, or cover that will close off the first
end of delivery tube 224.
[0076] Plunger 212 is designed having configuration that is
generally complementary to the interior surface of delivery tube
224 but is sized slightly smaller than the interior surface of
delivery tube 224 so that when plunger 212 is fully received within
delivery tube 224, an annular gap 272 is formed between the
interior surface of delivery tube 224 and the exterior surface of
plunger 212 along the length of plunger 212. Gap 272 allows a gas
to pass therebetween.
[0077] As shown in FIG. 20 upper plate 210 is shown having an inlet
274 formed on the exterior surface of upper plate 210, an outlet
276 formed adjacent to plunger 212 so as to communicate with gap
272, and a passage 278 that extends therebetween. As shown in FIG.
19, a gas supply 280 is coupled with inlet 274 by a tube 282. Gas
supply 280 is configured to supply a pressurized stream of gas and
can comprise a compressor, a container containing pressured gas, or
other conventional systems used for delivering a pressured gas. Gas
supply 280 can typically provide a pressured gas at a pressure of
at least 100 psi (7 kg/cm ) and typically 150 psi (10.5 kg/cm ) or
higher. Other pressures can also be used. The gas typically
comprises air but other gases can also be used.
[0078] Once in the assembled state shown in FIG. 20, a stream of
pressurized gas is delivered into channel 270 from gas supply 280
(FIG. 14). The pressurized gas stream drives projectile 18 down
channel 270 and into compartment 126 of sabot 16. As projectile 18
travels down channel 270 and into compartment 126 the air within
compartment 126 exits down through floor 138 of sabot 16 by passing
through holes 144 (FIG. 12), passes out from between floor 138 and
gas seal wad 14 by traveling along channels 62 (FIG. 5) formed on
gas seal wad 14, and then passes up between the exterior surface of
sabot 16 and the interior surface of channel 270 by traveling along
channels 136 formed on the exterior surface sabot 16 (FIG. 11). But
for the gas pathway formed by holes 144, channels 62, and channels
136, the air would be trapped within compartment 126 of sabot 16,
and thereby prevent projectile 18 from entering compartment
126.
[0079] As depicted in FIG. 21, once projectile 18 is resting on
floor 138 of sabot 16, lower plate 198 is progressively lowered
while the gas pressure is maintained against projectile 18. The gas
pressure causes projectile 18 to be dispensed from the lower end of
delivery tube 224 into compartment 126 of sabot 16 until delivery
tube 224 is completely removed from compartment 126 and projectile
18 is completely disposed within compartment 126 as depicted in
FIG. 22. The above process helps ensure that projectile 18 properly
fills compartment 126 from floor 138 up.
[0080] Gas supply 280 and the examples herein of how it couples
with channel 270 are examples of means for delivering a pressurized
gas to channel 270 of delivery tube 224 so that the pressurized gas
can push projectile 18 down through delivery tube 224 and into the
chamber of the casing 12 when projectile 18 is positioned within
delivery tube 224. In alternative examples of such means, the gas
can be delivered through plunger 212 or through the side of
delivery tube 224.
[0081] Once casing 12 is removed from support housing 222, fist end
36 of casing 12 can be closed by position overshot card 20 (FIG. 1)
on top of sabot 16 and then crimping the free end of casing 12 over
the top of overshot card 20. Other techniques known in the art of
close the end of a shotgun shell can also be used.
[0082] It is appreciated that loading system 190 can be made in a
variety of different configurations and can be operated in a
variety of different manners. By way of example and not by
limitation, plunger 212 (FIG. 18) primarily functions to seat
projectile 18 within channel 270 so that when the gas pressure is
applied, projectile 18 is driven down the length channel 270. As
such, plunger 212 can be shorter or have a variety of different
configurations. In yet other embodiments, plunder 212 can be
eliminated. In this embodiment, projectile 18 is manually pressed
down into channel 270 so as to seat against the interior surface
thereof.
[0083] Furthermore, support housing 222 primary functions as a
guide for directing casing 12 as sabot 16 receives stem 256. As
such, housing 222 need not completely encircle casing 12 and, in
some embodiments, housing 222 can be eliminated. Likewise, although
loading system 190 is shown as comprising a multitude of parts that
are secured together, it is appreciated that many of the parts that
are secured together can be integrally formed as a single part or
as fewer parts than presently depicted.
[0084] Finally, the present embodiment depicts loading system 190
where central plate 220 is stationary while lower plate 198 and
upper plate 210 move relative thereto. In alternative embodiments,
different plates can be designed to move while others are held
stationary. For example. Lower plate 198 can be held stationary
while central plate 220 and upper plate 210 are lowered.
Alternatively, all three plate can be designed to move. It is
appreciated that a variety of other non-essential modification can
be made and still achieve the objective of the invention. For
example, plates 198, 210 and 220 can have a variety of different
configurations and can be used with a different number of guide
rails 196. Likewise, guide rails 196 can be eliminated whether
other centering mechanisms are used.
[0085] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
* * * * *