U.S. patent application number 15/587176 was filed with the patent office on 2017-10-19 for universal trigger locking system.
This patent application is currently assigned to JNA Innovators L.L.C.. The applicant listed for this patent is JNA Innovators L.L.C.. Invention is credited to Justin Gant, Nicholas Schmidt.
Application Number | 20170299301 15/587176 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58671265 |
Filed Date | 2017-10-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170299301 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gant; Justin ; et
al. |
October 19, 2017 |
UNIVERSAL TRIGGER LOCKING SYSTEM
Abstract
Systems for universally locking a trigger of a firearm are
provided that require authentication to transition the firearm to
an unlocked state. In general, examples of the systems for
universally locking a trigger of a firearm described herein are
located in an interchangeable grip portion of the firearm or
mounted to an accessory rail of the firearm. Embodiments of the
system generally include trigger interference or blocking members
to prevent actuation of the trigger until the authentication system
has authorized the user to fire the firearm. Once the system is
authenticated, embodiments of the system remain in an unlocked
state while the user is grasping the firearm. When the user removes
their hand from the firearm, embodiments of the trigger locking
system automatically returns to a locked state, reducing or
eliminating unauthorized use of the firearm.
Inventors: |
Gant; Justin; (Mukilteo,
WA) ; Schmidt; Nicholas; (Mukilteo, WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
JNA Innovators L.L.C. |
Mukilteo |
WA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
JNA Innovators L.L.C.
Mukilteo
WA
|
Family ID: |
58671265 |
Appl. No.: |
15/587176 |
Filed: |
May 4, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15093671 |
Apr 7, 2016 |
9651325 |
|
|
15587176 |
|
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62267530 |
Dec 15, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41C 23/10 20130101;
F41A 17/066 20130101; F41A 17/54 20130101; F41A 17/06 20130101;
F41A 17/46 20130101; F41C 23/16 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41A 17/06 20060101
F41A017/06; F41A 17/06 20060101 F41A017/06; F41A 17/46 20060101
F41A017/46; F41C 23/16 20060101 F41C023/16 |
Claims
1. A firearm trigger locking system, comprising: a grip portion
couplable to a firearm having a trigger; an authentication system
operatively associated with the grip portion, the authentication
system comprising: a central processing unit; a storage device in
communication with the central processing unit, the storage device
capable of storing an authorization key; an identification
component in communication with the central processing unit, the
identification component capable of recognizing the authorization
key; an actuator in communication with the central processing unit,
the actuator activatable by the central processing unit when the
identification component recognizes the authorization key; and a
battery in communication with the central processing unit; a
trigger interference member movable within a slot; and a block
movable by the actuator from a first position to a second position
when the identification component recognizes the authorization key,
wherein the block abuts the trigger interference member in the
first position to prevent movement of the trigger interference
member within the slot for preventing actuation of the trigger.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of application Ser. No.
15/093,671, filed Apr. 7, 2016, which claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/267,530, filed Dec. 15, 2015,
the disclosures of which are hereby expressly incorporated by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Controlling unauthorized use of a firearm is a focus of
various manufacturers of weapons and weapon accessories. Gun safes
and various locks used on the firing system of the firearm, along
with other safety devices, can prevent injury by accidental
discharge or intended use by a person the owner of the firearm does
not authorize. Systems of the type restricting use of the firearm
can be manual, often comprising basic integrated safeties or
trigger locks; or automatic, often consisting of a mixture of
electronic and mechanical components. Some systems act on the
firearm components which impact the primer of a cartridge
containing a projectile, such as a hammer or firing pin locking
system, causing ignition of the gunpowder therein. Other systems
prevent the actuation of the trigger of the firearm, thereby
disabling the use.
[0003] In the systems which prevent actuation of the trigger, a
lock is mounted on the trigger guard or integrated into the firing
mechanism and removes the primary function of the trigger,
rendering the firearm disabled. Design considerations dictate
whether the trigger is physically blocked from movement, or merely
removed from the actuation circuit such that actuation of the
trigger does not begin a firing sequence in the firearm. User
authentication provides an extra level of safety to the system,
giving the owner of the firearm more control over access.
[0004] Conventional trigger locking systems and "smart" firearms
typically require complex integration into the firearm. As a
result, the firearm is often purchased with the system installed by
the manufacturer. Integration by the manufacturer can provide the
most seamless integration; however, manufacturer integration is not
always practical for firearms which are already possessed by the
owner, or firearms that were originally designed and manufactured
without a locking system. Likewise, available aftermarket systems
can be cumbersome, unreliable, and difficult to install by a
firearm owner or retailer.
[0005] Therefore, a need exists for a trigger locking system that
can be readily installed on a variety of firearms, integrates into
the firearm without detracting from the form or function of the
firearm, and includes a mechanism that both reliably locks the
device and enables quick and repeatable access to actuation of the
trigger upon proper authentication. Embodiments of the present
disclosure are directed to fulfilling these and other needs.
SUMMARY
[0006] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify
key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to
be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject
matter.
[0007] In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure,
a firearm trigger locking system is provided. The firearm trigger
locking system generally includes a grip portion couplable to a
firearm having a trigger and an authentication system operatively
associated with the grip portion. The authentication system
generally includes a central processing unit, a storage device in
communication with the central processing unit, the storage device
capable of storing an authorization key, an identification
component in communication with the central processing unit, the
identification component capable of recognizing the authorization
key, an actuator in communication with the central processing unit,
the actuator activatable by the central processing unit when the
identification component recognizes the authorization key, and a
battery in communication with the central processing unit. The
firearm trigger locking system generally further includes a trigger
interference member movable within a slot, and a block movable by
the actuator from a first position to a second position when the
identification component recognizes the authorization key, wherein
the block may abut the trigger interference member in the first
position to prevent movement of the trigger interference member
within the slot for preventing actuation of the trigger.
[0008] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
disclosure, a firearm grip assembly with an automated
authenticating trigger locking feature is provided. The firearm
grip assembly generally includes a handle couplable to a firearm,
the handle including a firearm interface portion, and an
authentication system disposed within the handle that is capable of
transitioning a trigger of the firearm from a locked state to an
unlocked state. The authentication system generally includes a
central processing unit, a battery in communication with the
central processing unit, the battery configured to be selectively
isolated from the central processing unit by a switch an
identification component in communication with the central
processing unit, the identification component capable of
selectively authenticating a user, and an actuator in communication
with the central processing unit, the actuator activatable by the
central processing unit when the identification component
authenticates the user to transition the trigger of the firearm
from the locked state to the unlocked state. The firearm grip
assembly generally further includes a continuous firing button
disposed within the handle and movable from a first position to a
second position, wherein the continuous firing button may be
configured to activate the switch upon movement from the first
position to the second position, maintain the trigger of the
firearm in the unlocked state in the second position, and
transition the trigger of the firearm from the unlocked state to
the locked state upon movement from the second position to the
first position.
[0009] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the firearm trigger locking system may further include a continuous
firing button configured to maintain the block in the second
position while the continuous firing button remains depressed.
[0010] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the block may be movable from the second position back into the
first position when the identification component fails to recognize
the authorization key to prevent movement of the trigger
interference member within the slot for preventing actuation of the
trigger.
[0011] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the firearm trigger locking system may further include a cover
portion removably coupled to the grip portion, wherein the cover
portion may prevent access to internal components of the grip
portion.
[0012] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the cover portion may prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm
trigger locking system from the firearm.
[0013] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the firearm trigger locking system may further include a manual
override apparatus for the authentication system.
[0014] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the manual override apparatus may be selected from the group
consisting of a combination lock, a dial lock, a keyed lock, and a
security bit tool fastener.
[0015] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the identification component may be selected from the group
consisting of a radio frequency identification sensor, a
fingerprint scanner, a heartbeat signature recognition sensor, and
a retina scan identification sensor.
[0016] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the selective authentication of the firearm using radio frequency
identification may include a separate component external to the
firearm trigger locking system embedded with the authorization
key.
[0017] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the grip portion may be configured to interface a grip mounting
area of the firearm.
[0018] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the grip mounting area may be a universal mounting area of an
Assault Rifle platform firearm.
[0019] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the firearm trigger locking system may further include a status
indicator configured to provide a visible system status to the
user.
[0020] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the status indicator may provide the visible system status of one
or more of locked, unlocked, charging of the battery, RFID
authentication, enrollment mode status, manual lock override,
system fault, low battery warning, and unauthorized movement of the
firearm.
[0021] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the firearm trigger locking system may further include a global
positioning satellite (GPS) system configured to provide location
information of the firearm.
[0022] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the firearm trigger locking system may further include an
accelerometer system configured to detect an unauthorized movement
of the firearm.
[0023] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the firearm grip assembly may further include a trigger
interference member movable within a slot disposed in the firearm
interface portion, the trigger interference member configured to
abut the trigger of the firearm in the locked state to prevent
actuation of the trigger.
[0024] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the firearm grip assembly may further include a slidable block
movable by the actuator, wherein the slidable block may be
configured to abut the trigger interference member to prevent
movement of the trigger interference member in the locked
state.
[0025] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the firearm grip assembly may further include a cover portion
removably coupled to the handle, wherein the cover portion may
prevent access to internal components of the handle and
unauthorized removal of the firearm grip assembly from the
firearm.
[0026] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein,
the handle may be configured to interface a universal mounting area
of the firearm.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages
of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same
become better understood by reference to the following detailed
description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
[0028] FIG. 1 is a top front left perspective view of a firearm
with a universal trigger lock formed in accordance with one
embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the universal trigger
lock installed on the firearm;
[0029] FIG. 2 is a bottom rear left perspective view of the firearm
of FIG. 1;
[0030] FIG. 3 is a left side detail view of the firearm of FIG. 1,
showing a cutaway view of the universal trigger lock in the locked
position, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments, with the
continuous fire button depressed;
[0031] FIG. 4 is a left side detail view of the firearm of FIG. 1,
showing a cutaway view of the universal trigger lock in the armed
position, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments, with the
locking mechanism retracted, the trigger actuated, and the
continuous fire button depressed;
[0032] FIG. 5 is a left side detail view of the firearm of FIG. 1,
showing a cutaway view of the universal trigger lock returned to
the locked position, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments,
with the continuous fire button extended to a resting position;
[0033] FIG. 6 is an electrical diagram of the universal trigger
lock of FIG. 1, showing representative electrical connections;
[0034] FIG. 7 is a top front left perspective view of a firearm
with a universal trigger lock formed in accordance with another
embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the universal trigger
lock in the unlocked position;
[0035] FIG. 8 is a top front left perspective view of the firearm
of FIG. 7, showing the universal trigger lock in the locked
position in, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments;
[0036] FIG. 9 is a top front left perspective view of a pistol with
a universal trigger lock formed in accordance with another
embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the universal trigger
lock in the unlocked position; and
[0037] FIG. 10 is a top front left perspective view of the pistol
of FIG. 9, showing the universal trigger lock in the locked
position in, in accordance with the disclosed embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] The detailed description set forth below in connection with
the appended drawings, where like numerals reference like elements,
is intended as a description of various embodiments of the
disclosed subject matter and is not intended to represent the only
embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is
provided merely as an example or illustration and should not be
construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The
illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be
exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms
disclosed. Similarly, any steps described herein are
interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, in
order to achieve the same or substantially similar result.
[0039] In the following description, numerous specific details are
set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary
embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to one
skilled in the art, however, that many embodiments of the present
disclosure may be practiced without some or all of the specific
details. In some instances, well-known process steps have not been
described in detail in order to not unnecessarily obscure various
aspects of the present disclosure. Further, it will be appreciated
that embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any
combination of features described herein.
[0040] The present application may include references to
directions, such as "forward," "rearward," "front," "back,"
"upward," "downward," "right hand," "left hand," "lateral,"
"medial," "in," "out," "extended," "advanced," "retracted,"
"proximal," "distal," "central," etc. These references, and other
similar references in the present application, are only to assist
in helping describe and understand the particular embodiment and
are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these
directions or locations.
[0041] The present application may also reference quantities and
numbers. Unless specifically stated, such quantities and numbers
are not to be considered restrictive, but exemplary of the possible
quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also
in this regard, the present application may use the term
"plurality" to reference a quantity or number. In this regard, the
term "plurality" is meant to be any number that is more than one,
for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The term "about,"
"approximately," etc., means plus or minus 5% of the stated
value.
[0042] Embodiments of the present disclosure are generally directed
to systems for preventing accidental and unauthorized discharge of
a firearm. In general, examples of the systems herein are capable
of use as an additional component to an existing firearm, with or
without a manufacturer-installed safety system, or in conjunction
with the new manufacture of a firearm. In this regard, embodiments
of the present disclosure are generally capable of installation on
a firearm with minimal training or experience of the user. Further,
embodiments described herein are generally capable of removal from
the firearm without permanently altering the function of the
firearm. In addition, the embodiments described herein are
generally capable of automated authentication of the firearm upon
performing the proper comparisons with an authorization key as will
be described in greater detail below. However, in certain
embodiments, authentication is initiated by a manual action, such
as the press of a button or the command of an initialization
procedure. In this regard, embodiments include authentication
methods which can be initiated automatically upon grasping the
apparatus, or can require manual initiation.
[0043] Embodiments of the present disclosure are used to provide
authentication of the user holding the firearm prior to allowing
the trigger to actuate and fire the weapon. Although embodiments of
the present disclosure are not directed to manual locking systems
for firearms, the embodiments herein are capable of operation in
conjunction with the integrated safety of the firearm, and as such,
the FIGURES and description herein assume a safety S of the firearm
is present in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein. In
other embodiments, the embodiments disclosed herein are used on
firearms without a manual safety S. In the illustrated embodiments
of the FIGURES shown herein, the universal trigger locking system
is shown attached to a firearm of an "Assault Rifle" type (e.g., an
"AR-15," hereinafter "AR"); however, the embodiments described
herein are intended for use with any suitable firearm to prevent
accidental and unauthorized discharge.
[0044] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a firearm trigger
locking system is provided. In one embodiment, the system includes:
a grip portion couplable to a firearm having a trigger; an
authentication system operatively associated with the grip portion,
the authentication system includes: a central processing unit; a
storage device in communication with the central processing unit,
the storage device capable of storing an authorization key; an
identification component in communication with the central
processing unit, the identification component capable of
recognizing the authorization key; an actuator in communication
with the central processing unit, the actuator activatable by the
central processing unit when the identification component
recognizes the authorization key; and a battery in communication
with the central processing unit; a trigger interference member
movable within a slot; and a block movable by the actuator from a
first position to a second position when the identification
component recognizes the authorization key, wherein the block abuts
the trigger interference member in the first position to prevent
movement of the trigger interference member within the slot for
preventing actuation of the trigger.
[0045] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a firearm grip
assembly with an automated authenticating trigger locking feature
is provided. In one embodiment, the firearm grip assembly includes:
a handle couplable to a firearm, the handle including a firearm
interface portion; an authentication system disposed within the
handle that is capable of transitioning a trigger of the firearm
from a locked state to an unlocked state, the authentication system
includes: a central processing unit; a battery in communication
with the central processing unit, the battery configured to be
selectively isolated from the central processing unit by a switch
an identification component in communication with the central
processing unit, the identification component capable of
selectively authenticating a user; and an actuator in communication
with the central processing unit, the actuator activatable by the
central processing unit when the identification component
authenticates the user to transition the trigger of the firearm
from the locked state to the unlocked state; a continuous firing
button disposed within the handle and movable from a first position
to a second position, wherein the continuous firing button may be
configured to activate the switch upon movement from the first
position to the second position, maintain the trigger of the
firearm in the unlocked state in the second position, and
transition the trigger of the firearm from the unlocked state to
the locked state upon movement from the second position to the
first position.
[0046] A universal trigger locking system constructed in accordance
with one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a trigger lock assembly 100 of a
firearm FA generally includes a firearm interface portion 104
including a slot 106, the firearm interface portion 104 couplable
to a lower assembly L of the firearm FA, a grip portion 110, a
cover portion 120, a base portion 122, a fingerprint scanner 124, a
trigger interference member 130 capable of blocking actuation of a
trigger T contained within a trigger guard TG, a continuous fire
button 150, a cover portion access lock 160, and a manual
authentication component 162. The grip portion 110 also includes a
red status light emitting diode (LED) 152, a green status LED 154,
and a blue status LED 156. The trigger lock assembly 100 is
configured to interface the hand of a user of the firearm FA (not
pictured). In some embodiments, the trigger lock assembly 100
replaces the grip of the firearm FA as provided by the original
equipment manufacturer (OEM). In other embodiments, the trigger
lock assembly 100 components are integrated into the firearm FA and
do not replace the grip.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 1, the firearm interface portion 104
provides a mounting link between the lower assembly L of the
firearm FA and the grip portion 110. In the illustrated embodiment,
the firearm interface portion 104 is shown as integral to the grip
portion 110; however, in other embodiments, the firearm interface
portion 104 is a separated component from the grip portion 110. In
embodiments where the firearm interface portion 104 is separated, a
single style of grip portion 110 may be specified in conjunction
with numerous styles of firearm interface portions 104 such that
the trigger lock assembly 100 is adaptable to interface different
firearms (e.g., different styles and brands of rifles, shotguns,
handguns, etc.) through the firearm interface feature 102. In this
regard, a firearm interface feature 102 (see FIG. 3) adapts the
firearm interface portion 104 to the contours of the firearm FA on
which it is intended to mount. In embodiments where the firearm
interface portion 104 is integral to the grip portion 110, the
firearm interface feature 102 adapts the component of the firearm
interface portion 104 and the grip portion 110 to the contours of
the firearm FA on which it is intended to mount.
[0048] In some embodiments, the trigger lock assembly 100 mounts to
the firearm FA using a fastener (not shown) inserted into a
mounting bore 140 (see FIG. 3). In other embodiments, other
mounting methods are suitably used to mount the trigger lock
assembly 100 to the firearm FA. In this regard, access to remove
the trigger lock assembly 100 from the firearm FA is restricted
such that only a user with access to the cover portion 120 using
the cover portion access lock 160 can remove the trigger lock
assembly 100 from the firearm FA.
[0049] The grip portion 110 provides, among other features, a
location for a user to position a hand, as well as housing and
protection for the internal components of the of the trigger lock
assembly 100, which are described in greater detail below. The grip
portion 110 includes the cover portion 120 to give access to the
internal components and release the mounting of the trigger lock
assembly 100 from the firearm FA for removal. In the illustrated
embodiment, the cover portion 120 is integral with the base portion
122 such that both components are removed in combination. In other
embodiments, the cover portion 120 is separated from the base
portion 122 such that the base portion is not removable from the
grip portion 110. In further embodiments, the cover portion 120,
the base portion 122, and the grip portion 110 are separate
components. In some embodiments, the cover portion 120 is lockable
to restrict access to the internal components and the mounting
release, which would allow an unauthorized user to disable the
universal trigger locking system. In the illustrated embodiment,
the cover portion 120 includes a cover portion access lock 160 that
prevents removal of the cover portion 120 without a key or other
keyed tool (not shown). In other embodiments, a combination lock,
dial lock, or a security bit tool fastener is used to allow removal
of the cover portion 120. In further embodiments, the
authentication system described below is utilized to allow removal
of the cover portion 120 such that authenticating the firearm FA to
fire also allows removal of the cover portion 120.
[0050] Now turning to FIGS. 3-5, detailed views of the trigger lock
assembly 100 transitioning through various functional states are
shown in cutaway. For simplification and clarity, wiring
connections between the components depicted in FIGS. 3-5 have been
omitted. Representative wiring of the components is shown in FIG.
6; however, the wiring diagram of FIG. 6 should not be construed as
limiting the wiring layout of the universal trigger lock system of
the present disclosure. The trigger lock assembly 100 is shown with
the cover portion 120, the fingerprint scanner 124, and a
fingerprint scanner printed circuit board (PCB) 224 (see FIG. 6)
removed, and a cutaway through the approximate midsection of the
firearm interface portion 104, the grip portion 110, and the base
portion 122 to show further aspects of the embodiments of the
present disclosure.
[0051] The grip portion 110 includes a cutout or hollow area where
various components of the trigger lock assembly 100 are assembled.
The various components inside of the grip portion 110 are
components of the electronic system 200, which include a battery
210, a main PCB 216 with at least one central processing unit (CPU,
not shown), a manual lock 164 for manual override of the
authentication system, a continuous fire button switch 136, a
status LED mounting board 158, a trigger interference member block
112, a block plunger 114, a plunger sleeve 116, a plunger magnet
132, a continuous fire magnet 134, and the mounting bore 140 for
coupling of the trigger lock assembly 100 to the lower assembly L
of the firearm FA.
[0052] Referring briefly to FIG. 6, various components also
assembled in the grip portion 110, but not shown in FIGS. 3-5,
generally include the fingerprint scanner PCB 224, an electronic
actuator 246, a radio frequency identification system (RFID)
universal serial bus (USB) board 240, a USB charger 212, a
continuous fire button switch 136, resistors 220, 222, 226, 228,
250, 252, 254, and 256, a dip switch 230, a global positioning
satellite (GPS) PCB 218, a secondary PCB 242, a diode 244, and a
transistor 248. Although the various components described above are
not shown in FIGS. 3-5, the components may be mounted in the grip
portion 110 in any suitable location, including in a laminate
orientation with other flat components.
[0053] The layout shown in FIG. 6 is intended to provide one
representative example of the communication layout between
components, as included in one embodiment of the present
disclosure. In this regard, the embodiments disclosed herein, when
a component is in communication with another component, the
communication includes both wired and wireless types, and any other
suitable technology not known or later developed. In some
embodiments, the components and layout shown in FIG. 6 are altered
to adapt to different brands and models of the components, or other
specified features of the universal trigger lock system. For
example, if a fingerprint scanner using a technology other than
RFID is used, the RFID USB board 240 and associated components and
wiring may be omitted unless required by another RFID-based system.
In some embodiments, a radio-frequency (RF) type fingerprint
scanner is included in the universal trigger lock 100 for
authentication of the system. However, in other embodiments,
fingerprint scanners utilizing technology of complementary
metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) and capacitive discharge are
suitably used. In further embodiments, a purchaser of the universal
trigger lock system may specify certain features in conjunction
with the purchase of the trigger lock assembly 100. In this regard,
components are omitted or added to align with the purchaser's
specifications such that costs of components are omitted or
included when a lower or higher-content product is specified.
[0054] Now turning back to FIGS. 3-5, an authentication and unlock
sequence of the trigger lock assembly 100 is shown in the
transition from FIGS. 3 to 4. A return to locked state sequence
following authentication of the trigger lock assembly 100 is shown
in the transition from FIGS. 4 to 5. The trigger lock assembly 100
is configured for installation on a firearm FA using the firearm
interface portion 104, such that the trigger lock assembly 100
interfaces the trigger T through the trigger interference member
130 slidably positioned in the slot 106. In this respect, FIG. 3
shows the trigger T in an unactuated position which would normally
be ready-to-fire; however, the trigger T is prevented from
travelling toward the firearm interface portion 104 (thereby
actuating the firing system of the firearm FA) by direct
interference from the trigger interference member 130 within the
trigger guard TG. To allow firing of the firearm FA, the trigger
interference member 130 must be allowed to slide within the slot
106 in the firearm interface portion 104 toward the rear of the
firearm FA, allowing the actuation of the trigger T. As shown in
FIG. 3, the sliding motion of the trigger interference member 130
in the slot 106 is prevented by the trigger interference member
block 112.
[0055] The process of authentication, thereby arming the firearm
FA, will now be described in greater detail. Upon grasping the grip
portion 110 of the trigger lock assembly 100, the user compresses
the continuous fire button 150 with a palm of the user's hand, as
shown in a compressed state in FIG. 3, with a corresponding
interface and movement of the continuous fire button switch 136. In
some embodiments, the continuous fire button 150 includes a
self-return feature (e.g., a spring (not shown)) to ensure the
continuous fire button 150 is returned to an extended position
following the removal of the hand of the user, preventing further
actuation of the firing system of the firearm FA without
authentication.
[0056] With the continuous fire button 150 compressed, the plunger
magnet 132 and the continuous fire magnet 134 are aligned with the
path of the block plunger 114. In some embodiments, the depression
of the continuous fire button 150 and the interaction with the
continuous fire button switch 136 sends a signal to the electronic
system of the trigger lock assembly 100 such that it "wakes" from a
state of low power consumption. In this regard, the battery 210 can
retain a charge for longer periods of time and remain ready for use
when the firearm FA is stored unattended. In these embodiments, the
signal from the continuous fire button 150 activates the
fingerprint scanner 124 such that it is ready to read the
fingerprint of a user to commence the authentication process. In
other embodiments, a separate switch accessed on the exterior of
the trigger lock assembly 100 is used to activate and wake the
system. In further embodiments, non-mechanical methods are used to
activate the system from the low power consumption state, such as
RFID, capacitive discharge, accelerometer signals, etc.
[0057] As the user wraps fingers around the grip portion 110, the
middle finger aligns with the fingerprint scanner 124, which
performs a scan of the user's fingerprint and sends the scan to the
main PCB 216 for analysis. The main PCB 216 compares the scan with
a stored authorized user fingerprint, i.e., the authorization key.
To accomplish the authentication, the main PCB 216 suitably
includes a form of computer memory to store the information. In
some embodiments, multiple authorized fingerprints are included in
a single trigger lock assembly 100 such that, for example, all
members of a household can authenticate and arm the firearm FA. In
other embodiments, only a single fingerprint is stored for access
to the firearm FA. Still, in further embodiments, any finger of the
user is used to authenticate the system. Upon valid authentication,
the main PCB 216 sends a signal through the diode 244 to the
electronic actuator 246 drivingly connected to the block plunger
114. The retraction of the electronic actuator 246 moves the block
plunger 114, and thereby the trigger interference member block 112
out of the path of the trigger interference member 130 such that
the trigger T can be actuated.
[0058] When the block plunger 114 is moved by the electronic
actuator 246, the plunger magnet 132 and the continuous fire magnet
134 are in close proximity such that magnetic force holds the block
plunger 114 in an armed position (see FIG. 4). The block plunger
114 includes a self-return feature, e.g., a plunger spring (not
shown), that returns the block plunger 114 and the trigger
interference member block 112 to the locked position (away from the
continuous fire magnet 134, as shown in FIG. 4). The plunger spring
is not strong enough to overcome the magnetic force between magnets
132 and 134, but has the requisite force to return the block
plunger 114 and the trigger interference member block 112 to the
locked position when the continuous fire button 150 is released,
removing the magnetic bond between magnets 132 and 134 by
increasing the distance therebetween. In some embodiments, when the
magnets 132 and 134 are providing a magnetic bond, power to the
electronic actuator 246 is removed, allowing the electronic
actuator 246 to return to a non-energized state, thereby conserving
energy in the battery 210. In other embodiments, the magnets 132
and 134 are omitted and replaced with mechanical retention,
electrical retention, or a continuous signal to the electronic
actuator 246.
[0059] As shown most clearly by the arrows in FIG. 4, once the
trigger interference member block 112 has been retracted by the
block plunger 114, the trigger interference member 130 no longer
prevents actuation of the trigger T. The trigger T is shown in an
actuated state in FIG. 4, with the trigger interference member 130
moving rearward within the firearm interface portion 104. In the
illustrated embodiments, as described, the firearm FA can be fired
without interruption so long as the continuous fire button 150 is
depressed, keeping the magnetic bond between the plunger magnet 132
and the continuous fire magnet 134. However, in other embodiments,
the trigger lock assembly 100 must be continuously authenticated to
allow further firing of the firearm FA.
[0060] Like the block plunger 114, in some embodiments, the trigger
interference member 130 includes a self-return feature, e.g., a
trigger interference member spring (not shown), to return the
trigger interference member 130 to a lockable state such that the
trigger interference member block 112 can travel behind the trigger
interference member 130 to prevent actuation of the trigger T,
returning the trigger lock assembly 100 to a locked state. In this
regard, when actuating the trigger T, the trigger interference
member 130 retains contact with the trigger T throughout the
actuation, closely following the motion of the trigger T. In other
embodiments, the trigger interference member 130 remains retracted
while the system is authenticated so that the trigger interference
member 130 does not interfere with the trigger T movement, which
can adversely affect the feel of the trigger as perceived by the
user.
[0061] As shown most clearly by the arrows in FIG. 5, various
components move to return the trigger lock assembly 100 to a locked
position. As the trigger T is released, the trigger interference
member 130 follows the trigger T forward to a lockable position
with the assistance of the self-return feature. Next, the
continuous fire button 150 is returned to a released state,
indicative of the user removing the hand from the grip portion 110.
As the continuous fire button 150 is released, the movement of the
plunger magnet 132 and the continuous fire magnet 134 break the
magnetic bond, allowing the self-return feature of the block
plunger 114 to return the trigger interference member block 112 to
the locked position behind the trigger interference member 130,
thereby preventing further actuation of the trigger T until
authentication is processed further.
[0062] As described above, in embodiments of the present
disclosure, the firearm interface feature 102 of the firearm
interface member 104 is configured to interface different
configurations of firearm. In some embodiments, such as those
illustrated herein, the trigger lock assembly 100 is manufactured
with a firearm interface feature 102 that corresponds closely and
mates with a grip mounting area of an AR platform firearm. In other
embodiments, the trigger lock assembly 100 is manufactured with a
firearm interface feature 102 that mates with a grip mounting area
of other standard platform firearms, such as rifles, shotguns,
handguns, and the like. In this regard, different shapes of the
firearm interface feature 102 are suitably required and are within
the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments relating
to different firearm installations, other features of the trigger
lock assembly 100 are changed to conform to the interface of the
firearm.
[0063] When the firearm FA is locked using the trigger lock
assembly 100 of the present disclosure (see, e.g., FIG. 3), the
user must authenticate the system with a proper authorization key
before the trigger interference member block 112 will retract and
allow actuation of the trigger T of the firearm FA. In one
embodiment, authentication is performed using an RFID USB board 240
paired with an RFID reader in the trigger lock assembly 100. The
RFID system suitably includes a wearable component (not shown) as
the authorization key carrying device, such as a ring, bracelet,
glove, necklace, etc., or a non-wearable component, such as a card,
remote, key fob, etc. The system authenticates the RFID device
through the RFID USB board 240 to authorize the user and retracts
the trigger interference member block 112 using the electronic
actuator 246. In other embodiments described above, authentication
is performed using a fingerprint scanner 124 mounted in the
fingerprint scanner PCB 224 integrated into a window of the cover
portion 120. In further embodiments, authentication is performed
using heartbeat signature recognition, retina scan identification,
or other suitable authentication methods. A valid authentication
requires enrollment of the authorization key (e.g., a fingerprint
image, RFID key, heartbeat signature, retina scan, etc.). The
enrollment process for new authorization keys, or to replace
existing authorization keys, is described in further detail related
to "enrollment mode" below.
[0064] In further embodiments of the present disclosure, the RFID
and fingerprint authentication methods are both utilized in
conjunction within a single trigger lock assembly 100. In this
regard, the RFID is the first or primary authentication method due
to the speed at which the RFID device can be identified (without
the user touching the trigger lock assembly 100). The fingerprint
authentication is then used as a secondary or backup authentication
system. If the user does not have the RFID device near the RFID
reader, the firearm FA can still be armed and used by the
authorized user. A final authentication method is manual using
either a keyed or combination lock as shown by the manual
authentication component 162. The user inserts a key or enters a
combination in the manual authentication component 162 to
authenticate the system and arm the firearm FA. In this regard, if
the battery 210 lacks the requisite power to operate the electronic
actuator 246, or any other electronic component of the trigger lock
assembly 100, the manual authentication component 162 overrides the
lock and renders the firearm FA functional for firing. In other
embodiments, any combination and order of authentication methods
are suitably used with the trigger lock assembly 100.
[0065] Turning now to FIG. 6, details of the electronic system 200
of the trigger lock assembly 100 will be explained in further
detail. The battery 210 provides system electrical power to the
various components. The battery 210 is charged using the USB
charger 212 which includes a charging port (not shown), e.g., a
mini or micro USB female plug, a wireless charger, etc. The
continuous fire button switch 136 is depressed by the continuous
fire button 150 such that the system is energized by the user
grasping the grip portion 110. As previously stated, the electronic
system 200 power is conserved until receiving a "wake" signal such
that the firearm FA can be left unattended for extended periods of
time without charging the battery 210.
[0066] The main PCB 216, including the GPS PCB 218 and the
secondary PCB 242, performs a majority of the computing tasks
related to the function of the electronic system 200. In this
regard, a CPU may perform processes to activate different features
of the electronic system 200. The main PCB 216 is centrally in
communication with to the various components of the electronic
system 200 through various resistors 220, 222, 226, 228, 250, 252,
254, and 256 of different resistance levels. In this regard,
although representative resistance levels are listed in FIG. 6 (1K,
10K, 22K, etc.), any suitable resistance level may be used in the
electronic system 200 to achieve the intended function. Although
the main PCB 216 is shown as comprising multiple PCB units 218 and
242, in some embodiments, the main PCB 216 comprises a single PCB
unit. In other embodiments, more than two PCB units comprise the
main PCB 216. In this regard, features of the trigger lock assembly
100 may be added or omitted per model or upon the purchaser's
request.
[0067] The dip switch 230 provides increased flexibility for the
functionality of the electronic system 200 such that different
components and options are available for adjustment by the
manufacturer and/or user. In one embodiment, the dip switch 230
allows the manufacturer and/or user to place the main PCB 216 into
enrollment mode. In this regard, enrollment mode allows the
authentication system to "learn" a new authorization key for the
authentication process, e.g., a fingerprint, RFID signal from the
wearable component, heartbeat signature, retina key, etc. In one
example, enrollment mode is used by a new purchaser of the
universal trigger lock 100. In another example, enrollment mode is
used to transfer authorization to another person or to authorize an
additional or different wearable component for use with the firearm
FA.
[0068] In one embodiment, the GPS PCB 218 integrates a positioning
functionality to the system of the present disclosure. In one
example, the GPS PCB 218 is programmed such that the electronics
system 200 sends a signal that can be tracked using a satellite
tracking system. This signal can be used to aid in recovery of
stolen or misplaced firearms. In particular, law enforcement is a
likely candidate for the described GPS functionality. In another
aspect, the GPS PCB 218 may include accelerometers that alert the
user if the firearm FA is disturbed by an unauthorized user. In
these embodiments, the electronics system 200 includes a
transmitting device (not shown), such as a wireless transmitter,
RFID transmitter, or an SMS transmitter, among others, to send a
signal that can be remotely received by a device.
[0069] The status LED mounting board 158 (see FIG. 3) includes the
red status LED 152, the green status LED 154, and the blue status
LED 156, which provide the user an indication of different stages
of the electronic system 200. In one representative embodiment, the
red status LED 152 indicates the battery 210 of the trigger lock
assembly 100 is charging, the green status LED 154 indicates the
trigger lock assembly 100 has successfully completed the enrollment
of a new authorization key, and the blue status LED 156 indicates
the trigger lock assembly 100 is authenticated and the firearm FA
is ready to fire. In other embodiments, the LEDs 152, 154, and 156
indicate any information or state of the electronic system 200,
including RFID authentication, enrollment mode status, manual lock
override, system fault, low battery warning, unauthorized movement,
etc. In this regard, a single LED may be active at any given time,
or multiple LEDs may be active simultaneously. Further, any single
LED may signify several features by using a mixture of steady on,
blinking frequency, or other on-off patterns to indicate
information of the type described above. For example, the red
status LED 152 may simultaneously display information related to
the charging status of the battery 210 and a failure in enrollment
of a new authorization key by switching from steady on to blinking
of the red status LED 152.
[0070] Now referring to FIGS. 7-10, trigger lock assemblies in
accordance with other embodiments of the present disclosure will be
described in more detail. The trigger lock assemblies are
substantially similar in materials and operation as the previously
described embodiment, except for differences regarding the locking
of the trigger and the firearm interface portion (FIGS. 7 and 8)
and the mounting configuration of the trigger lock assembly (FIGS.
9 and 10), which will be described in greater detail below. For
clarity in the ensuing descriptions, numeral references of like
elements of the trigger lock assembly 100 are similar, but are in
the 200 series for the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 8, and
in the 300 series for the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 9 and
10.
[0071] In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 7 and 8, a trigger
lock assembly 200 generally includes a firearm interface portion
274 including a vertical slot 276, the firearm interface portion
274 couplable to a lower assembly L of the firearm FA, a grip
portion 210, a cover portion 220, a base portion 222, a fingerprint
scanner 224, a trigger door member 278 capable of blocking access
to the trigger T contained within the trigger guard TG, a
continuous fire button 250, a cover portion access lock 260, and a
manual authentication component 262. The grip portion 210 also
includes a red status LED 252, a green status LED 254, and a blue
status LED 256. The trigger lock assembly 200 is configured to
interface the hand of a user (not pictured) of the firearm FA.
Although only the FIGS. 7 and 8 only show the left side of the
trigger lock assembly 200, the right side is substantially mirrored
with a second vertical slot 276 and a second trigger door member
278 slidable within the firearm interface portion 274.
[0072] As shown in the transition from FIG. 7 (unlocked) to FIG. 8
(locked), the access to the trigger T is blocked by the trigger
door members 278 on either side of the trigger guard TG, such that
a user cannot reach and actuate the trigger T until the trigger
door members 278 retract within the vertical slots 276 of the
firearm interface portion 274. In some embodiments, to allow for
retraction of the trigger door members 278, the firearm interface
portion 274 is extended toward the rear of the firearm FA. In some
embodiments in contrast to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-5, the
actuation of the trigger T is not positively blocked from movement
by components the trigger lock assembly 200 (such as with the
trigger interference member 130), the access to the trigger T is
restricted. In other embodiments, a combination of restricted
access and positive blocking of the trigger is suitably used.
[0073] In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 9 and 10, a trigger
lock assembly 300 is shown attached to an accessory rail portion of
a pistol P having a pistol trigger TP and a grip G. The accessory
rail portion traditionally provides a mounting location for certain
pistol accessories like a flashlight, laser, or other attachable
accessory. The trigger lock assembly 300 generally includes a
pistol interface feature 302, a pistol interface portion 374, a
vertical slot 376 in the pistol interface portion 374, a
fingerprint scanner 324, and a trigger door member 378. Although
only the FIGS. 9 and 10 only show the left side of the trigger lock
assembly 300, the right side is substantially mirrored with a
second vertical slot 376 and a second trigger door member 378
slidable within the pistol interface portion 374.
[0074] Similarly to the trigger lock assembly 200, the embodiments
of the trigger lock assembly 300 place the pistol P into a locked
state by blocking access to the pistol trigger TP such that a user
cannot reach and actuate the pistol trigger TP until the trigger
door members 378 retract within the vertical slots 376 of the
pistol interface portion 374. In this regard, the trigger door
members 378 retract forward into the pistol interface portion 374
mounted on the accessory rail of the pistol P. In some embodiments,
the pistol interface feature 302 is adapted to mount to different
styles of accessory rails, such as a "picatinny" style rail. In
other embodiments, the pistol interface feature 302 is adapted to
mount to a pistol P without an accessory rail.
[0075] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, in some embodiments, the trigger
lock assembly 300 has a laser sight 380 to include the
functionality of other types of accessories that are traditionally
mounted to the accessory rail. In other embodiments, other
functionality is included with the trigger lock assembly 300 in
conjunction or in place of the laser sight 380, such as a light
source, a rail mount extension, a rail mount transfer above the
pistol P, a bayonet mount, a rest (bipod, etc.), a folding grip
extension, or any other suitable integrated accessory.
[0076] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of
operation of the present disclosure have been described in the
foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure,
which are intended to be protected, are not to be construed as
limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Further, the
embodiments described herein are to be regarded as illustrative
rather than restrictive. It will be appreciated that variations and
changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without
departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly,
it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and
equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure as claimed.
* * * * *