U.S. patent application number 15/258276 was filed with the patent office on 2018-03-08 for safety mechanism for firearms.
The applicant listed for this patent is CLIPFORD L.T.D BV. Invention is credited to Daniel BIRAN.
Application Number | 20180066910 15/258276 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 60001956 |
Filed Date | 2018-03-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180066910 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BIRAN; Daniel |
March 8, 2018 |
SAFETY MECHANISM FOR FIREARMS
Abstract
A method and apparatus for discharge blocking device compatible
with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, the
discharge blocking device comprising, a cover, having a shape
compatible with the magazine housing, abase, covering a locking
mechanism, and a locking element, at least partially accommodated
in a channel inside the cover, wherein the locking element is
configured to allow movement within the channel between locked and
unlocked states in order to allow blocking the trigger bar of the
firearm, and wherein the locking element is at least partially
accommodated inside the wall of the cover and configured to at
least partially rotate between locked and unlocked states about an
axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension of the cover,
in order to allow blocking the trigger bar of the firearm with the
blocking segment.
Inventors: |
BIRAN; Daniel; (Ramat
Hasharon, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CLIPFORD L.T.D BV |
Amsterdam |
|
NL |
|
|
Family ID: |
60001956 |
Appl. No.: |
15/258276 |
Filed: |
September 7, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41A 17/46 20130101;
F41C 3/00 20130101; F41A 17/066 20130101; F41A 9/61 20130101; F41A
17/34 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41A 17/34 20060101
F41A017/34; F41A 17/06 20060101 F41A017/06; F41A 17/46 20060101
F41A017/46 |
Claims
1. A discharge blocking device compatible with a firearm having a
magazine housing and a trigger bar, the discharge blocking device
comprising: a cover, having a shape compatible with the magazine
housing; a base, covering a locking mechanism; and a locking
element, at least partially accommodated in a channel inside the
cover, wherein the locking element is configured to allow movement
within the channel between locked and unlocked states in order to
allow blocking the trigger bar of the firearm.
2. The discharge blocking device of claim 1, wherein the locking
element is adapted to push the trigger bar into locked position
during transition from unlocked state to locked state.
3. The discharge blocking device of claim 1, further comprising a
lead screw that is configured to allow lateral movement of the
locking element upon rotation of the lead screw.
4. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, wherein the
cover is configured to couple with the magazine housing.
5. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, further
comprising a positioning lever configured to allow indication upon
accommodation of the discharge blocking device within the magazine
housing.
6. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, further
comprising a dedicated space for accommodation of bullets.
7. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, further
comprising a wedge configured to allow locking the discharge
blocking device to the magazine housing.
8. The discharge blocking device according to claim 7, wherein the
wedge is movable by movement of the locking element.
9. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, further
comprising at least one user identification unit.
10. The discharge blocking device according to claim 9, wherein the
user identification unit comprises biometric identification.
11. The discharge blocking device according to claim 9, further
comprising a mechanical identification override device.
12. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, wherein the
locking element is configured to lock the device to the firearm in
a locked state.
13. A method for locking a magazine to a firearm and preventing
accidental discharge, the firearm having a magazine housing and a
trigger bar, and the method comprising: inserting a cover of the
magazine into the magazine housing; and engaging a locking element
of the magazine with the trigger bar; wherein the locking element
is configured to allow blocking the trigger bar upon engagement
therewith.
14. A discharge blocking device compatible with a firearm having a
magazine housing and a trigger bar, the discharge blocking device
comprising: a cover, having a shape compatible with the magazine
housing; a base, covering a locking mechanism; and a rotating
locking element, having a blocking segment and at least partially
accommodated inside the wall of the cover, wherein the rotating
locking element is configured to at least partially rotate between
locked and unlocked states about an axis that is aligned with the
longitudinal dimension of the cover, in order to allow blocking the
trigger bar of the firearm with the blocking segment.
15. The discharge blocking device according to claim 15, wherein
the locking element is configured to lock the device to the firearm
in a locked state.
16. The discharge blocking device according to claim 15, wherein
the rotating locking element comprises a rotating projection that
is configured to rotate with rotation of the rotating locking
element, and also configured to project from the cover to block the
trigger bar.
17. The discharge blocking device according to claim 15, wherein
the rotating locking element comprises a bottom portion operably
coupled to a locking mechanism within the base, and wherein
movement of the bottom portion rotates the rotating locking
element.
18. The discharge blocking device according to claim 17, wherein
the base comprises at least one gear coupled to a motor, and
wherein the at least one gear is capable of moving the bottom
portion between locked and unlocked states.
19. The discharge blocking device according to claim 15, wherein
the cover is configured to couple with the magazine housing.
20. The discharge blocking device according to claim 15, further
comprising a positioning switch configured to allow indication upon
accommodation of the discharge blocking device within the magazine
housing.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to firearms. More
particularly, the present invention relates to a safety magazine
for various firearms.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of
accidental, negligent or unauthorized discharge from various
firearms, particularly handguns. Such incidents typically occur
when the trigger of the firearm is deliberately pulled for a
purpose other than shooting, such as dry-fire practice,
demonstration or function testing, but the ammunition is
unintentionally left in the chamber. Unintentionally leaving a
firearm loaded is more likely to occur when the individual handling
the gun is poorly trained, and perhaps also with
removable-magazine-fed firearms (as the magazine may be removed,
giving an unloaded appearance even when a round remains chambered).
Since most handguns are designed such that the magazine constantly
remains inside, thus keeping the handgun constantly loaded, such
accidental or otherwise undesired or unauthorized discharge is more
likely to occur.
[0003] A second common cause of negligent discharge is placement by
the gun-handler of his/her finger on the trigger before deciding to
shoot. With the finger so positioned, many activities may cause the
finger to compress the trigger unintentionally. For example, if one
attempts to holster the firearm with finger on trigger, the holster
edge might drive the finger onto the trigger, and discharge is
likely.
[0004] Accidental discharges not involving a trigger-pull can also
occur if the firearm is mechanically unsound: due to poor
maintenance, abuse and/or the use of defective ammunition in the
gun, may all lead to breakage.
[0005] Furthermore, recently there has been a sharp increase in
misuse of firearms with unauthorized users firing (for fun or by
accident), and particularly youngsters using their parents'
firearms. Such incidents cause many injuries (and sometimes
fatalities) since there are no means to prevent other people from
using a gun of an authorized user.
[0006] It would, therefore, be advantageous to provide safety means
for firearms so as to prevent unintentional and/or unauthorized
firing and/or accidental discharge.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] There is thus provided, in accordance with some embodiments
of the invention, a discharge blocking device compatible with a
firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, the discharge
blocking device including a cover, having a shape compatible with
the magazine housing, a base, covering a locking mechanism, and a
locking element, at least partially accommodated in a channel
inside the cover. In some embodiments, the locking element is
configured to allow movement within the channel between locked and
unlocked states in order to allow blocking the trigger bar of the
firearm.
[0008] In some embodiments, the locking element is adapted to push
the trigger bar into locked position during transition from
unlocked state to locked state. In some embodiments, the discharge
blocking device further includes a lead screw that is configured to
allow lateral movement of the locking element upon rotation of the
lead screw. In some embodiments, the cover is configured to couple
with the magazine housing.
[0009] In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further
includes a positioning lever configured to allow indication upon
accommodation of the discharge blocking device within the magazine
housing. In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further
includes a dedicated space for accommodation of bullets.
[0010] In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further
includes a wedge configured to allow locking the discharge blocking
device to the magazine housing. In some embodiments, the discharge
blocking device further includes at least one user identification
unit. In some embodiments, the user identification unit includes
biometric identification. In some embodiments, the wedge is movable
by movement of the locking element.
[0011] In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device further
includes a mechanical identification override device. In some
embodiments, the locking element is configured to lock the device
to the firearm in a locked state.
[0012] There is thus provided, in accordance with some embodiments
of the invention, a method for locking a magazine to a firearm and
preventing accidental discharge, the firearm having a magazine
housing and a trigger bar, and the method including inserting a
cover of the magazine into the magazine housing, and engaging a
locking element of the magazine with the trigger bar. In some
embodiments, the locking element is configured to allow blocking
the trigger bar upon engagement therewith.
[0013] There is thus provided, in accordance with some embodiments
of the invention, a discharge blocking device compatible with a
firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, the discharge
blocking device including a cover, having a shape compatible with
the magazine housing, a base, covering a locking mechanism, and a
rotating locking element, having a blocking segment and at least
partially accommodated inside the wall of the cover. In some
embodiments, the rotating locking element is configured to at least
partially rotate between locked and unlocked states about an axis
that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension of the cover, in
order to allow blocking the trigger bar of the firearm with the
blocking segment.
[0014] In some embodiments, the locking element is configured to
lock the device to the firearm in a locked state. In some
embodiments, the rotating locking element includes a rotating
projection that is configured to rotate with rotation of the
rotating locking element, and also configured to project from the
cover to block the trigger bar. In some embodiments, the rotating
locking element includes a bottom portion operably coupled to a
locking mechanism within the base, and wherein movement of the
bottom portion rotates the rotating locking element.
[0015] In some embodiments, the base includes at least one gear
coupled to a motor, and wherein the at least one gear is capable of
moving the bottom portion between locked and unlocked states. In
some embodiments, the cover is configured to couple with the
magazine housing. In some embodiments, the discharge blocking
device further includes a positioning switch configured to allow
indication upon accommodation of the discharge blocking device
within the magazine housing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The subject matter regarded as the invention is particularly
pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the
specification. The invention, however, both as to organization and
method of operation, together with objects, features, and
advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the
following detailed description when read with the accompanying
drawings in which:
[0017] FIG. 1A schematically illustrates a right perspective view
of a discharge blocking device, according to some embodiments of
the invention;
[0018] FIG. 1B schematically illustrates a left side
cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device, according to
some embodiments of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 2A schematically illustrates a left side partial
cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device in a locked
state, according to some embodiments of the invention;
[0020] FIG. 2B schematically illustrates a left side partial
cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device in an
unlocked state, according to some embodiments of the invention;
[0021] FIG. 3A schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
the discharge blocking device, according to a preferred embodiment
of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 3B schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
the base of the discharge blocking device, according to a preferred
embodiment of the invention;
[0023] FIG. 4A schematically illustrates a perspective view of the
discharge blocking device accommodated in a magazine housing of a
firearm, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0024] FIG. 4B schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
the discharge blocking device accommodated in the magazine housing
of a firearm, according to a preferred embodiment of the
invention;
[0025] FIG. 5A schematically illustrates a right perspective view
of a rotating element discharge blocking device, according to some
embodiments of the invention;
[0026] FIG. 5B schematically illustrates a left side view of the
rotating element discharge blocking device, according to some
embodiments of the invention;
[0027] FIG. 6A schematically illustrates a right side
cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking
device, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0028] FIG. 6B schematically illustrates a left side
cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking
device, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0029] FIG. 7A schematically illustrate a partial perspective view
of the rotating element discharge blocking device adjacent to a
trigger bar in a locked mode, according to a preferred embodiment
of the invention;
[0030] FIG. 7B schematically illustrate a partial perspective view
of the rotating element discharge blocking device adjacent to a
trigger bar in an unlocked mode, according to a preferred
embodiment of the invention;
[0031] FIG. 8 schematically illustrate a cross-sectional view of
rotating element discharge blocking device, according to a
preferred embodiment of the invention; and
[0032] FIG. 9 shows a flow chart for a method of blocking discharge
in a firearm, according to a preferred embodiment of the
invention.
[0033] It will be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarity of
illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily
been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the
elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity.
Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be
repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous
elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0034] In the following detailed description, numerous specific
details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding
of embodiments of the invention. However, it will be understood by
those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments of the
invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other
instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not
been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments of
the invention.
[0035] Reference is now made to FIGS. 1A-1B, which show a discharge
blocking device 100, according to some embodiments of the
invention. FIG. 1A schematically illustrates a right perspective
view (with respect to the shooting direction of the firearm) of a
discharge blocking device 100, and FIG. 1B schematically
illustrates a left side cross-sectional view of the discharge
blocking device 100.
[0036] It is appreciated that discharge blocking device 100 (as a
safety magazine) according to some embodiments of the invention is
adapted to allow a user, operating a firearm, to block the
discharge by having a safety mechanism (within the discharge
blocking device) set in a locked mode, such that the discharge may
be enabled only according to the selection by an authorized user
with the safety mechanism. Therefore, in addition to the existing
safety selector on the firearm, discharge blocking device 100 may
provide further means for controlling the firing mode of the
firearm (e.g., locked or unlocked mode), further described
hereinafter.
[0037] Discharge blocking device 100 may include a cover 110 having
a structure that is compatible with some commercially available
magazines for firearms, for instance having a shape and dimensions
corresponding to and adapted to be inserted into a magazine housing
of, for example, a Glock.RTM. handgun. Discharge blocking device
100 may further include a base 120 that at least partially covers a
safety mechanism that is configured to block the discharge.
[0038] In some embodiments, base 120 may have a shape protruding
with respect to cover 110, such that easy gripping (of base 120) by
a user operating the firearm may be allowed for insertion into and
removal from the firearm. It is therefore appreciated that only
with the base 120, the difference from commercially available
magazines (for example, a Glock.RTM. handgun) may be observed, when
the safety magazine is inserted into a firearm.
[0039] In some embodiments, cover 110 may have a top segment 130
that is configured to couple with the magazine housing in a
compatible firearm (for example as shown in FIG. 4A). Top segment
130 may have an opening for insertion of cartridges therein (e.g.,
in a single column or stacked), such that the cartridge that is
last inserted partially protrudes through top segment 130 in order
to engage the firearm upon coupling with the magazine housing.
Thus, operation similar to regular magazines for firearms may be
enabled as discharge blocking device 100 provides accommodation of
cartridges, and also engagement of these cartridges with the
corresponding firearm upon coupling.
[0040] In some embodiments, cover 110 may further include a recess
180 that corresponds in shape to an external magazine catch 480 (as
shown in FIGS. 4A-4B) in order to allow locking the position of
discharge blocking device 100 within the magazine housing once the
external magazine catch 480 is inserted thereto. Thus, cover 110
may provide features similar to commercially available firearm
magazines, as well as enhanced features for blocking discharge upon
the selection of an authorized user.
[0041] It may be appreciated that a locking element (or latch) 140,
accommodated within discharge blocking device 100, may be
configured to be capable of at least partially protruding from top
segment 130 to block discharge of the firearm due to movement of
element 140 from one (stowed) position to another (extended)
position. In some embodiments, locking element 140 may be at least
partially accommodated within a channel 114 inside cover 110. When
discharge blocking device 100 is enabled (e.g., in an unlocked
mode) the firearm may be immediately operated, with locking element
140 configured to move within channel 114 between locked and
unlocked states. It is noted that the operation of locking element
140, for instance with movement within channel 114, may be
configured to allow locking element 140 to protrude from discharge
blocking device 100. Protrusion of locking element 140 may be
performed in order to engage and/or block a compatible trigger bar
of the firearm so as to push the trigger bar into a locked position
during transition from unlocked state to locked state and thereby
block the discharge.
[0042] According to some embodiments, a top portion 142 of locking
element 140 may protrude from top segment 130, in order to allow
top portion 142 to engage the trigger bar when locking element 140
is in a locked state and top portion 142 protrudes from top segment
130. It may be appreciated that protruding top portion 142 may
prevent movement of the trigger bar rearwards, namely towards the
back of the barrel of the firearm, and thereby may prevent and/or
block the discharge, as further described hereinafter.
[0043] According to some embodiments, a side jag 144 of locking
element 140 may protrude from channel 114 and be accommodated
within volume 150 such that movement of locking element 140 within
channel 114 may also move side jag 144 within volume 150
accordingly. Discharge blocking device 100 may further include a
wedge 160 that may be built in into cover 110. In some embodiments,
wedge 160 may at least partially protrude into volume 150 from a
first end, for example when discharge blocking device 100 is in
unlocked state. In some embodiments, wedge 160 may at least
partially protrude from cover 110, through a compatible window 170,
from a second end opposite to the first end, for example when
discharge blocking device 100 is in a locked state. It may be
appreciated that movement of locking element 140 from unlocked
state to locked state (for example causing top portion 142 to
protrude from top segment 130) may cause side jag 144 to move
within volume 150 so as to engage the first end of wedge 160.
[0044] Reference is now made to FIGS. 2A-2B, which schematically
illustrate a left side partial cross-sectional view of discharge
blocking device 100 in locked and in unlocked states, respectively,
according to some embodiments of the invention.
[0045] In some embodiments, wedge 160 may have a shape
corresponding to the shape of side jag 144, such that movement of
side jag 144 from unlocked state (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2B) to
locked state (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2A) may at least partially
push one end of wedge 160 outwardly from cover 110 in order to at
least partially protrude the second end of wedge 160 from window
170, out of cover 110. Thus, in a locked state while top portion
142 may protrude from top segment 130 to engage and/or block the
trigger bar, side jag 144 may move the second end of wedge 160 so
as to at least partially protrude the second end of wedge 160 from
window 170. It may be appreciated that wedge 160 protruding from
window 170 may engage with magazine housing and thereby prevent the
safety mechanism from being removed from the firearm. In some
embodiments, top portion 142 may block movement of the trigger bar
backwards at substantially the same time as wedge 160 blocks
movement forwards. In some embodiments, wedge 160 protruding from
window 170 may lock discharge blocking device 100 to the magazine
housing and thereby prevent removal of the discharge blocking
device 100, as further described hereinafter.
[0046] In some embodiments, in an unlocked state side jag 144 may
move within volume 150 such that wedge 160 is not engaged to it,
and thereby second end of wedge 160 may not engage the magazine
housing (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4B). In some embodiments, wedge 160
may have a spring like effect (e.g., spring loaded) that may enable
self-inward return towards volume 150 when not engaged by side jag
144.
[0047] Referring back to FIG. 1B, locking element 140 may further
include a bottom portion 141 (e.g., on the opposite side of locking
element 140 in respect of top portion 142) that may be in contact
with a sensor 191 that is configured to detect movement of bottom
portion 141 between locked and unlocked modes. For example, sensor
191 may be an optical sensor having an optical path that is blocked
when locking element 140 is in unlocked mode. In some embodiments,
sensor 191 may be operably coupled to a central controller 310
(e.g., a processor, denoted "PCB" in FIG. 3B) that is configured to
electrically control the operation of discharge blocking device
100. In some embodiments, in case of electrical malfunction, manual
operation of discharge blocking device 100 may also be possible, as
further described hereinafter.
[0048] According to some embodiments, bottom portion 141 may be
also in contact with a switching element 190 that is configured to
allow switching between locked and unlocked modes. Switching
element 190 may be operationally coupled to a motor 122 (e.g.,
accommodated within base 120) capable of electrically and/or
mechanically moving locking element 140 (as further described
hereinafter) between locked and unlocked modes. In some
embodiments, switching element 190 may be of helical shape and/or
include a lead screw, which is capable of translating rotational
movement into linear movement, so as to allow rotational movement
of switching element 190 to be translated into lateral movement of
locking element 140. Thus, rotational movement of switching element
190 may move bottom portion 141 coupled thereto and thereby
linearly move locking element 140 in channel 114 between locked and
unlocked states. In some embodiments, if bottom portion 141 engages
the bottom end of switching element 190, then discharge blocking
device 100 is in "FIRE" mode and discharge is allowed, whereas if
bottom portion 141 engages the top end of switching element 190,
then discharge blocking device 100 is in "SAFE" mode (e.g., as
shown in FIG. 1B) and discharge is prevented with blocking of the
trigger bar.
[0049] According to some embodiments, discharge blocking device 100
may further include a user identification segment 121. User
identification segment 121 may be operably coupled to the locking
mechanism (e.g., inside base 120) within discharge blocking device
100 and thereby coupled to locking element 140 so as to disable the
blocking, i.e. switch to "unlocked" mode upon identification of an
authorized user. User identification segment 121 may include
biometric user identification (e.g., fingerprint identification)
unit, password identification means with a dedicated user
interface, or any other identification means (for example buttons
to be pressed by the user, for example for entering a secret
buttons' sequence, and/or wireless communication means such as
radio frequency or near field communication). In some embodiments,
user identification segment 121 may further include storage of ID
data for storing ID data of authorized users. In some embodiments,
discharge blocking device 100 may further include at least one
indicator that is configured to indicate the locking mode of
discharge blocking device 100, e.g., "locked", "unlocked", "error",
etc. The user may control the mode of discharge (and thereby change
the indication of the indicator) in order to change the mode of
discharge blocking device 100, for instance by placing a finger on
a fingerprint sensor and identifying via fingerprint in order to
switch the device to an "unlocked" mode. In some embodiments,
changing from "unlocked" to "locked" mode may be done automatically
by the device when the safety device detects an insertion of safety
device into magazine housing. It should be noted that user
identification segment 121 and the at least one indicator may be
electrically coupled to the locking mechanism, e.g., by means of
controller 310, so as to allow control of the locking mode of
discharge blocking device 100. In some embodiments, a central
controller 310 (e.g., a processing unit, as shown in FIG. 3B) may
control the operation of discharge blocking device. Specifically,
controller, such as controller 310, may control switching between
"locked" and "unlocked" modes based on input from user
identification segment 121.
[0050] In some non-limiting embodiments, discharge blocking device
100 may further include a power storage unit, e.g., a battery,
configured to provide power for the locking mechanism, so as to
allow operation of the mechanical elements. In some embodiments, a
battery status indicator may also be provided with the indicators.
It is appreciated that, upon insertion into a magazine housing,
discharge blocking device 100 may become automatically in a
"locked" state with locking element 140 protruding and blocking the
trigger bar of the firearm.
[0051] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may further
include a communication unit capable of sending and receiving
wireless data (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, or cellular
networks). The communication unit may therefore allow a user to set
conditions for the discharge blocking device to become locked or
unlocked, as may be desired. For example, once the discharge
blocking device detects data that indicates that the firearm is
inside an authorized area (for instance data from a GPS device),
then the locking is removed and the firearm may be used.
Alternatively, a dedicated signal may be wirelessly received by the
discharge blocking device such that a user may select that in a
particular time the locking is removed, no matter who operates the
firearm. For example, a training officer at the police academy may
wirelessly remove the locking from multiple firearms that are
scheduled for practice.
[0052] Reference is now made to FIG. 3A, which schematically
illustrates a cross-sectional view of discharge blocking device
100, wherein the cross-section plane is performed along imaginary
dashed line 101 of FIG. 1A, according to some embodiments of the
invention. Discharge blocking device 100 may include a space 270
covered by cover 110 and dedicated for accommodation of cartridges
70 (e.g., fourteen cartridges in a double row) as in a commercially
available magazine. In some embodiments, the external structure of
cover 110 may correspond to that of a commercially available
magazine capable of accommodating cartridges (e.g., in a stacked
column), such that, when discharge blocking safety mechanism is
provided, for instance locking element 140 embedded into the wall
of cover 110, cartridges may be accommodated within discharge
blocking device 100. It is noted that discharge blocking device 100
may be operated both as a regular magazine, storing cartridges at
dedicated space 270, such that the firearm can be used in the
regular fashion, as well as be operated as a discharge blocking
device that prevents unwanted (or unauthorized) use of firearm,
when in locked mode.
[0053] Reference is now made to FIG. 3B, which schematically
illustrates a cross-sectional view of base 120, wherein the
cross-section is carried out parallel to locking element 140,
according to some embodiments of the invention. In some
embodiments, base 120 includes a positioning lever 300, embedded
therein, which is initially in an "open" state and configured to
detect accommodation of discharge blocking device 100 within the
magazine housing. Positioning lever 300 may be configured to be
capable of protruding from base 120, such that, upon insertion into
the magazine housing of a firearm, positioning lever 300 may engage
the inner wall of the magazine housing and be forced to move into
base 120 (e.g., by means of a loaded spring). Upon accommodation
within the magazine housing and detection thereof, positioning
lever 300 may move back into base 120 and switch to a "closed"
state. In some embodiments, at a "closed" state positioning lever
300 may engage a positioning sensor 350 that is configured to
provide a signal (e.g., to central controller 310) corresponding to
detected states.
[0054] It may be appreciated that positioning lever 300 may provide
an initial locking mechanism, that may be configured to disable the
operation of the firearm unless in "closed" state. In some
embodiments, positioning lever 300 may be coupled to the
positioning sensor 350 that is capable of electrically detecting
change between "open" and "closed" states.
[0055] Upon switching to a "closed" state (i.e., detection of
discharge blocking device 100 within the magazine housing) by
positioning lever 300, locking element 140 may, according to
embodiments of the present invention, be automatically operated to
move to a "locked" mode and block the trigger bar of the firearm so
as to block any discharge until the user switches to "unlocked"
mode. For example, upon insertion into a magazine housing,
positioning lever 300 may engage the inner wall of the magazine
housing and be forced to move inwardly into base 120 to engage
positioning sensor 350. Positioning sensor 350 may then send a
signal to central controller 310 indicating that discharge blocking
device 100 is in a "closed state" (e.g., within the magazine
housing). This may cause control motor 122 to move locking element
140 to a "locked" position blocking the trigger bar. In some
embodiments, motor 122 may be coupled to switching element 190 with
movable gears such that movement of a first gear coupled to motor
122 may move second gear coupled to switching element 190.
[0056] It should be noted that, initially, positioning lever 300
may be in an "open" state and locking element 140 is in "unlocked"
mode, such that, upon engagement with the magazine housing
positioning lever 300 may switch to "closed" state and thereby
locking element 140 moved to a "locked" mode. Thus, discharge
blocking device 100 may automatically switch to "locked" mode and
prevent discharge upon engagement with the magazine housing.
[0057] It may be appreciated that positioning lever 300 and wedge
160 protrude from the back side of cover 110 (adjacent to user
identification segment 121), opposite to top portion 142,
protruding from the frontal side of cover 110 (the side that points
toward the barrel end when inserted into the firearm).
[0058] According to some embodiments, discharge blocking device 100
may further include a manual override segment 330 that is
configured to allow a user to manually switch between locked and
unlocked states, for instance when motor 122 is not responsive,
when power source providing power to the control system is lost,
and the like. In some embodiments, a user may operate manual
override segment 330 using a dedicated key. In some embodiments, a
user may connect an external device to control discharge blocking
device 100 (e.g., via USB cable), and thereby control the
controller, for example managing user settings or upgrading the
software.
[0059] Reference is now made to FIGS. 4A-4B, which show the
discharge blocking device 100 accommodated in a magazine housing of
a compatible firearm 400, with top portion of firearm 400 removed.
FIG. 4A schematically illustrates a perspective view of discharge
blocking device 100 accommodated in the magazine housing of a
firearm 400, and FIG. 4B schematically illustrates a
cross-sectional view of the same 120, according to some embodiments
of the invention.
[0060] It may be appreciated that the user cannot squeeze the
trigger to discharge the firearm (in a locked mode) since, upon
insertion into magazine housing of firearm 400, locking element 140
may prevent any backward movement of trigger bar 440. In order to
allow discharge, the user may change the state of discharge
blocking device 100 from "locked" to "unlocked", for example by
using user identification segment 121 such that locking element 140
moves towards base 120 and no longer protrudes from the discharge
blocking device 100, and then trigger bar 440 may be operated to
discharge the firearm 400.
[0061] Reference is now made to FIGS. 5A-5B, which show a rotating
element discharge blocking device 500 in a locked mode. FIG. 5A
schematically illustrates a right perspective view (with respect to
the shooting direction of the firearm) of a rotating element
discharge blocking device 500, and FIG. 5B schematically
illustrates a left side view of the rotating element discharge
blocking device 500, according to some embodiments of the
invention.
[0062] It is appreciated that rotating element discharge blocking
device 500 (as a safety magazine) according to the invention is
adapted to allow a user, operating a firearm, to block the
discharge by having the safety mechanism (within the discharge
blocking device) in a locked mode, such that the discharge may be
enabled only according to the selection by an authorized user with
the safety mechanism Therefore, in addition to the existing safety
selector on the firearm, rotating element discharge blocking device
500 may provide further means for controlling the firing mode of
the firearm (e.g., locked or unlocked mode), further described
hereinafter.
[0063] Discharge blocking device 500 may include a cover 510 having
a structure that is compatible with some commercially available
magazines for firearms, for instance having a shape and dimensions
corresponding to and adapted to be inserted into a magazine housing
of, for example, a Glock.RTM. handgun. Discharge blocking device
500 may further include a base 520 that at least partially covers a
safety mechanism that is configured to block the discharge.
[0064] In some embodiments, base 520 may have a shape protruding
with respect to cover 510, such that easy gripping (of base 520) by
a user operating the firearm may be allowed for insertion into and
removal from the firearm. It is, therefore, appreciated that only
with the base 520, the difference from commercially available
magazines (for example, a Glock.RTM. handgun) may be observed, when
the safety magazine is inserted into a firearm.
[0065] In some embodiments, cover 510 may have a top segment 530
that is configured to couple with the magazine housing in a
compatible firearm. Top segment 530 may have an opening for
insertion of cartridges therein (e.g., in a single column or
stacked), such that the cartridge that is last inserted partially
protrudes through top segment 530 in order to engage the firearm
upon coupling with the magazine housing. Thus, operation similar to
regular magazines for firearms may be enabled as rotating element
discharge blocking device 500 provides accommodation of cartridges,
and also engagement of these cartridges with the corresponding
firearm upon coupling.
[0066] In some embodiments, cover 510 may further include a recess
580 that corresponds in shape to an external magazine catch in
order to allow locking the position of rotating element discharge
blocking device 500 within the magazine housing once the external
magazine catch is inserted thereto. Thus, cover 510 may provide
features similar to commercially available firearm magazines, as
well as enhanced features for blocking discharge upon the selection
of an authorized user.
[0067] According to some embodiments, rotating element discharge
blocking device 500 may further include a positioning switch 550
which is initially in an "open" state and configured to detect
accommodation of rotating element discharge blocking device 500
within the magazine housing. Positioning switch 550 (e.g., spring
loaded) may be configured to be capable of protruding from base
520, such that upon insertion into the magazine housing of a
firearm, positioning switch 550 may engage the inner wall of the
magazine housing and be forced to move into base 520. Upon
accommodation within the magazine housing and detection thereof,
positioning switch 550 may move back into base 520 and switch to a
"closed" state. In some embodiments, at a "closed" state
positioning switch 550 may engage a corresponding positioning
sensor 555 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6B) that is configured to
provide a signal (e.g., to the central controller) corresponding to
detected states.
[0068] Upon switching to a "closed" state (i.e., detection of
rotating element discharge blocking device 500 within the magazine
housing) by positioning switch 550, a rotating locking element 540
(e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) may be automatically operated to
move to a "locked" mode and block the trigger bar of the firearm so
as to block any discharge until an authorized user switches to
"unlocked" mode. For example, upon insertion into a magazine
housing, positioning switch 550 may engage the inner wall of the
magazine housing and move back into base 520 to engage the
positioning sensor 555 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6B). A corresponding
signal may then be sent to the central controller that rotating
element discharge blocking device 500 is in a "closed state" (e.g.,
within the magazine housing) so as to move rotating projection 542
to a "locked" position blocking the trigger bar. In some
embodiments, in a locked position, rotating projection 542 may
prevent extraction of rotating element discharge blocking device
500 from the firearm and thereby prevent ejection of discharge
blocking device 500 (and replacement with a standard magazine)
until returned to unlocked position.
[0069] It should be noted that, initially, positioning switch 550
may be in an "open" state and rotating locking element 540 is in
"unlocked" mode, such that upon engagement with the magazine
housing positioning switch 550 may switch to "closed" state and
thereby rotating projection 542 moved to a "locked" mode. Thus,
rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may automatically
switch to "locked" mode and prevent discharge upon engagement with
the magazine housing.
[0070] According to some embodiments, rotating element discharge
blocking device 500 may further include a user identification
segment 521. User identification segment 521 may be operably
coupled to the locking mechanism (e.g., inside base 520) within
rotating element discharge blocking device 500 configured to
disable the blocking, i.e., switch to "unlocked" mode upon
identification of an authorized user. User identification segment
521 may include biometric user identification (e.g., fingerprint
identification), password identification with a dedicated user
interface, wireless communication means such as radio frequency or
near field communication, or any other identification means (for
example buttons to be pressed by the user). In some embodiments,
user identification segment 521 may further include storage of ID
data for storing ID data of authorized users. In some embodiments,
rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may further include
at least one indicator that is configured to indicate the locking
mode of rotating element discharge blocking device 500, e.g.,
"locked", "unlocked", "error", etc. In some embodiments, mode of
discharge (and thereby change the indication of the indicator) in
order to change the mode of discharge blocking device 500, for
instance by placing a finger on a fingerprint sensor and
identifying via fingerprint in order to switch the device to an
"unlocked" mode. In some embodiments, changing from "unlocked" to
"locked" mode may be done automatically by the device when the
safety device detects an insertion of safety device into magazine
housing.
[0071] It should be noted that user identification segment 521 and
indicator may be electrically coupled to the locking mechanism so
as to allow control of the locking mode of rotating element
discharge blocking device 500. In some embodiments, a central
controller (e.g., a processing unit) may control the operation of
rotating element discharge blocking device 500. Specifically, such
a controller may control switching between "locked" and "unlocked"
modes based on input from user identification segment 521.
[0072] In some non-limiting embodiments, rotating element discharge
blocking device 500 may further include a power storage unit, e.g.,
a battery, configured to provide power for the locking mechanism,
so as to allow operation of the mechanical elements. In some
embodiments, a battery status indicator may also be provided with
the indicators. It is appreciated that, upon insertion into a
magazine housing, rotating element discharge blocking device 500
may be activated automatically and set to a "locked" state with a
rotating projection 542 of locking element 540, protruding and
blocking the trigger bar of the firearm, as further described in
FIGS. 7A-7B.
[0073] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism (e.g., within
base 520) may further include a communication unit capable of
sending and receiving wireless data (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth,
GPS, or cellular networks). The communication unit may therefore
allow a user to set conditions for the discharge blocking device to
become locked or unlocked, as may be desired. For example, once the
discharge blocking device detects data that indicates that the
firearm is inside an authorized area (for instance data from a GPS
device), then the locking is removed and the firearm may be used.
Alternatively, a dedicated signal may be wirelessly received by the
discharge blocking device such that a user may select that in a
particular time the locking is removed, no matter who operates the
firearm. For example, a training officer at the police academy may
wirelessly remove the locking from multiple firearms that are
scheduled for practice.
[0074] Reference is now made to FIGS. 6A-6B, which show a
cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking
device 500 in an unlocked mode. FIG. 6A schematically illustrates a
right side cross-sectional view (with respect to the shooting
direction of the firearm) of the rotating element discharge
blocking device 500, and FIG. 6B schematically illustrates a left
side cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge
blocking device 500, according to some embodiments of the
invention.
[0075] It may be appreciated that a rotating projection 542 of
rotating locking element 540, accommodated within rotating element
discharge blocking device 500, may be configured to be capable of
protruding from top segment 130 to block discharge of the firearm.
In some embodiments, rotating locking element 540 may be at least
partially accommodated within a wall inside cover 510. When
rotating element discharge blocking device 500 is enabled (e.g., in
an unlocked mode) the firearm may be immediately operated, where
rotating locking element 540 may be configured to allow movement
between locked and unlocked states. It is noted that the operation
of rotating locking element 540 may be configured to allow rotating
locking element 540 to rotatably protrude from rotating element
discharge blocking device 500 in order to engage and/or block a
compatible trigger bar of the firearm so as to push the trigger bar
into a locked position during transition from unlocked state to
locked state and thereby block the discharge. It may be appreciated
that rotating projection 542 may prevent movement of the trigger
bar rearwards, namely towards the back of the barrel of the
firearm, and thereby may prevent and/or block the discharge, as
further described in FIGS. 7A-7B.
[0076] In various embodiments, rotating locking element 540 may be
accommodated within the wall of cover 510. In some embodiments,
rotating locking element 540 may be a rotatable rod configured to
rotate rotating projection 542 between locked and unlocked states
the rod and accommodated within a corner of cover 510, thereby
occupying minimal space and allowing accommodation of bullets
within a dedicated space inside cover 510, thereby allowing use of
standard magazines. It may be appreciated that rotating locking
element may rotate about an axis that is aligned with the
longitudinal dimension of the cover.
[0077] In various embodiments, rotating locking element 540 may
further include a bottom portion 544 that may be in contact with a
sensor 591 that is configured to detect movement of bottom portion
544 between locked and unlocked modes, as further described in FIG.
8. In some embodiments, sensor 591 may be operably coupled to a
central controller 610 that is configured to electrically control
the operation of discharge blocking device 500. In some
embodiments, in case of electrical malfunction, manual operation of
rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may also be
possible, as further described hereinafter.
[0078] According to some embodiments, bottom portion 544 may be
also in contact with a switching element 590 that is configured to
allow switching between locked and unlocked modes. Switching
element 590 may be operationally coupled to a motor 522 (e.g.,
accommodated within base 120) capable of electrically and/or
mechanically moving rotating locking element 540 (as further
described in FIG. 8) between locked and unlocked modes. In some
embodiments, rotational movement of switching element 590 may move
bottom portion 544 coupled thereto and thereby rotate locking
element 540 between locked and unlocked states.
[0079] According to some embodiments, base 520 may include a bottom
cover 620 configured to cover a manual override segment that is
configured to allow a user to manually switch between locked and
unlocked states, for instance when motor 522 is not responsive. In
some embodiments, a user may operate the manual override segment
using a dedicated key. In some embodiments, a user may connect an
external device to control discharge blocking device 500 (e.g., via
USB cable), and thereby control the controller, for example
managing user settings or upgrading the software.
[0080] Reference is now made to FIGS. 7A-7B, which schematically
illustrate a partial perspective view of rotating element discharge
blocking device 500 adjacent to a trigger bar 700 in locked and
unlocked modes, respectively, according to some embodiments of the
invention. In various embodiments, rotation of rotating locking
element 540 may rotate rotating projection 542 and thereby allow
blocking of trigger bar 700.
[0081] It may be appreciated that the user cannot squeeze the
trigger to discharge the firearm (in a locked mode) since upon
insertion into magazine housing of a compatible firearm, rotating
projection 542 of rotating locking element 540 may prevent any
backward movement of trigger bar 700. In order to allow discharge,
an authorized user may change the state of discharge blocking
device 500 from "locked" to "unlocked", for example by using user
identification segment 521 such that rotating projection 542 moves
towards cover 510 and no longer projects from the discharge
blocking device 500, and then trigger bar 700 may be operated to
discharge the firearm 400.
[0082] Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which schematically
illustrates a cross-sectional view of rotating element discharge
blocking device 500, showing the locking mechanism within base 520
wherein the cross-section is carried out perpendicular to user
identification segment 521, according to some embodiments of the
invention. Base 520 may include a motor gear 822 operably coupled
to motor 522, wherein central controller 610 is configured to send
a signal to motor 522 to rotate motor gear 822. In some
embodiments, motor gear 822 may be rotated manually, for instance
using the manual override segment.
[0083] In some embodiments, motor gear 822 may be coupled to
switching element 590 (e.g., a gear) such that rotation of motor
gear 822 may consequently rotate switching element 590. In some
embodiments, motor gear 822 may be operably coupled to bottom
portion 544 of rotating locking element 540 such that rotation of
motor gear 822 may also move bottom portion 544. It may be
appreciated that FIG. 8 shows rotating element discharge blocking
device 500 in an unlocked mode with bottom portion 544 adjacent to
motor gear 822, and a dashed line indicated the position of bottom
portion 540b in a locked mode, being adjacent to switching element
590.
[0084] In some embodiments, switching from unlocked mode to locked
mode may move motor gear 822 (and consequently rotate switching
element 590) so as to move bottom portion 544 from being adjacent
to motor gear 822 to being adjacent to switching element 590, and
vice versa. It may be appreciated that movement of bottom portion
544 may accordingly rotate rotating locking element 540 and thereby
rotate rotating projection 542 to switch between locked and
unlocked modes.
[0085] Reference is now made to FIG. 9, which shows a flow chart
for a method of blocking discharge in a firearm, according to some
embodiments of the invention. The method may include inserting a
cover of the magazine into the magazine housing 910 and then
engaging a locking element of the magazine with the trigger bar
920.
[0086] Unless explicitly stated, the method embodiments described
herein are not constrained to a particular order in time or
chronological sequence. Additionally, some of the described method
elements can be skipped, or they can be repeated, during a sequence
of operations of a method.
[0087] Various embodiments have been presented. Each of these
embodiments may of course include features from other embodiments
presented, and embodiments not specifically described may include
various features described herein.
* * * * *