U.S. patent application number 16/185308 was filed with the patent office on 2019-03-14 for firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Hogue, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Hogue, Inc.. Invention is credited to James David Bruhns.
Application Number | 20190078856 16/185308 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58720123 |
Filed Date | 2019-03-14 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20190078856 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bruhns; James David |
March 14, 2019 |
FIREARM HANDGRIP ASSEMBLY WITH LASER GUNSIGHT SYSTEM
Abstract
A firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system has a
first module, a second module, a flexible web element
interconnected between the first module and the second module, each
of the first and second modules including at least one electronic
component selected from the group of a battery contact, a
processor, a beam projector, and a switch, the web element
including an electrical conductor connecting between an electronic
component on the first module to an electronic component on the
second module, a first grip panel defining a first module recess
adapted to receive the first module while the first grip panel
contacts the frame, a second grip panel defining a second module
recess adapted to receive the second module while the second grip
panel contacts the frame.
Inventors: |
Bruhns; James David;
(Templeton, CA) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Hogue, Inc. |
Henderson |
NV |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Hogue, Inc.
Henderson
NV
|
Family ID: |
58720123 |
Appl. No.: |
16/185308 |
Filed: |
November 9, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15403086 |
Jan 10, 2017 |
10156423 |
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16185308 |
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15265458 |
Sep 14, 2016 |
9791240 |
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15403086 |
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14964503 |
Dec 9, 2015 |
9453702 |
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15265458 |
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14592976 |
Jan 9, 2015 |
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14964503 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41C 23/22 20130101;
F41G 1/35 20130101; F41C 23/10 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41C 23/10 20060101
F41C023/10; F41C 23/22 20060101 F41C023/22; F41G 1/35 20060101
F41G001/35 |
Claims
1. A grip assembly for a firearm having a frame having a grip
portion with opposed first and second sides, the grip assembly
comprising: a first module adapted to overlay and connect to a
selected portion of the first side of the grip portion; a second
module adapted to overlay and connect to a selected portion of the
second side of the grip portion; a connection element
interconnected between the first module and the second module; each
of the first and second modules including at least one electronic
component selected from the group of a battery contact, a
processor, a beam projector, and a switch; the connection element
including an electrical conductor connecting between an electronic
component on the first module to an electronic component on the
second module; a first grip panel adapted to overlay and connect to
a selected portion of the first side of the grip portion; the first
grip panel defining a first module recess adapted to receive the
first module while the first grip panel contacts the frame; a
second grip panel adapted to overlay and connect to a selected
portion of the second side of the grip portion; and the second grip
panel defining a second module recess adapted to receive the second
module while the second grip panel contacts the frame.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
15/403,086 filed on Jan. 10, 2017, entitled "FIREARM HANDGRIP
ASSEMBLY WITH LASER GUNSIGHT SYSTEM," which is a
Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/265,458
filed on Sep. 14, 2016, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,791,240,
entitled "FIREARM HANDGRIP ASSEMBLY WITH LASER GUNSIGHT SYSTEM,"
which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
14/964,503 filed on Dec. 9, 2015, now issued as U.S. Pat. No.
9,453,702, entitled "FIREARM HANDGRIP ASSEMBLY WITH LASER GUNSIGHT
SYSTEM," which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 14/592,976 filed on Jan. 9, 2015, entitled "FIREARM HANDGRIP
ASSEMBLY WITH LASER GUNSIGHT SYSTEM."
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to firearm grip assemblies for
handguns, and more particularly to a device that replaces the
standard factory-supplied firearm handgrips without requiring
significant modification of the firearm and enhances the
functionality of the firearm by providing a laser gunsight operable
by the user while the firearm is gripped by the handgrip in the
firing position.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Lasers are commonly used for firearm sighting when light
conditions are poor, such as at night or in the darkened rooms of
buildings. They are often used by police and military users of
firearms, who need to be able to quickly and accurately aim the
firearm at a poorly-illuminated target under low light conditions.
They are increasingly popular for use with handguns, which are
otherwise potentially difficult to aim and shoot accurately.
[0004] Laser sights have been developed that employ a
battery-powered laser that has been sighted-in so that the laser
illuminates the firearm's point of impact. The target reflects the
laser beam back to the user, which informs the user exactly where
the firearm is aimed and where the bullet will impact if the
firearm is fired.
[0005] Various laser gunsight systems have been developed for use
with firearms that are equipped with a handgrip. One example is the
LG-401 LASERGRIPS.RTM. manufactured by Crimson Trace.RTM. of
Wilsonville, Oreg. The standard factory-supplied grips are removed
from the firearm and replaced by two panels that are screwed onto
the firearm's frame. The two panels are connected by a front
activation pad that wraps around the front strap of the firearm's
handgrip. The handgrip is grasped by the user's hand when the
firearm is being held in the firing position, and a laser attached
to the top of the right grip is turned on while the front
activation pad is depressed. The laser housing includes set screws
to adjust the laser's elevation and windage when the laser is
sighted-in by firing rounds at a target and noting any aiming
error. The two batteries are capable of powering the laser for
about four hours of illumination.
[0006] However, the LG-401 LASERGRIPS.RTM. has a significant
disadvantage in that the sighting-in process of the laser has to be
repeated every time the batteries are changed. One of the two
batteries cannot be replaced unless the right grip holding the
laser is removed from the firearm so the battery can be accessed
and replaced. When the right grip is reattached, there is no
guarantee the laser beam will still accurately reflect the
firearm's point of impact. Battery replacement is recommended at
least annually, and even more frequently for heavy users, which
creates considerable inconvenience if a shooting range is not
readily available. Furthermore, if the batteries begin to fail or
experience a complete failure in the field, the user cannot replace
them without taking the chance that the laser beam will no longer
accurately indicate the firearm's point of impact.
[0007] The LG-401 LASERGRIPS.RTM. has an additional disadvantage in
that its exterior mimics the standard hard factory-supplied firearm
grips for handguns. It is often desirable to utilize firearm
handgrip assemblies composed of rubber or other relatively soft
elastomers instead. The use of a soft firearm handgrip assembly
provides the user with a more secure grip. Such firearm handgrip
assemblies often include ergonomic features such as finger ridges
and palm swells to provide adequate security for holding the gun
during recoil. The firearm handgrip assemblies may also provide a
larger grip circumference than the standard factory-supply firearm
handgrips to accommodate users with larger hands. Firearm grip
assemblies may include rigid inserts for reinforcement of the
elastomer material.
[0008] Therefore, a need exists for a new and improved firearm
handgrip assembly that provides a laser gunsight system with
batteries that can be changed without detaching the laser from the
firearm and that provides ergonomic features. In this regard, the
various embodiments of the present invention substantially fulfill
at least some of these needs. In this respect, the firearm handgrip
assembly according to the present invention substantially departs
from the conventional concepts and designs of the prior art, and in
doing so provides an apparatus primarily developed for the purpose
of providing a laser gunsight system with batteries that can be
changed without detaching the laser from the firearm and providing
ergonomic features.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention provides an improved firearm handgrip
assembly with laser gunsight system, and overcomes the
above-mentioned disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art. As
such, the general purpose of the present invention, which will be
described subsequently in greater detail, is to provide an improved
firearm grip sleeve with laser gunsight system that has all the
advantages of the prior art mentioned above.
[0010] To attain this, the preferred embodiment of the present
invention essentially comprises a first module adapted to overlay
and connect to a selected portion of the first side of the grip
portion, a second module adapted to overlay and connect to a
selected portion of the second side of the grip portion, a flexible
web element interconnected between the first module and the second
module, each of the first and second modules including at least one
electronic component selected from the group of a battery contact,
a processor, a beam projector, and a switch, the web element
including an electrical conductor connecting between an electronic
component on the first module to an electronic component on the
second module, a first grip panel adapted to overlay and connect to
a selected portion of the first side of the grip portion, the first
grip panel defining a first module recess adapted to receive the
first module while the first grip panel contacts the frame, a
second grip panel adapted to overlay and connect to a selected
portion of the second side of the grip portion, and the second grip
panel defining a second module recess adapted to receive the second
module while the second grip panel contacts the frame. There are,
of course, additional features of the invention that will be
described hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the
claims attached.
[0011] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more
important features of the invention in order that the detailed
description thereof that follows may be better understood and in
order that the present contribution to the art may be better
appreciated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a front isometric view of the current embodiment
of a firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system
constructed in accordance with the principles of the present
invention installed on the pistol frame of a M1911-type pistol.
[0013] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the current embodiment of the
firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system of FIG. 1.
[0014] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the right side of the current
embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight
system of FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the left side of the current
embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight
system of FIG. 1.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the current embodiment of the
firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system of FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the programming state program for
use with current embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly with
laser gunsight system of FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the overmold process for the
current embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly with laser
gunsight system of FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the upper and lower battery
pockets of the current embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly
with laser gunsight system of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a top angled sectional view of the upper battery
pocket of the current embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly
with laser gunsight system of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the right side of the current
embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight
system installed on the pistol frame of a M1911-type pistol.
[0022] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the activation switch pocket
of FIG. 10 denoted by the circled portion 11.
[0023] FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the right side of the current
embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight
system of FIG. 1.
[0024] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of the laser pocket of FIG. 12
denoted by the circled portion 13.
[0025] FIG. 14 is a sectional view of the right side of the current
embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight
system of FIG. 1.
[0026] FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken along line 15-15 of FIG.
14.
[0027] FIG. 16 is a sectional view taken along line 16-16 of FIG.
14.
[0028] FIG. 17 is a front isometric view of an alternative
embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight
system constructed in accordance with the principles of the present
invention installed on the pistol frame of a M1911-type pistol.
[0029] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of
the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system of FIG.
17.
[0030] FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of
the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system of FIG.
17.
[0031] FIG. 20 is an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of
the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system of FIG.
17.
[0032] FIG. 21 is a right side view of the alternative embodiment
of the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system of FIG.
17.
[0033] FIG. 22 is a sectional view taken along line 21-21 of FIG.
21.
[0034] FIG. 23 is a left side view of the alternative embodiment of
the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system of FIG.
17.
[0035] FIG. 24 is a sectional view taken along line 24-24 of FIG.
23.
[0036] FIG. 25 is a sectional view taken along line 25-25 of FIG.
17.
[0037] FIG. 26 is an enlarged view of circled area 26 of FIG.
25.
[0038] FIG. 27 is a sectional view taken along line 27-27 of FIG.
17.
[0039] FIG. 28 is an enlarged view of circled area 28 of FIG.
27.
[0040] The same reference numerals refer to the same parts
throughout the various figures.
DESCRIPTION OF THE CURRENT EMBODIMENT
[0041] An embodiment of the firearm handgrip assembly with laser
gunsight system of the present invention is shown and generally
designated by the reference numeral 10.
[0042] FIGS. 1-4 illustrate the improved firearm handgrip assembly
with laser gunsight system 10 of the present invention for use with
a pistol having removable grips. This type of pistol typically has
a molded plastic grip with a curved exterior to be comfortably
received in a user's hand. The pistol includes a removable back
strap insert (not shown). Only the frame 200 of the pistol is
illustrated for clarity. More particularly, the one-piece
integrally molded plastic frame shown is for an M1911 pistol.
[0043] The frame 200 has a downwardly-extending handgrip 202 that
angles slightly rearward and is a tubular body defining an
elongated well 204 capable of closely receiving a removable
magazine (not shown). The handgrip has a lower free end 206. The
grip has flat or gently curved right and left side portions 208,
210, a straight semi-cylindrical front strap 212 facing forward,
and a curved back strap recess 214 facing rearward. The handgrip
generally has an oblong, oval or "racetrack" cross-section. At the
upper end of the front strap, a trigger guard 216 projects forward
and upward to protect the trigger (not shown) from accidental
activation. A magazine release (not shown) protrudes transversely
from the frame in front of the handgrip through a magazine release
aperture 218. The back strap extends nearly to the upper edge 220
of the frame, curving rearward at its upper portion. A beavertail
protrusion portion 222 of the frame protrudes rearward at the upper
end of the back strap recess.
[0044] The pistol frame 200 includes two screw holes on each of the
left and right side portions of the handgrip 202 (screw holes 224,
226 on the right side portion 208 are visible; screw hole 256 on
the left side portion 210 is visible in FIG. 20; screw hole 258 on
the left side portion is visible in FIG. 17) that receive screws to
attach standard factory-supplied grips (not shown) or replacement
grips such as those provided by the firearm handgrip assembly with
laser gunsight system 10. When the pistol frame is assembled for
use, it also includes a back strap insert (not shown), which is a
curved insert that is normally located on the rear of the grip
immediately below the beavertail. The back strap insert is received
by the back strap recess and has mating features that engage with
the handgrip. Specifically, the pistol frame includes one screw
hole 228, 230 on each of the left and right side portions adjacent
to the lower free end 206 to secure the back strap insert. With the
back strap insert and the grips installed, the handgrip has a
curved and continuous surface to provide a secure comfortable grip,
in the manner of any pistol. With the back strap and grips removed,
the handgrip has discontinuities, steps, cavities, and other
features that render it unsuitable for use.
[0045] The firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 10
of the present invention includes an exterior skin 12 with a top
14, a bottom 16, a left side 18, a right side 20, a front 22, and
an interior surface 24. FIGS. 3 and 4 depict the firearm handgrip
assembly with laser gunsight system 10 as if it were composed of
discrete first and second grip body halves with a flexible
connection portion for clarity, but the exterior skin 12 is
continuous in the current embodiment. As a result, the flexible
connection portion provides a continuous external surface of the
firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 10 when the
firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system is connected
to a frame 200. The top of the exterior skin defines a U-shaped
trigger guard notch 26. The trigger guard notch provides clearance
for the trigger guard 216. The right side of the trigger guard
notch includes a magazine release notch 28. The magazine release
notch 28 provides clearance for the magazine release aperture 218.
The bottom of the exterior skin defines a notch 30, 32 on each
side. The notches 30, 32 provide clearance for the back strap
insert holes 228, 230. The roles of the notches 28, 30, 32 are best
shown in FIG. 1.
[0046] A plurality of ridges 34 extends from the front 22 of the
exterior skin 12. The ridges define a plurality of grooves between
the ridges that receive the user's fingers when the pistol is held
in a firing position. The front of the exterior skin also defines
an activation switch cover 36 and a hinge 38. The activation switch
cover is a flexible membrane in the current embodiment. The hinge
joins the left side 18 of the exterior skin to the right side 20 of
the exterior skin. The left and right sides of the exterior skin
each define two screw holes (screw holes 40, 42 on the right side
and screw holes 44, 46 on the left side). The screw holes on the
exterior skin are axially registered with the screw holes 224, 226
on the pistol frame 200 so factory-supplied grip screws (not shown)
can be used to secure the exterior skin to the handgrip 202.
[0047] The top 14 of the right side 20 of the exterior skin 12
exposes a right plate 56 that includes a laser housing 102. The
laser housing has a forward facing aperture 104 that exposes the
front 108 of a beam projection element in the form of laser diode
106. The laser housing is positioned immediately below the upper
edge 220 so the laser housing does not obstruct reciprocation of
the slide (not shown) above the upper edge. The laser housing
includes a windage screw 112 and an elevation screw 114 that adjust
the position of the front of the laser diode to control the point
of aim of a laser beam emitted by the laser diode through the
forward facing aperture.
[0048] The interior surface 48 of the exterior skin 12 defines a
left plate pocket 50 on the left side 18 and a right plate pocket
52 on the right side 20 (shown in FIG. 7). The plate pockets
receive a left plate 54 and the right plate 56, respectively, which
are rigid. The front 22 of the interior surface of the exterior
skin defines a front flex cable channel 58 that communicates
between the left and right plate pockets. The front flex cable
channel defines an activation switch pocket 60 at its midpoint. The
interior surface of the exterior skin includes additional features
that will be described in detail in the discussion of FIG. 5.
[0049] The left plate 54 defines an upper battery pocket 62, a
lower battery pocket 64, an upper void 66, a lower void 68, a
negative contact pocket 70, a negative contact post 72, a positive
contact pocket 74, a positive contact post 76, two screw holes 78,
80, and a notch 82. The two screw holes are axially aligned with
the screw holes 44, 46 on the left side of the exterior skin 12.
The notch is aligned with the notch 32 on the bottom 16 of the
exterior skin. The upper and lower battery pockets include
additional features that will be described in detail in the
discussion of FIGS. 5-7.
[0050] The right plate 56 defines a laser diode pocket 84, a wires
channel 86, a control circuit receptacle in the form of a PC board
pocket 88, a mode selector switch pocket 90, a lower flex cable
channel 92, a safety switch pocket 94, a bottom aperture 96, four
PC board posts 98, two lower portion posts 100, two screw holes
158, 160, a notch 162, and a notch 182. The two screw holes are
axially aligned with the screw holes 40, 42 on the right side of
the exterior skin 12. The notch 162 is aligned with the notch 32 on
the bottom 16 of the exterior skin. The notch 182 is aligned with
the magazine release notch 28 on the exterior skin.
[0051] When the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight
system 10 is assembled for use, the left and right plates 54, 56
and the interior surface 48 of the exterior skin 12 receive the
laser gunsight system components of the present invention. More
particularly, the laser gunsight system components include a laser
diode 106, a circular coil spring 198, wires 236, a flex cable
assembly 116, a PC board 118, a positive contact 120, a negative
contact 122, an activation switch 124, a mode selection switch 126,
a safety switch 128, upper and lower batteries 130, 132, and a
cover plate 134. The laser diode has a front beam emitting end 108
and an opposed rear end 110. The flex cable assembly includes an
upper portion 136 that defines four apertures 138, a conductive
front flex cable 140 with a left end 142 that defines an aperture
144, a conductive lower flex cable 146, and a lower portion 148
that defines two apertures 150. The PC board defines four apertures
152 that are axially aligned with the four apertures in the upper
portion of the flex cable assembly. The positive contact defines an
aperture 154. The negative contact defines an aperture 156.
[0052] When the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight
system 10 is assembled for use, the left and right plates 54, 56
and the interior surface 48 of the exterior skin 12 receive the
laser gunsight system components of the present invention. More
particularly, the laser diode pocket 84 receives the laser diode
106 and spring 198. The wires 236 electrically connect the laser
diode to the upper portion 134 of the flex cable assembly 116 and
are received within the wires channel 86. The PC board pocket 88
receives the PC board 118 and the upper portion 136 of the flex
cable assembly 116. The apertures 152 in the PC board and the
apertures 138 in the upper portion receive the PC board posts 98 to
secure and align the PC board and upper portion within the PC board
pocket. The lower flex cable 146 electrically connects the upper
portion to the front flex cable 140 and the lower portion 148 and
is received within the lower flex cable channel 92. The safety
switch pocket 94 receives the safety switch 128 and the lower
portion. The safety switch is aligned with the aperture 96, and the
apertures 150 in the lower portion receive the lower portion posts
100 to secure and align the lower portion and the safety switch
within the safety switch pocket.
[0053] The activation switch 124 is received within the activation
switch pocket 60. The activation switch is electrically connected
to the midpoint of the front flex cable 140, which is received
within the front flex cable channel 58. The left end 142 of the
front flex cable and the positive contact 120 are electrically
connected and received within the positive contact pocket 74. The
aperture 144 in the left end and the aperture 154 in the positive
contact receive the positive contact post 76 to secure and align
the left end and positive contact within the positive contact
pocket. The negative contact 122 is received within the negative
contact pocket 70 and is electrically connected to the left end of
the front flex cable. The aperture 156 in the negative contact
receives the negative contact post 72 to secure and align the
negative contact within the negative contact pocket. The cover
plate 134 serves to further secure the left end, positive contact,
and negative contact within their respective pockets. The upper
battery 130 is received within the upper battery pocket 62, and the
lower battery 132 is received within the lower battery pocket 64 to
provide a power storage facility.
[0054] In the current embodiment, the safety switch 128 enables the
laser gunsight system to be operable when in the on position and to
be inoperable when in the off position. The activation switch 124
is a momentary switch that enables the upper and lower batteries
130, 132 to power the laser diode 106 when depressed and prevents
the laser diode from being powered when released. The mode
selection switch 126 determines the characteristics of the laser
beam emitted by the laser diode. The available laser beam modes
enabled when the activation switch is depressed can include
continuously on at full power, dimmed, strobe, and momentary
flicker. The mode can be changed by pressing and holding the mode
selection switch for five seconds to enter a programming state,
whereby the user can change the laser beam mode. To facilitate the
user's ability to locate the mode selection switch, the exterior
skin 12 may be marked with an indicium 244, such as a logo.
[0055] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the improved firearm
handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 10 of the present
invention. More particularly, the pc board 118 includes memory 248
connected to a Central Processing Unit (CPU) 246 and the mode
selection switch 126. The memory stores the current program mode
250 and brightness setting 252, as well as programming state
program 300. The CPU uses the current program mode and brightness
setting to control the laser beam emitted by the laser diode 106
when the safety switch 128 is in the on position and the activation
switch 124 is actuated. When the activation switch is actuated, the
CPU controls the flow of electricity from batteries 130, 132 to
laser diode 106 to produce a laser beam having the characteristics
prescribed by the current program mode and brightness setting.
[0056] The firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 10
(including the laser beam emitting laser diode 106 and controller
CPU 246 with connected memory 248) has three switches connected to
the controller. The first switch (safety switch 128) is an on-off
switch that prevents any operation when in a first position, and
enables operation when in a second position. The safety switch is
stable in each position so that it remains in the selected position
when set and released. A second switch (activation switch 124) is a
momentary switch that is accessible for operation in a location
while the user is gripping the gun for firing. The activation
switch has an on and an off position, and is biased to the off
position so that it is in the on position only when pressure is
applied by the user. A third switch (mode selection switch 126)
establishes the operating mode when the safety switch and
activation switch are both on. The mode selection switch is also a
momentary switch that is biased to an open position, and which
sends a signal to the controller circuitry in response to momentary
pressure (a tap or push). The controller has several operating
modes, and sequential pushes on the mode selection switch cycle the
controller through the different operating modes. The available
operating modes will be discussed subsequently in the description
of FIG. 6.
[0057] The first switch (safety switch 128) is preferably a toggle
switch located in a recess at the base of one of the grip panels
(left and right plates 54, 56), so that it is not accidentally
switched, but may be switched only by deliberate action with a
fingernail or small tool. The second switch (activation switch 124)
is preferably located on the front strap 212 of a pistol handgrip
202 below the trigger guard 216, where the activation switch rests
under the user's middle finger as it naturally grips the gun. The
third switch (mode selection switch 126) is preferably located in
the middle of a grip panel, under a distinctive feature such as a
logo medallion (indicium 244) to enable a user to locate it.
Operation of the mode selection switch requires a deliberate
pressure with a fingertip.
[0058] The activation and mode selection switches 124, 126 include
a flexible exterior skin membrane 12 covering them (activation
switch cover 36 and indicium 244). The membrane is coextensive to
cover the grip panels (left and right plates 54, 56) to provide a
resilient gripping surface.
[0059] When the firearm handgrip is gripped by a user's hand for
firing, the activation switch 124 will be covered by the user's
finger for selectable actuation, mode selection switch 126 will be
covered by the palm of the user's hand to prevent actuation, and
the safety switch 128 will be away from the user's hand to avoid
actuation. The controller has electrical connections to each of the
three switches.
[0060] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the programming state program 300
for use with the improved firearm handgrip assembly with laser
gunsight system 10 of the present invention. More particularly, the
program starts (310) by checking if the mode selection switch 126
has been depressed for 5 seconds (312). If the mode selection
switch has been depressed for five seconds, the CPU 246 retrieves
the current program mode 250 and brightness setting 252 from memory
248. Subsequently, the CPU causes the laser diode 106 to illuminate
in the manner prescribed by the current program mode and brightness
setting (316). If the mode selection switch has been depressed
within the last five seconds (318), the CPU changes the current
program mode to the next program mode and stores the change as the
current program mode in memory 248. The program then returns to
step 316, which gives the user an opportunity to view the result
and make additional changes to the characteristics of the laser
beam if desired.
[0061] If the mode selection switch 126 has not been depressed
within the last five seconds at step 318, the program checks if the
activation switch 124 has been depressed within the last five
seconds (322). If the activation switch has been depressed within
the last five seconds, the CPU 246 changes the current brightness
setting to the next brightness setting and stores the change as the
current brightness setting in memory 248. The program then returns
to step 316, which gives the user an opportunity to view the result
and make additional changes to the characteristics of the laser
beam if desired. Once five seconds have passed without the user
pressing either the mode selection switch or the activation switch,
the program ends (326).
[0062] In the current embodiment, the mode selection switch 126 is
used to cycle between flashing, stealth target, or steady modes. In
flashing mode, the laser will blink twice per second while the
activation switch 124 is depressed. In stealth target mode, a press
of the activation switch activates a burst of three quick flashes
of the laser beam, then the laser diode turns off for stealth
targeting. This mode will repeat with each press of the activation
button. The user can hold the activation button down to override
the stealth target mode and enter steady mode. In steady mode,
pressing and holding the activation button results in a continuous
laser beam.
[0063] In the current embodiment, the activation switch 124 is used
in the programming state to set one of three levels of laser beam
brightness. Each time the activation switch is pressed and released
in the programming state, the laser beam's brightness will be
reduced by one level. After the minimum brightness level setting is
reached, the next press of the activation switch will return the
laser beam's brightness to the maximum brightness setting.
[0064] FIG. 7 illustrates the overmold process used to manufacture
the improved firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system
10 of the present invention. More particularly, in the current
embodiment the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system
10 is a unitary molded piece comprising two materials. The exterior
skin 12 is made of thermoplastic elastomer in the current
embodiment. However, the exterior skin may be any elastomeric
material preferably having a minimum durometer hardness of 30 A in
order to provide adequate firmness to retain shape and resist
dislocation, and preferably having a hardness of no more than 80 A
so the material maintains sufficient elasticity to be comfortable
to grip. The left and right plates 54, 56 are a rigid material,
which is a hard plastic element molded into the rubber exterior
skin in the current embodiment. It is desirable for the two
materials to form a chemical bond between them. Such a molding
process is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,301,817 (Hogue et al.).
[0065] Prior to the overmolding process, the exterior skin 12, left
plate 54, right plate 56, cover plate 134, and PC board 118 are
fabricated as discrete components. The interior surface 24 of the
exterior skin includes upper protrusions 168, 170 and lower
protrusions 172, 174 on the left side 18. The upper protrusions are
aligned with apertures 178, 190 formed in the upper battery pocket
62 of the left plate when the left plate is molded into the left
plate pocket 50 in the exterior skin. The lower protrusions are
aligned with apertures 180, 196 formed in the lower battery pocket
64 of the left plate when the left plate is molded into the left
plate pocket in the exterior skin.
[0066] An aperture 176 is present at the bottom 16 of the right
side 20 of the exterior skin 12. The aperture is aligned with the
aperture 96 in the bottom of the right plate 56 when the right
plate is molded into the right plate pocket 52 in the exterior
skin. The apertures enable the user to access the safety switch 128
while the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 10
is installed on a pistol frame 200.
[0067] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate the improved upper and lower
battery pockets 62, 64 of the present invention. More particularly,
the apertures 178, 190 in the upper battery pocket and the
apertures 180, 196 in the lower battery pocket enable the upper
protrusions 168, 170 and lower protrusions 172, 174 to enter into
the upper and lower battery compartments during the overmolding
process and fit into undercuts beneath the upper battery retention
surfaces 182, 184 and lower battery retention surfaces 186, 188. To
prevent the upper and lower protrusions from distorting during the
overmolding process, dummy upper battery 164 and dummy lower
battery 166 are inserted into the upper and lower battery pockets
prior to molding. The dummy upper and lower batteries serve as
supports for the thin upper and lower protrusion membranes during
the overmolding process. The dummy upper and lower batteries are
then removed from the upper and lower battery compartments.
[0068] The upper and lower protrusions serve to hold the upper and
lower batteries 130, 132 in place despite any shock or vibration
that the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 10
may experience. The upper and lower batteries are firmly held in
place yet easily removable because of the presence of upper void 66
and lower void 68. The upper and lower voids make the upper battery
retention surface 182 and lower battery retention surface 186 thin
and flexible. As a result, the user can flex the upper and lower
battery retention surfaces into the upper and lower voids in order
to remove the upper and lower batteries. The replacement upper and
lower batteries will then flex the upper and lower battery
retention surfaces into the upper and lower voids when the
batteries are inserted, and the upper and lower battery retention
surfaces will then snap back into place to firmly hold the
batteries.
[0069] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate the improved activation switch
cover 36 and activation switch pocket 60 of the present invention.
More particularly, the activation switch pocket is located in the
middle of the front 22 of the interior surface 24 of the exterior
skin 12 and is in communication with the front flex cable channel
58. The activation switch pocket receives the activation switch
124. The activation switch is held in an angled forward position
parallel to the activation switch cover 36 by two
elastomeric/compressible flaps 238, 240. The flaps are shaped to
support the activation switch in that position. The activation
switch cover 36 is a membrane that both protects the activation
switch from the external environment and flexes to allow the
activation switch to be actuated when the user squeezes the
activation switch cover. The underside of the activation switch
cover defines an elastomeric bump 242 that contacts the activation
switch.
[0070] The elastomeric/compressible flaps 238, 240 further provide
a compressible backing support for the activation switch 124. The
compressible backing support and the elastomeric bump 242 enable
the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 10 to
accommodate variations in frame tolerances between M1911 pistols
produced by different manufacturers. If the activation switch
pocket did not include a compressible backing support and
elastomeric bump, the amount of pressure required to actuate the
activation switch would vary considerably depending on the specific
M1911 pistol frame the firearm handgrip assembly with laser
gunsight system 10 was attached to. Substantial variability in
actuation pressure could be problematic for both manufacturing
quality control and for the user. By using both the elastomeric
bump and the two elastomeric/compressible flaps, minimally variable
actuation pressure is achieved regardless of which M1911 pistol
frame the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 10
is attached to.
[0071] FIGS. 12-16 illustrate the improved laser housing 102 and
laser diode 106 of the present invention. More particularly, the
rear 110 of the laser diode has a central bore 194 that receives
one end of the circular coil spring 198. The circular coil spring
not only provides stress relief for the wires 236 as the wires
enter the wires channel 86, but the spring also urges the exterior
surface 192 of the laser diode against the windage screw 112 and
elevation screw 114, thereby fixing the laser diode in place within
the laser diode pocket 84 of the laser housing. As a result, the
point of aim of a laser beam emitted by the front 108 of the laser
diode through the front facing aperture 104 of the laser housing
along optical axis 254 is determined and can be adjusted by the
extent to which the windage screw and elevation screw penetrate
into the laser diode pocket. Curved surfaces 232, 234 adjacent to
the front facing aperture form a socket that engages with the
spherical surface portion of the front of laser diode to form a
ball and socket joint, which enables the front of the laser diode
to pivot within the socket. The spring also serves to bias the
spherical surface portion of the front of the laser diode towards
the socket.
[0072] In use, the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight
system 10 is installed on the standard factory-supplied handgrip
202 of a pistol with removable grips. To attach the firearm
handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 10, the grips are
removed from the handgrip by unscrewing the factory-supplied screws
from the handgrip. Subsequently, the right plate 56 is attached to
the right side 208 of the handgrip using the factory supplied
screws, the front 22 of the exterior skin 12 is wrapped around the
front strap 212 below the trigger guard 216, and the left plate 54
is attached to the left side 210 of the handgrip using the factory
supplied screws.
[0073] The firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 10
is then ready to undergo the sighting-in procedure. While squeezing
the activation switch cover 36 to activate the laser diode 106, the
user fires a few rounds at a target. After noting where the bullets
are striking relative to the laser beam reflection on the target is
located, the user adjusts the windage screw 112 and/or the
elevation screw 114 until subsequent fired rounds impact where the
laser beam reflection on the target is located. The laser diode
will remain sighted-in until the right plate 56 is loosened or
detached from the handgrip 202.
[0074] Although the upper and lower batteries 130, 132 will provide
sufficient power for the laser diode 106 to illuminate for several
hours, the batteries eventually require replacement. Fortunately,
both batteries can be replaced without loosening or detaching the
right plate 56 from the handgrip 202. Instead, the user merely
detaches the left plate 54 from the left side 210 of the handgrip
by unscrewing the factory-supplied screws on the outside while the
right plate remains firmly secured to the handgrip. The spent
batteries are removed, new batteries are inserted, and the left
plate is reattached to the left side of the handgrip without any
disturbance to the position of the right plate or the laser diode.
As a result, both batteries can be replaced without requiring the
user to repeat the sighting-in process since no point of aim error
can be introduced by the battery change process. Optionally,
different screw types or screw caps could be used for the left
plate and right plate to convey which plate is intended to be
removed for routine access and which is not intended to be
removed.
[0075] FIGS. 17-20 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the
improved firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 400
of the present invention for use with a pistol having removable
grips. This type of pistol typically has a molded plastic grip with
a curved exterior to be comfortably received in a user's hand. The
pistol includes a removable back strap insert (not shown). Only the
frame 200 of the pistol is illustrated for clarity. More
particularly, the one-piece integrally molded plastic frame shown
is for an M1911 pistol.
[0076] The firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 400
of the present invention has a laser device assembly 412, a right
grip panel 512, and a left grip panel 538. The laser device
assembly includes a circuit housing 414 having a top 416, bottom
418, front 420, rear 422, and exterior 424. The circuit housing is
adapted to overlay and connect to a selected portion of the right
side 208 of the grip portion 202. The exterior of the circuit
housing defines an on/off switch hole 426, a mode switch hole 428,
and a screw hole 432. The front of the circuit housing defines a
notch 430. The top of the circuit housing includes a laser housing
434 having a windage screw 436, and elevation screw 568 (shown in
FIG. 23), and a front aperture 438. The laser housing receives a
laser diode 440 having a front 442 and a rear 444. A biasing spring
446 abuts the rear of the laser diode. The laser diode is secured
within the laser housing by a laser diode cover plate 448. The
laser diode cover plate has an interior 450 that includes a front
cradle 452 and a rear cradle 454 that receive the front and rear of
the laser diode.
[0077] An on/off switch 456 has a switch transfer bar 458 that
protrudes through the on/off switch hole 426 in the circuit housing
414. A mode switch 496 that protrudes through the mode switch hole
428. A PCB cover plate 460 secures the on/off switch and the mode
switch within the circuit housing. One end 490 of a flex cable 488
is electrically connected to the mode switch and extends from the
front 420 of the circuit housing. The opposing end 492 of the flex
cable is connected to a positive contact 468 and a negative contact
470. The positive and negative contacts are received within a
battery housing 472. The battery housing is adapted to overlay and
connect to a selected portion of the left side 210 of the grip
portion 202. An actuator switch 494 is attached to a midportion of
the flex cable to make the actuator switch operably connected to
the electronic components.
[0078] A wraparound elastomer 498 having a right 500, left 502,
front 504, and rear 506 is a flexible web element that covers the
flex cable 488. The wraparound elastomer is shaped to wraparound
the front strap 212 of the pistol frame 200 below the trigger guard
216. The right rear portion of the wraparound elastomer includes a
mode switch cover 510 that covers the mode switch 496. The mode
switch cover is formed with a visible indicium 574. The front of
the wraparound elastomer defines an actuator switch cover 508 that
covers the actuator switch 494. The right rear of the wraparound
elastomer is sized to be closely received within the notch 430 in
the circuit housing 414. The left rear of the wraparound elastomer
is sized to be closely received within a notch 478 in the front 484
of the battery housing 472. As a result, the wraparound elastomer
interconnects the circuit housing and the battery housing. The
elastomeric wraparound is overmolded onto the circuit housing and
battery housing using the same process described in conjunction
with FIG. 7 and in U.S. Pat. No. 6,301,817 (Hogue et al.). The
battery housing also has a top 480, bottom 482, and rear 486. The
top of the battery housing defines an upper battery compartment 474
that receives an upper battery 462. The bottom of the battery
housing defines a lower battery compartment 476 that receives a
lower battery 466. A contact cover 464 retains the positive and
negative contacts 468, 470 in a space between the upper and lower
battery compartments where they are in electrical contact with the
opposed end 492 of the flex cable 488.
[0079] A right grip panel 512 includes an interior 536 circuit
housing recess 564 (shown in FIG. 23) that closely receives the
circuit housing 414. The right grip panel also has a top 514,
bottom 516, front 518, rear 520, and exterior 522. The right grip
panel has a peripheral portion extending beyond the circuit housing
recess that contacts the frame 200. The front edge of the right
grip panel is flush with the front strap of the frame, and the rear
edge of the right grip panel is flush with the rear strap of the
frame. The circuit housing is spaced apart from the front strap and
the rear strap. The right grip panel is free of any electronic
components and is electrically disconnected from the circuit
housing. The right grip panel has flat inner interior surfaces
contacting the frame and contoured outer exterior surfaces. The
right grip panel defines a screw hole 524, magazine release
aperture notch 526, notch 528, mode switch hole 530, on/off switch
hole 532, screw hole 534, and notch 562. The top closely abuts the
laser housing 534. The screw hole 524 is axially registered with
the screw hole 432 in the circuit housing and the screw hole 224 in
the pistol frame 200 such that a single fastener passing through
the screw holes 524, 432 engaging screw hole 224 secures the right
grip panel and the circuit housing to the frame. The magazine
release aperture notch 526 provides clearance for the magazine
release aperture 218. Notch 528 closely receives notch 430 in the
circuit housing. Mode switch hole 530 closely receives and exposes
the mode switch cover 510. The mode switch cover is flexible and
axially registered with the mode switch hole and the mode switch
496 such that depressing the mode switch cover actuates the mode
switch. On/off switch hole 532 is axially registered with on/off
switch hole 426 in the circuit housing and exposes the switch
transfer bar 458. Screw hole 534 is axially registered with screw
hole 226 in the pistol frame and is spaced apart from the circuit
housing. Notch 562 exposes screw hole 230 in the pistol frame.
[0080] A left grip panel 538 includes an interior 550 battery
housing recess 554 that closely receives the battery housing 472.
The left grip panel also has a top 540, bottom 542, front 544, rear
546, and exterior 548. The left grip panel has a peripheral portion
extending beyond the battery housing recess that contacts the frame
200. The front edge of the left grip panel is flush with the front
strap of the frame, and the rear edge of the right grip panel is
flush with the rear strap of the frame. The battery housing is
spaced apart from the front strap and the rear strap. The left grip
panel is free of any electronic components and is electrically
disconnected from the circuit housing. The left grip panel has flat
inner interior surfaces contacting the frame and contoured outer
exterior surfaces. The left grip panel defines a screw hole 552,
screw hole 558, notch 556, and notch 560. The screw hole 552 is
axially registered with a screw hole 256 (shown in FIG. 25) in the
left side 210 of the pistol frame 200. Notch 556 closely receives
notch 478 in the battery housing. Screw hole 558 is axially
registered with screw hole 258 in the left side of the pistol
frame. Notch 560 exposes screw hole 228 in the pistol frame.
[0081] The actuator switch 494, mode switch 496, and on/off switch
456 interact with the same electronic components as those
associated with the firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight
system 10 to provide the same functionality previously described
for the activation switch 124, mode selection switch 126, and
safety switch 128.
[0082] FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate the left grip panel 538. More
particularly, the battery housing 472 is shown closely received
within the battery housing recess 554. The rear 486 of the battery
housing defines a tongue portion 564 that snaps into groove 566 in
the rear 546 of the battery housing recess to releasably retain the
battery housing within the battery housing recess.
[0083] FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate the right grip panel 512. More
particularly, the circuit housing 414 is shown closely received
within the circuit housing recess 564. The rear 422 of the circuit
housing defines a tongue portion 570 that snaps into groove 572 in
the rear 520 of the circuit housing recess to releasably retain the
circuit housing within the circuit housing recess.
[0084] FIG. 25 illustrates the alternative embodiment of the
improved firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 400.
More particularly, the axial registration of screw hole 552 with
screw hole 256, screw hole 558 with screw hole 258, screw hole 524
with screw hole 432 and screw hole 224, and screw hole 534 with
screw hole 226 can be best appreciated such that the screw holes
can receive factory-supplied screws 260, 262, 264, 266 to attach
the right grip panel 512 and left grip panel 538 to the handgrip
202.
[0085] FIG. 26 illustrates the alternative embodiment of the
improved firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 400.
More particularly, the layered arrangement of the right side 208 of
the firearm frame 200, the end 490 of the flex cable 488, the mode
switch 496, and the mode switch cover 510 and right grip panel 512
can be best appreciated.
[0086] FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate the alternative embodiment of the
improved firearm handgrip assembly with laser gunsight system 400.
More particularly, the layered arrangement of the front strap 212
of the firearm frame 200, the midportion of the flex cable 488, the
actuator switch 494, and the activator switch cover 508 can be best
appreciated.
[0087] Although the upper and lower batteries 462, 466 will provide
sufficient power for the laser diode 440 to illuminate for several
hours, the batteries eventually require replacement. Fortunately,
both batteries can be replaced without loosening or detaching the
right grip panel 512 from the handgrip 202. Instead, the user
merely detaches the left grip panel 538 from the left side 210 of
the handgrip by unscrewing the factory-supplied screws on the
outside while the right grip panel remains firmly secured to the
handgrip. The spent batteries are removed, new batteries are
inserted, and the left grip panel is reattached to the left side of
the handgrip without any disturbance to the position of the right
grip panel or the laser diode. As a result, both batteries can be
replaced without requiring the user to repeat the sighting-in
process since no point of aim error can be introduced by the
battery change process. Optionally, different screw types or screw
caps could be used for the left grip panel and right grip panel to
convey which plate is intended to be removed for routine access and
which is not intended to be removed.
[0088] In the context of the specification, the terms "rear" and
"rearward," and "front" and "forward," have the following
definitions: "rear" or "rearward" means in the direction away from
the muzzle of the firearm while "front" or "forward" means it is in
the direction towards the muzzle of the firearm.
[0089] While a current embodiment of a firearm handgrip assembly
with laser gunsight system has been described in detail, it should
be apparent that modifications and variations thereto are possible,
all of which fall within the true spirit and scope of the
invention. With respect to the above description then, it is to be
realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts
of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape,
form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are
deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and
all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings
and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed
by the present invention. For example, while M1911 pistols as
described are the most likely contemplated application for the
concepts of the present invention, it should be appreciated that
the current invention could be used with any firearm grip,
including revolvers and rifles such as AR-15s, as well as hand and
power tools and other implements with a handgrip. Furthermore, the
left and right grip panels can be made of any suitable material,
including plastic, wood, or a composite material.
[0090] Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only
of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in
the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact
construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly,
all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to,
falling within the scope of the invention.
* * * * *