U.S. patent application number 17/473068 was filed with the patent office on 2022-01-13 for firearm magazine loader having a cartridge positioner.
This patent application is currently assigned to MagPump, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is MagPump, LLC. Invention is credited to Michael W. Derus, Kenneth P. Green.
Application Number | 20220011065 17/473068 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-01-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220011065 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Derus; Michael W. ; et
al. |
January 13, 2022 |
FIREARM MAGAZINE LOADER HAVING A CARTRIDGE POSITIONER
Abstract
A firearm magazine loader is disclosed herein. The firearm
magazine loader, in an embodiment, includes a base, a body
supported by the base, an ammunition receptacle supported by the
body, and a cartridge positioner moveably coupled to the body. The
cartridge positioner includes a plurality of fingers spaced apart
by a plurality of gaps. Furthermore, the cartridge positioner
includes a ramp extending downward when the firearm magazine loader
is vertically oriented.
Inventors: |
Derus; Michael W.; (Victor,
NY) ; Green; Kenneth P.; (Lunenburg, VA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MagPump, LLC |
Henrietta |
NY |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
MagPump, LLC
Henrietta
NY
|
Appl. No.: |
17/473068 |
Filed: |
September 13, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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17005813 |
Aug 28, 2020 |
11118854 |
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17473068 |
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16254078 |
Jan 22, 2019 |
10788281 |
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17005813 |
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62620694 |
Jan 23, 2018 |
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International
Class: |
F41A 9/83 20060101
F41A009/83 |
Claims
1. A firearm magazine loader comprising: a base; a body supported
by the base; an ammunition receptacle supported by the body; and a
cartridge positioner moveably coupled to the body, wherein the
cartridge positioner comprises: a plurality of fingers spaced apart
by a plurality of gaps; and a ramp extending downward when the
firearm magazine loader is vertically oriented.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of, and claims the
benefit and priority of, U.S. patent application Ser. No.
17/005,813 filed on Aug. 28, 2020, which is a continuation of, and
claims benefit and priority of, U.S. patent application Ser. No.
16/254,078 filed on Jan. 22, 2019 (now U.S. Pat. No. 10,788,281),
which is non-provisional of, and claims the benefit and priority
of, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/620,694 filed on
Jan. 23, 2018. The entire contents of such applications are hereby
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Certain types of firearms, such as automatic and
semiautomatic guns, are operable with magazines. The user inserts
ammunition rounds into a magazine. The user then attaches the
magazine to a compatible gun. Upon triggering, the rounds move from
the magazine into the gun's chamber for rapid firing. The process
of inserting rounds into a magazine can be time consuming and
burdensome. This process can also cause fatigue, stress and injury
to the users' hands, especially for users involved in repeated
loadings over a relatively short span of time.
[0003] The foregoing background describes some, but not necessarily
all, of the problems, disadvantages and shortcomings related to the
loading of firearm magazines.
SUMMARY
[0004] In an embodiment, a firearm magazine loader includes: (a) a
receptacle configured to receive a plurality of ammunition units;
and (b) a body coupled to the receptacle. The body has a loading
structure. The loading structure is configured to be coupled to a
plurality of different types of magazine adapters. Each one of the
magazine adapters includes: (a) a body interface portion configured
to be coupled to the loading structure; and (b) a magazine
interface portion configured to be coupled to one of a plurality of
different types of firearm magazines. Each one of the firearm
magazines includes a magazine end defining a magazine opening. The
loading structure is configured to be compatible with each one of
the magazine adapters. The body defines an ammunition output. When
a first type of the firearm magazines is coupled to the magazine
interface portion of a first one of the magazine adapters, the body
is configured to direct each one of the ammunition units through
the ammunition output and into the magazine opening of the first
type of firearm magazine. When a second type of the firearm
magazines is coupled to the magazine interface portion of a second
one of the magazine adapters, the body is configured to direct each
one of the ammunition units through the ammunition output and into
the magazine opening of the second type of firearm magazine.
[0005] In another embodiment, the firearm magazine loader includes:
(a) a receptacle configured to receive a plurality of ammunition
units; and (b) a body coupled to the receptacle. The body defines a
loading structure. The loading structure is configured to be
coupled to a plurality of different types of magazine adapters.
Each one of the magazine adapters is configured to be coupled to
one of a plurality of different types of firearm magazines. With
respect to each one of the magazine adapters, the loading structure
is configured to cooperate with the magazine adapter so as to: (a)
receive a magazine end of the magazine that is coupled to the
magazine adapter; and (b) hold the magazine end in a position to
receive each one of the ammunition units.
[0006] Yet another embodiment includes a method of manufacturing a
firearm magazine loader through a plurality of steps. The method
includes accessing a receptacle configured to receive a plurality
of ammunition units and configuring a body having a loading
structure so that: (a) the loading structure is configured to be
coupled to a plurality of different types of magazine adapters,
wherein each one of the magazine adapters is configured to be
coupled to one of a plurality of different types of firearm
magazines, wherein each one of the firearm magazines includes a
magazine end; and (b) the loading structure is configured to
cooperate with each one of the magazine adapters so as to: (i)
receive the magazine end of the magazine coupled to the magazine
adapter; and (ii) hold the magazine end in a position to receive
each one of the ammunition units. The method also includes the step
of coupling the body to the receptacle.
[0007] Additional features and advantages of the present disclosure
are described in, and will be apparent from, the following Brief
Description of the Drawings and Detailed Description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1A is a front isometric view of an embodiment of a
firearm magazine loader.
[0009] FIG. 1B is another front isometric view of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0010] FIG. 2A is a rear isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A.
[0011] FIG. 2B is another rear isometric view of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a top isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating an embodiment of a magazine
installed.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a top isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating an embodiment of a magazine
uninstalled.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a top isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating an embodiment of a magazine adapter
uninstalled and a magazine uninstalled from the magazine
adapter.
[0015] FIG. 6 is an exploded, side isometric view of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0016] FIG. 7 is an exploded, side isometric view of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0017] FIG. 8A is an enlarged, exploded, fragmentary isometric view
of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating an
embodiment of the base.
[0018] FIG. 8B is an enlarged, isometric view of an embodiment of
the wedges of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0019] FIG. 8C is an enlarged, isometric view of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the base.
[0020] FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of
a firearm magazine loader that is compatible with a plurality of
different types of magazine adapters, each of which is compatible
with a different type of firearm magazine.
[0021] FIG. 9B is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of
a firearm magazine loader having an adaptive structure that is
compatible with a plurality of different types of firearm
magazines.
[0022] FIG. 10A is an isometric view of an embodiment of a magazine
adapter.
[0023] FIG. 10B is another isometric view of the magazine adapter
of FIG. 10A.
[0024] FIG. 10C is yet another isometric view of the magazine
adapter of FIG. 10A.
[0025] FIG. 11A is an isometric view of an embodiment of an
ammunition magazine or firearm magazine.
[0026] FIG. 11B is another isometric view of the firearm magazine
of FIG. 11A.
[0027] FIG. 11C is yet another isometric view of the firearm
magazine of FIG. 11A.
[0028] FIG. 12A is still another isometric view of the firearm
magazine of FIG. 11A.
[0029] FIG. 12B is another isometric view of the firearm magazine
of FIG. 11A.
[0030] FIG. 12C is yet another isometric view of the firearm
magazine of FIG. 11A.
[0031] FIG. 13A is an isometric view of an embodiment of a magazine
adapter.
[0032] FIG. 13B is another isometric view of the magazine adapter
of FIG. 13A.
[0033] FIG. 13C is yet another isometric view of the magazine
adapter of FIG. 13A.
[0034] FIG. 14A is a fragmentary, isometric view of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrated without a magazine adapter
or firearm magazine.
[0035] FIG. 14B is another fragmentary, isometric view of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrated without a magazine
adapter or firearm magazine.
[0036] FIG. 15 is an enlarged, fragmentary, isometric view of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrated without a magazine
adapter or firearm magazine.
[0037] FIG. 16 is an enlarged, fragmentary, isometric interior view
of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0038] FIG. 17 is an enlarged, isometric view of a portion of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating a magazine adapter
being inserted into the loading structure of the firearm magazine
adapter.
[0039] FIG. 18 is an enlarged, isometric view of a portion of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating a magazine adapter
being squeezed and engaged with the loading structure of the
firearm magazine adapter.
[0040] FIG. 19 is an enlarged, isometric view of a portion of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating a magazine being
inserted into a magazine adapter that has been inserted into the
loading structure of the firearm magazine adapter.
[0041] FIG. 20 is an enlarged, isometric view of a portion of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating a magazine
installed in a magazine adapter which, in turn, is installed in the
loading structure of the firearm magazine adapter, wherein the
magazine adapter is secured so that the end of the magazine remains
held within a loading space of the firearm magazine loader.
[0042] FIG. 21 is an enlarged, isometric view of a portion of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating a magazine
installed in a magazine adapter which, in turn, is installed in the
loading structure of the firearm magazine adapter and further
illustrating a grasp that is operable to decouple the magazine
adapter from the firearm magazine loader.
[0043] FIG. 22 is a top isometric view of an embodiment of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0044] FIG. 23A is an enlarged, top isometric view of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the receptacle.
[0045] FIG. 23B is another enlarged, top isometric view of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the
receptacle.
[0046] FIG. 24 is an enlarged, top isometric view of an embodiment
of the receptacle of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0047] FIG. 25 is an isometric view of the firearm magazine loader
of FIG. 1A with a panel and intermediate portion removed.
[0048] FIG. 26 is another isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A with a panel and intermediate portion
removed.
[0049] FIG. 27 is yet another isometric view of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A with a panel and intermediate portion
removed.
[0050] FIG. 28 is an isometric view of the firearm magazine loader
of FIG. 1A, illustrating the dropping of ammunition units into the
receptacle.
[0051] FIG. 29A is a top isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the first orientation of a first
ammunition unit in the receptacle.
[0052] FIG. 29B is a top isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the second orientation of the first
ammunition unit in the receptacle.
[0053] FIG. 29C is a top isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating a pile or plurality of ammunition
units randomly orientated in different directions within the
receptacle.
[0054] FIG. 30A is a top isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating a pile or plurality of ammunition
units randomly orientated in different directions within the
receptacle and further illustrating two or more of the ammunition
units simultaneously traveling down and through the receptacle
opening.
[0055] FIG. 30B is a top isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating a pile or plurality of ammunition
units randomly orientated in different directions within the
receptacle and further illustrating the agitator mixing and
agitating the ammunition units.
[0056] FIG. 31 is a top isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating a plurality of ammunition units
simultaneously sliding downward through the cavity or passage
defined by the agitator.
[0057] FIG. 32 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an
ammunition cartridge unit.
[0058] FIG. 33 is an exploded view of the firearm magazine loader
of FIG. 1A, illustrating a separation of a panel from an
intermediate portion.
[0059] FIG. 34 is an isometric view of an embodiment of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the traveling of an
ammunition cartridge unit downward through the firearm magazine
loader.
[0060] FIG. 35 is a fragmentary, isometric view of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0061] FIG. 36 is an isometric view of the firearm magazine loader
of FIG. 1A, illustrating the interior elements exposed by the
removal of a panel and intermediate portion.
[0062] FIG. 37 is an isometric view of the firearm magazine loader
of FIG. 1A, illustrating an upper panel and elements exposed by the
removal of the opposite panel and intermediate portion.
[0063] FIG. 38 is an isometric view of the firearm magazine loader
of FIG. 1A, illustrating the interior elements exposed by the
removal of a panel and intermediate portion.
[0064] FIG. 39 is a side view of the firearm magazine loader of
FIG. 1A, illustrating the traveling of an ammunition cartridge unit
downward through the body of the firearm magazine loader.
[0065] FIG. 40 is a top isometric view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating a path of an ammunition cartridge
unit toward a cartridge positioner.
[0066] FIG. 41A is a side view of an embodiment of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the cartridge positioner
holding an ammunition cartridge unit in a horizontal position.
[0067] FIG. 41B is an isometric view of an embodiment of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating an ammunition
cartridge unit moving from a non-horizontal position above the
cartridge positioner to a horizontal position on the cartridge
positioner.
[0068] FIG. 42A is an isometric view of an embodiment of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating an ammunition
cartridge unit moving from a non-horizontal position above the
cartridge positioner to a rearward-pointing, horizontal position on
the cartridge positioner.
[0069] FIG. 42B is an isometric view of an embodiment of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating an ammunition
cartridge unit moving from a non-horizontal position above the
cartridge positioner to a forward-pointing, horizontal position on
the cartridge positioner.
[0070] FIG. 43 is an enlarged, fragmentary, isometric view of the
body of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0071] FIG. 44 is an enlarged, fragmentary, isometric view of the
body of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the
secondary output.
[0072] FIG. 45 is an enlarged, fragmentary, isometric view of the
body of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0073] FIG. 46 is an enlarged, isometric view of a lower panel of
the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0074] FIG. 47 is an enlarged, fragmentary, isometric view of the
body of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the
lifter.
[0075] FIG. 48 is an enlarged, fragmentary, isometric view of the
body of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the
primary driver.
[0076] FIG. 49 is an enlarged, fragmentary, isometric view of the
body of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the
drive shaft.
[0077] FIG. 50A is an isometric view of the primary driver of the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0078] FIG. 50B is a side view of the body of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating an ammunition cartridge unit making
contact with the primary driver.
[0079] FIG. 51 is an isometric view of the firearm magazine loader
of FIG. 1A, illustrating the secondary driver.
[0080] FIG. 52 is an isometric view of the firearm magazine loader
of FIG. 1A, illustrating a plurality of horizontal guide
surfaces.
[0081] FIG. 53 is an isometric view of the firearm magazine loader
of FIG. 1A, illustrating the drive assembly.
[0082] FIG. 54 is an enlarged, isometric view of the firearm
magazine loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the drive assembly.
[0083] FIG. 55A is an enlarged, side view of the firearm magazine
loader of FIG. 1A, illustrating the primary driver applying an
upward force to the head of an ammunition cartridge unit.
[0084] FIG. 55B is a side view of the firearm magazine loader of
FIG. 1A, illustrating the primary driver applying an upward force
to the head of an ammunition cartridge unit.
[0085] FIG. 56 is a side view of the firearm magazine loader of
FIG. 1A, illustrating the primary driver applying having partially
inserted an ammunition cartridge unit into a firearm magazine.
[0086] FIG. 57A is a side view of the firearm magazine loader of
FIG. 1A, illustrating the first phase of a primary driver engaging
an ammunition cartridge unit.
[0087] FIG. 57B is a side view of the firearm magazine loader of
FIG. 1A, illustrating the second phase of a primary driver engaging
an ammunition cartridge unit.
[0088] FIG. 57C is a side view of the firearm magazine loader of
FIG. 1A, illustrating the third phase of a primary driver engaging
an ammunition cartridge unit.
[0089] FIG. 58 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a firearm
magazine, illustrating the magazine opening and follower.
[0090] FIG. 59 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a firearm
magazine, illustrating the movement of an ammunition cartridge unit
toward the magazine opening.
[0091] FIG. 60 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a firearm
magazine, illustrating the upward movement of an ammunition
cartridge unit into the magazine opening.
[0092] FIG. 61 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a firearm
magazine, illustrating the upward movement of an ammunition
cartridge unit into the magazine opening while the ammunition
cartridge unit engages the follower.
[0093] FIG. 62 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a firearm
magazine, illustrating the plurality of driving forces, acting
along intersecting planes, that urge the ammunition cartridge units
into the magazine.
[0094] FIG. 63 is a schematic diagram illustrating interaction
between the primary and secondary drivers, an ammunition cartridge
unit, and a magazine of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0095] FIG. 64A is a top isometric view of an initial set of
ammunition cartridge units loaded into a firearm magazine through
operation of the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0096] FIG. 64B is a top isometric view of additional ammunition
cartridge units loaded into a firearm magazine through operation of
the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0097] FIG. 65 is a top isometric view illustrating a user's
manipulation of a grasp to decouple a magazine adapter, carrying a
loaded firearm magazine, from the firearm magazine loader of FIG.
1A.
[0098] FIG. 66A is a top isometric view illustrating a user's
partial withdrawal a magazine adapter, carrying a loaded firearm
magazine, from the firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
[0099] FIG. 66B is a top isometric view illustrating a magazine
adapter, carrying a loaded firearm magazine, that has been
partially withdrawn from the firearm magazine loader of FIG.
1A.
[0100] FIG. 67A is a top isometric view illustrating a user's
removal of a loaded firearm magazine from a magazine adapter while
the magazine adapter is supported by the firearm magazine loader of
FIG. 1A.
[0101] FIG. 67B is an isometric view illustrating a loaded firearm
magazine that has been fully uninstalled and removed from the
firearm magazine loader of FIG. 1A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0102] In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-8C and 36, the
firearm magazine loader 10 includes: (a) a mount or base 18; (b) a
case, housing or body 22 supported by the base 18; (c) an
ammunition holder, hopper, container or receptacle 30 supported by
the body 22; (d) a mixer or agitator 32 moveably coupled to the
receptacle 30; (e) an escapement member or cartridge positioner 35
(FIG. 36) moveably coupled to, and housed within, the body 22; (f)
a primary driver 36 (FIG. 36) moveably coupled to, and housed
within, the body 22; (g) secondary driver 38 (FIG. 36) moveably
coupled to, and housed within, the body 22; (h) a drive coupler or
drive assembly 40 (FIG. 36) operatively coupled to the agitator 32,
cartridge positioner 35, primary driver 36 and secondary driver 38;
and (i) an actuator 42 (FIG. 6) operatively coupled to the drive
assembly 40.
[0103] As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8A-8C, the base 18 includes a
plurality of base couplers 44, 46. Each base coupler 44, 46 has a
neck 48 and a head 50 that is larger than the neck 48, as shown.
The base 18 also defines a plurality of mount holes or mount
openings 52. A user can insert fasteners (not shown), such as
screws or bolts, through the mount openings 52 to secure, attach or
mount the base 18 to a support surface, such as a worktable,
vehicle or other structure.
[0104] As illustrated in FIGS. 5-7 and 27, in an embodiment, the
body 22 includes lower panels 54, 56, upper panels 58, 60 and an
intermediate body portion 62. A plurality of fasteners 64 (FIG. 6),
such as threaded bolts, are used to assemble the lower panels 54,
56, upper panels 58, 60 and intermediate body portion 62 together.
Once united or assembled together, as shown in FIG. 1A, the body 22
defines an interior space, loading space or output structure 66
(FIG. 6). The output structure or interior space 66 includes one or
more recesses, slots, grooves, channels or cavities. In an
embodiment, the output structure or interior space 66 includes: (a)
a primary passage 68 having a primary input 70 and a primary output
72, as illustrated in FIG. 27; and (b) a secondary passage 74
having a secondary input 76 and a secondary output 78, as
illustrated in FIG. 27. In an embodiment, the output structure or
interior space 66 also includes ammunition output 67 (FIG. 38),
through which ammunition cartridge units may pass into a firearm
magazine. Also, the body 22 includes or defines a loading structure
80, as illustrated in FIGS. 5-6 and described below. It should be
appreciated that, depending upon the embodiment, the base 22 can be
unitary, such as a single structure having an internal cavity, or
the base 22 can include any suitable quantity of parts and
components that are connectable to each other through suitable
fasteners.
[0105] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5-7, the receptacle 30, having
a bowl shape, includes: (a) an upper receptacle portion 82; (b) a
lower receptacle portion 84; and (c) a downwardly slanted or sloped
surface 86 (FIG. 7) extending between the upper receptacle portion
82 and the lower receptacle portion 84. As described below, the
lower receptacle portion 84 defines a receptacle chute or
receptacle opening 88 (FIG. 24) that provides access to the primary
input 70.
[0106] Referring to FIGS. 7-8C, the firearm magazine loader 10
includes a plurality of coupler assemblies 90, 92 configured to
couple or secure the body 22 to the base 18. Coupler assembly 90
includes a wedge 94, a knob 96 and a fastener 98. Coupler assembly
92 includes a wedge 100, a knob 102 and a fastener 104. The wedges
94, 100 and knobs 96, 102 each define an opening configured to
receive one of the fasteners 98, 104. For example, the wedges 94,
100 define wedge openings 95, 101 (FIG. 8B). As shown, the lower
panel 54 includes a plurality of panel wedges 106, 108. To attach
or mount the body 22 to the base 18, a user can insert the panel
wedges 106, 108 into the recesses 110, 112, respectively, as
illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8C. Then, the user can slide the lower
wedge portions 114, 116 into the recesses 118, 120, respectively,
as illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B. Next, as illustrated in FIG. 7,
the user can insert the fasteners 98, 104 through the knob openings
122, 124, respectively, then through the wedge openings 95, 101
(FIG. 8B), respectively, then through the panel openings 126, 128,
respectively, and then into the threaded panel openings 130, 132.
The knobs 96, 102 are configured to receive and mate with the heads
of the fasteners 98, 104. Consequently, by rotating the knobs 96,
102, the user can tighten the fasteners 98, 104 into the threaded
panel openings 130, 132, respectively. This forces the panel wedges
106, 108 against the base couplers 44, 46, respectively, and this
also forces the lower wedge portions 114, 116 against the base
couplers 44, 46. Consequently, the body 22 is compressed onto the
base couplers 44, 46 of the base 18. This compression effectively
couples and mounts the body 22 to the base 18 in a reversible or
removeable method. The user can remove the body 22 from the base 18
by rotating and untightening the fasteners 98, 104.
[0107] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 9-13C, in an embodiment, the
firearm magazine loader 10 includes or is operable with a plurality
of different types of magazine adapters that are operable with a
plurality different types of ammunition magazines or firearm
magazines. It should be appreciated that different types of firearm
magazines are compatible with different types of firearms, guns or
other weapons. It should also be appreciated that firearm magazines
can vary by shape, size, geometry, form or style depending on the
particular type of firearm with which the firearm magazine is
compatible.
[0108] Referring to FIGS. 9A-9B, in embodiments having or involving
a firearm magazine adapter 140 or 144, each firearm magazine
adapter 140, 144 is operable with an associated firearm magazine
142, 146, respectively, that is co-operable with a particular type
of firearm. For example: (a) an X magazine adapter 140 (FIG. 9A) is
configured to partially receive and mate with an X magazine 142;
and (b) a Y magazine adapter 144 (FIG. 9A) is configured to
partially receive and mate with a Y magazine 146.
[0109] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9A, the X magazine adapter
140 includes a catch mating element 164. The X magazine 142 has a
retention structure or catch 168. When the user inserts the X
magazine 142 into the X magazine adapter 140, the catch 168
receives, mates with and interlocks with the catch mating element
164. This reversibly secures the X magazine 166 to the X magazine
adapter 142 despite the pull-away, loading forces described
below.
[0110] With continued reference to FIG. 9A, in an embodiment, the Y
magazine adapter 144 includes a plurality of catch mating elements
170, 172. The Y magazine 174 has a plurality of retention
structures or catches 176, 178. When the user inserts the Y
magazine 146 into the Y magazine adapter 144, the catch mating
elements 170, 172 receive, mate with and interlock with the catches
176, 178, respectively. In this embodiment, the catch mating
elements 170, 172 are male protrusions, and the catch mating
elements are female cavities. This reversibly secures the Y
magazine 174 to the Y magazine adapter 144 despite the pull-away,
loading forces described below.
[0111] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9B, the loading structure 80
defines, includes or incorporates an adaptive device or adaptive
structure 81 having an adaptive body 83. In this embodiment, the
adaptive structure 81 defines: (a) one or more cavities, channels,
or grooves; (b) one or more catches, retention structures, or catch
mating elements; (c) one or more adjustment elements 85, 87; or (d)
any suitable combination of the foregoing. In an embodiment, each
of the adjustment elements 85, 87 is moveably coupled to the
adaptive body 83. For example, to receive, mate with and be
compatible with the magazine 142, the user can slide, rotate or
otherwise move one or all of the adjustable elements 85, 87 to a
first position relative to the adaptive body 83. In this first
position, the adaptive structure 81 is compatible with the magazine
142. In another example, to receive, mate with and be compatible
with the magazine 146, the user can slide, rotate or otherwise move
one or all of the adjustable elements 85, 87 to a second position
relative to the adaptive body 83. In this second position, the
adaptive structure 81 is compatible with the magazine 146. This
functionality enables the loading structure 80 to be universally
adjustable to accommodate a variety of different types of
ammunition or firearm magazines 142, 146 without requiring the
involvement of separate magazine adapters. In an embodiment, the
adaptive structure 81 includes part or all of the structures,
elements and functionality of the magazine adapters 134, 138, 140,
144. In an embodiment, the adjustable elements 85, 87 include one
or more catches that are adjustable in a direction so as to achieve
computability with a particular firearm magazine, such as a Sig
Sauer.TM., Beretta.TM. or Glock.TM. magazine. For example, in this
embodiment, a catch 154 (FIG. 11B) of the Glock.TM. magazine may
mate and reversibly interlock with the adaptive structure 81. In
other embodiments, the adaptive structure 81 may not include a
catch, retention structure, or catching mating element, and the
applicable firearm magazine may instead be retained within the
adaptive structure 81 using a securement device 188 (FIG. 16).
[0112] In the example illustrated in FIGS. 10A-10C, a 9 mm
Glock.TM. magazine adapter 134 is configured to partially receive
and mate with a 9 mm Glock.TM. magazine 136. In the example
illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13C, a Sig Sauer.TM. or Beretta.TM.
magazine adapter 138 is configured to partially receive and mate
with a Sig Sauer.TM. or Beretta.TM. magazine (not shown); In the
examples described above, the magazine adapters 134, 138, 140 and
144 differ from one another in at least one physical or functional
property or characteristic, so as to be co-operable or otherwise
compatible with the different properties or characteristics of the
associated firearm magazine. The compatibility advantage provides
an important improvement, enabling users to use the firearm
magazine loader 10 to load different types of firearm
magazines.
[0113] In an embodiment, the Glock.TM. magazine adapter 134
includes: (a) a body interface portion 148 configured to engage or
otherwise interface with the body 22, as illustrated in FIGS.
10A-10C; and (b) a magazine interface portion 150 configured to
engage or otherwise interface with the Glock.TM. magazine 136, as
illustrated in FIGS. 10A-10C. The magazine interface portion 150
has a catch mating element 152, as illustrated in FIG. 10A. The
Glock.TM. magazine 136 has a retention structure or catch 154, as
illustrated in FIG. 11B. When the user inserts the Glock.TM.
magazine 136 into the Glock.TM. magazine adapter 134, as shown in
FIG. 3, the catch 154 receives, mates with and reversibly
interlocks with the catch mating element 152. This secures the
Glock.TM. magazine 136 to the Glock.TM. magazine adapter 134
despite the pull-away, loading forces described below.
[0114] In an embodiment, the Sig Sauer.TM. or Beretta.TM. magazine
adapter 138 includes: (a) a body interface portion 156 configured
to engage or otherwise interface with the body 22, as illustrated
in FIGS. 10A-10C; and (b) a magazine interface portion 158
configured to engage or otherwise interface with a 9 mm Sig
Sauer.TM. or Beretta.TM. magazine (not shown). The magazine
interface portion 156 has a plurality of catch mating elements 160,
162, as illustrated in FIG. 13B. The 9 mm Sig Sauer.TM. or
Beretta.TM. magazine (not shown) has a plurality of retention
structures or catches. When the user inserts the 9 mm Sig Sauer.TM.
or Beretta.TM. magazine into the Sig Sauer.TM. or Beretta.TM.
magazine adapter 138, the catches 160, 162 receive, mate with and
interlock with the catch mating elements of the 9 mm Sig Sauer.TM.
or Beretta.TM. magazine. This reversibly secures the 9 mm Sig
Sauer.TM. or Beretta.TM. magazine to the Sig Sauer.TM. or
Beretta.TM. magazine adapter 138 despite the pull-away, loading
forces described below.
[0115] As described above, the set or kit of magazine adapters 134,
138, 140, 144 enable the firearm magazine loader 10 to be
compatible with a plurality of different styles, types and shapes
of firearm magazines. In an embodiment, the firearm magazine loader
10 includes, or packaged with, one or more of the magazine adapters
134, 138, 140, 144. In another embodiment, the firearm magazine
loader 10 excludes, and is distributed apart from, the magazine
adapters 134, 138, 140, 144. In such embodiment, users can procure
a kit of magazine adapters 134, 138, 140, 144 for use with the
firearm magazine loader 10.
[0116] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 14A-21, in an example, the first
step to use the firearm magazine loader 10, involves coupling the
magazine adapter 134 to the loading structure 80. The loading
structure 80 defines a loading space 89 (FIGS. 14A-14B), a
plurality of coupling slots 178, 180, a magazine receiving space
182, an adapter securement slot 184 and a plurality of equally
spaced-apart friction enhancers 186.
[0117] In this embodiment, the firearm magazine loader 10 includes
a securement device 188, as illustrated in FIG. 16. The securement
device 188, which is coupled to the loading structure 80, includes:
(a) a securement member 189 configured to protrude through the
adapter securement slot 184 and interchangeably engage the adapter
retainer 192 (FIGS. 10C and 13C) of the magazine adapter 134 or
138; (b) a biasing member 193 configured bias the securement member
189 into engagement with the adapter retainer 192; (c) a grasp 194
configured to be moved between a plurality of positions; and (d) a
pivot member 195 that pivotally couples the securement member 189
to the loading structure 80. The loading structure 80 defines a
channel 197 that holds and receives the biasing member 193.
Depending upon the embodiment, the biasing member 193 can include a
compression spring, coil spring, elastic member or any other
suitable type of bias generator.
[0118] As illustrated in FIGS. 10A-10C and 13A-13C, the body
interface portions 148, 156 of the magazine adapters 134, 138,
respectively, have a plurality of notches, protrusions or retaining
members 192, 194. In addition, each of the magazine adapters 134,
138 defines a plurality of flex slots 196, 198 having a plurality
of enlarged flex spaces 200, 202, respectively. The flex slots 196,
198 define a plurality of flexible sections 204, 206, respectively.
The flex slots 196, 198 facilitate the flexing of the flexible
sessions 204, 206 along the flex axis 208.
[0119] As illustrated in FIGS. 17-19, the user can squeeze the
flexible sections 204, 206 together until the retaining members 192
fit within the magazine receiving space 182. Then, the user can
align the retaining members 192, 194 with the coupling slots 178,
180, respectively. Next, the user can release the flexible sections
204, 206, at which point the flexible sections 204, 206 will
elastically move away from each other until the retaining members
192, 194 move into the coupling slots 178, 180, respectively. In an
embodiment, the flexible sections 204, 206 include a biasing
characteristic, including, but not limited to, an elastic
characteristic of the material used to construct the magazine
adapter 134, such as a flexible or semi-rigid polymer.
[0120] Next, as illustrated in FIGS. 19-20, the user can insert an
empty magazine 136 into the magazine adapter 134. In doing so, the
catch 154 (FIG. 11B) interlocks with the catch mating element 152
(FIG. 10A). As the user pushes in the forward direction 210, the
magazine 136 drives the magazine adapter 134 forward until the
adapter retainer 192 (FIG. 10C) reaches the securement member 189
(FIG. 16). At that point, the securement member 189, biased in a
vertical or upward direction 212 due to the biasing member 193,
moves into the adapter retainer 192, establishing a reversible
interlock, as shown in FIG. 20.
[0121] As illustrated in FIG. 21, to remove a magazine adapter 134
(carrying a loaded magazine 136) the user can pull upward on the
grasp 194. This upward force causes the securement member 189 (FIG.
16) to move downward and out of the adapter retainer 192 (FIG.
10C). This frees the magazine adapter 134 for removal from the
firearm magazine loader 10.
[0122] For loading purposes, however, the user will keep the
magazine adapter 134 (carrying an empty Magazine 136) installed in
the firearm magazine loader 10. Next, referring to FIGS. 22-32, the
user can dump or pour a box or handful of ammunition cartridge
units 214 into the receptacle 30. In an embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 32, each ammunition cartridge unit 214 includes a rim end 216
defining an annular recess, a bullet end 218 and a tubular case 221
extending between the rim end 216 and the bullet end 218. The
ammunition cartridge unit 214 has a length dimension 220. In an
embodiment, the case 221 has a diameter 223, and the bullet end 218
is heavier than the rim end 216. For example, the bullet end 218
can have a higher density that the rim end 216. The bullet end 218
can be constructed of a solid lead core or a hollowed tip
constructed of lead. As shown in FIG. 31, the ammunition cartridge
units 214 can be oriented so that: (a) multiple ammunition
cartridge units 214 simultaneously pass through the receptacle
opening 88, which is partially defined by the agitator concave
surface 222, as shown in FIG. 24; (b) the rim end 216 of any of the
ammunition cartridge units 214 is oriented below or downward from
the bullet end 218, wherein the ammunition cartridge unit 214
travels downward with the rim end 216 first; or (c) the bullet end
218 of any of the ammunition cartridge units 214 is oriented below
or downward from the rim end 216, wherein the ammunition cartridge
unit 214 travels downward with the bullet end 218 first.
[0123] Referring to FIGS. 33-34, due to gravity, the ammunition
cartridge units 214 travel or move downward through the receptacle
opening 88, into the primary input 70 and through the primary
passage 68. As shown, the primary passage 68 is defined by the
union or assembly of the intermediate body portion 62 with the
upper panel 60.
[0124] Referring to FIGS. 35-43, the ammunition cartridge units 214
exit the primary passage 68 at the primary output 72. The cartridge
positioner 35 is located at or below the primary output 72. As
illustrated in FIGS. 41B-42B, in an embodiment, the cartridge
positioner 35 includes: (a) a plurality of fingers 224, 226, 228
spaced apart by a plurality of gaps 230, 232; and (b) a ramp or
downwardly sloped surface 234. When assembled, the intermediate
guide surface 236 (FIGS. 33 and 40) of the intermediate body
portion 62 and the positioner edge 238 of the sloped surface 234
define the secondary input 76, as illustrated in FIGS. 35 and
40.
[0125] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 36, the drive assembly 40 of
the firearm magazine loader 10 includes an agitation driver 240
engaged with the agitator 34, the cartridge positioner 35, a
lifting rod or lifter 242 coupled to the cartridge positioner 35, a
primary arm or primary link 244, a secondary arm or secondary link
246, and a drive shaft 344, each of which is described below.
[0126] Referring back to FIG. 33, the agitator 34 is pivotally
coupled to the receptacle 30 through a pivot member 248. The
agitator 34 has a C-shape that partially defines the receptacle
opening 88. Also, the agitator 34 has a V-shaped portion 250
defining a recess configured to receive an upper end 254 of the
agitation driver 240. The upper end 254 engages the V-shaped
portion 250 at a point that is offset from the pivot member 248.
The lower end 256 of the agitation driver 240 has an L-shape
defining a branch 258. A biasing member 260 (e.g., compression
spring), when positioned within a cavity 262 (FIG. 47), applies a
downward biasing force to the branch 258. As a result of such
biasing force, the agitation driver 240 is predisposed to be
positioned in a downward position, enabling the agitator 34 to
pivot clockwise 262 (FIG. 33) under gravity or the weight of the
pile of ammunition cartridge units 214. When the branch 256 is
moved upward, as described below, the agitator 34 pivots
counterclockwise 264, as illustrated in FIG. 33. During the
agitation action, the agitator 34 frequently pivots in alternating
clockwise and counterclockwise directions 262 and 264,
respectively. If the receptacle 30 is filled enough with ammunition
cartridge units 214, such as filled to the maximum fill line 270,
the agitator head 266 and the agitator foot 268 will disturb, mix
and apply forces to the ammunition cartridge units 214. In an
embodiment, the agitator 34 includes an agitator grasp 271. The
agitator grasp 271 extends from the agitator head 266. If the
ammunition cartridge units 214 become jammed or obstructed within
the receptacle 30, the user can grasp and move the agitator grasp
271 upward and downward to clear the obstruction.
[0127] As a result of the agitation action, one or more of the
ammunition cartridge units 214 falls through the receptacle opening
88, as described above. Eventually, the one or more ammunition
cartridge units 214 reach a screening or staging gap 272, as
illustrated in FIG. 40. In an embodiment, the staging gap 272 has a
staging dimension 274 that is: (a) greater than the diameter 223 of
any single one of the ammunition cartridge units 214; and (b) less
than double the diameter 223. Consequently, the staging dimension
274 only enables the ammunition cartridge units 214 to sequentially
travel to the sloped surface 234. In other words, the staging
dimension 274 ensures that the ammunition cartridge units 214
travel, one by one, to the sloped surface 234.
[0128] As illustrated in FIGS. 41A and 41B, when one of the
ammunition cartridge units 214 reaches the sloped surface 234, the
ammunition cartridge unit 234 is positioned, momentarily, in a
horizontal position on the sloped surface 234. As illustrated in
FIGS. 42A and 42B, the sloped surface 234 has a surface length 276
that is: (a) greater than the length dimension 220 (FIG. 32) of the
ammunition cartridge unit 234; and (b) less than double the length
dimension 220. The ammunition cartridge unit 234 can reach the
cartridge positioner 35 with the bullet end 218 above the rim end
216 (FIG. 42A) or with the rim end 216 above the bullet end 218
(FIG. 42B). Depending upon the angle of entry, the ammunition
cartridge unit 234 will land, momentarily, with the bullet end 218
facing in the rearward direction 278 (FIG. 42A) or with the bullet
end 218 facing in the forward direction 210 (FIG. 42B). From there,
the ammunition cartridge unit 234 will roll and pivot, under its
own weight, so that the ammunition cartridge unit 234 slides off of
the sloped surface 234 with the bullet end 218 positioned below the
rim end 216, as shown in FIGS. 42A and 42B. This is because the
bullet end 218 weighs more than the rim end 216. This ensures that
all of the ammunition cartridge units 234 sequentially slide
downward, leaving the cartridge positioner 35 with their bullet
ends 218 oriented downward.
[0129] In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 33, 35 and 43, the
firearm magazine loader 10 includes a unjamming device 280. The
unjamming device 280 includes: (a) an L-shaped disturber 282
slideably coupled to the lower panel 54; and (b) a biasing member
286 (e.g., compression spring) coupled to the lower panel 54 that
applies a downward biasing force to the disturber 282. The coupler
284 has a head or grasp 288. If the ammunition cartridge units 234
become jammed or obstructed within the primary passage 68, the user
can move the grasp 288 upward and downward to disturb and
reposition the ammunition cartridge units 234 to clear the jam.
[0130] As illustrated in FIGS. 44-49, when one of the ammunition
cartridge units 234 leaves the cartridge positioner 35, the
ammunition cartridge unit 234 enters the secondary input 76, which
provides access to the secondary passage 74 which, in turn, leads
to the secondary output 78. The secondary input 76, secondary
passage 74 and secondary output 78 are defined by the union or
assembly of the lower panels 54, 56. As shown in FIG. 46, the
secondary input 76 has a funnel shape with a decreasing width. The
tapered side surfaces 290 (FIG. 44) and 292 (FIG. 46) collectively
direct the ammunition cartridge unit 234 to achieve a substantially
vertical position while dropping downward until entering the
secondary passage 74. Due to gravity, the ammunition cartridge unit
234 then falls downward through the secondary passage 74.
[0131] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 44-45, the firearm magazine
loader 10 has a director 293. The end or finger 295 of the director
293 is inserted through a slot 297 within the lower panel 56. If
the ammunition cartridge unit 234 is not positioned vertically
while dropping, the finger 295 of the director 293 engages the
ammunition cartridge unit 234 to orient the ammunition cartridge
unit 234 to have a vertical or substantially vertical position.
Eventually, the ammunition cartridge unit 234 reaches the secondary
output 78 (FIG. 46) and contacts the primary driver 36.
[0132] As illustrated in FIGS. 50A-53, the primary driver 36
includes: (a) a plurality of vertical guides 294, 296; and (b) a
cartridge engagement surface 298 configured to abut and make
physical contact with the bullet end 218 of the ammunition
cartridge unit 234. The cartridge engagement surface 298 has a
landing portion 300 and a ramp portion 302. As described below, the
ramp portion 302 is configured to gradually increase the upward
travel of the ammunition cartridge unit 234 as the bullet end 218
is laterally slid from the landing portion 300 to the ramp portion
302. The vertical guides 294, 296 are configured to fit into, and
mate with, a plurality of vertical slots (e.g., vertical slot 304
shown in FIG. 48) defined by the lower panels 54, 56. Accordingly,
the primary driver 36 is configured to slide upward and downward
within the body 22 between a ready position 299 (FIG. 47) and a
loading position 311 (FIG. 56).
[0133] With continued reference to FIGS. 50A-53, the secondary
driver 38 has an elongated box shape including a cartridge
engagement surface 306, a holder 310, and a biasing member 308
(e.g., compression spring) supported by the holder 310. A first end
312 of the biasing member 308 is coupled to the holder 310, and a
second end 314 of the biasing member 308 is coupled to the lower
panel 56 (FIG. 51). In operation, the biasing member 308 applies a
biasing or spring force to the secondary driver 38. This spring
force urges the secondary driver 38 toward a ready position 309
wherein the secondary driver 38 is cleared outside of the secondary
passage 74, enabling an ammunition cartridge unit 234 to fall
through the secondary passage 74. The cartridge engagement surface
306 has a concave shape to correspond to the tubular shape of the
ammunition cartridge unit 234.
[0134] As shown in FIG. 52, the lower panel 56 defines a horizontal
cavity or horizontal slot 316 configured to receive the secondary
driver 38. The slot has a plurality of horizontal guide surfaces
318, 320 configured to slideably engage the secondary driver 38.
Accordingly, the secondary driver 36 is configured to slide
laterally within the body 22 between the ready position 309 (FIG.
52) and a loading position 311 (FIG. 56).
[0135] Referring to FIGS. 53-54, the primary link 244 includes: (a)
a wheel or primary gear 322 having a primary pivot member 324
pivotally coupled to the lower panel 54 (FIG. 44) for support
purposes; and (b) a primary extension 326 extending from the
primary gear 322. The primary extension 326 is configured to fit
into the primary driver recess 328 defined by the primary driver
36. Depending upon the embodiment, the primary extension 326 can be
pivotally coupled to the primary driver 36. The primary gear 322
has: (a) a primary driver peak 330 and a primary driver tooth 332
separated by a primary valley 334; and (b) a primary stoppage peak
336 separated from the primary driver tooth 332 by a primary valley
338.
[0136] With continued reference to FIGS. 53-54, the secondary link
246 includes: (a) a wheel or secondary gear 340 defining an opening
342 configured to be receive and be fixedly coupled to the drive
shaft 344; and (b) a secondary extension 346 extending from the
secondary gear 340 and configured to engage a secondary driver
member 348 (FIG. 53) of the secondary driver 38. The secondary gear
340 has a secondary driver peak 400 and a secondary driver tooth
402 separate by a delay valley 404.
[0137] Referring to FIGS. 53-57C, in an embodiment, the actuator 42
includes a handle 406 fixedly connected to the drive shaft 344.
Initially, the handle 406 is in the up or first handle position 408
as shown in FIG. 1B. The user can push the handle 406 downward in
the counterclockwise direction 264 to achieve the second handle
position 410 as shown in FIG. 55B. In the process of transitioning
from the first handle position 408 to the second handle position
410, the secondary gear 340 is initially activated and rotated to
in the counterclockwise direction 264. Referring to FIGS. 54 and
57A, in the first phase of the rotation, the secondary driver peak
400 engages the primary driver peak 330. As the rotation occurs,
the secondary driver peak 400 applies a force to the primary driver
peak 330 which causes the primary link 244 to rotate in the
clockwise direction 262 which, in turn, causes the primary driver
36 to move upward, as shown in FIG. 57A. During this first phase,
as illustrated in FIG. 57A, the secondary driver 38 remains in its
original or substantially original position during the upward
movement of the primary driver 36. This is due to the delay valley
404. The delay valley 404 has an arc length that stalls the
engagement of the secondary driver tooth 402 with the primary
driver tooth 332.
[0138] In transitioning from the first phase (FIG. 57A) to the
second phase (FIG. 57B), the secondary driver tooth 402 slides
along the delay valley 404 encountering no interference, which
avoids generating a lateral force on the secondary driver 38. This
results in an important time delay between the driving action of
the primary driver 36 and the driving action of the secondary
driver 38. Because of this time delay, a single actuation of the
actuator 42 can result in the following: (a) an upward force
(operable to move the ammunition cartridge unit 234 upward next to
the magazine mouth or magazine opening 412); and (b) a horizontal
or lateral force (operable to move the ammunition cartridge unit
234 laterally through the magazine opening 412) that occurs a
period of time after the upward force.
[0139] During the second phase, as shown in FIGS. 54 and 57B, the
secondary driver tooth 402 applies a force to the primary driver
tooth 332. The counteractive force of the primary driver tooth 332
causes the secondary link 246 to rotate in the clockwise direction
262, which, in turn, causes the secondary driver 38 to move
laterally toward the magazine opening 412. In this position, both
the primary driver 36 and the secondary driver 38 are engaged with,
and applying forces, to the ammunition cartridge unit 234.
[0140] During the third phase, as shown in FIGS. 54 and 57C, the
secondary driver tooth 402 continues to rotate and apply a force to
the primary driver tooth 332. The continued counteractive force of
the primary driver tooth 332 causes the secondary link 246 to
further rotate in the clockwise direction 262, which, in turn,
causes the secondary driver 38 to further move laterally toward the
magazine opening 412. In this position, both the primary driver 36
and the secondary driver 38 are engaged with, and simultaneously
apply forces, to the ammunition cartridge unit 234. As shown, the
primary stoppage peak 336 applies a stopping force to the secondary
link 246 while the secondary driver tooth 402 continues to rotate
and apply a final force to the primary driver tooth 332. This final
force causes the ammunition cartridge unit 234 to move entirely
within the magazine 136. In an embodiment, during the conveyance of
this final force, the primary driver 36 is in upward motion while
the secondary driver 38 is stationary.
[0141] The dimensions and geometry of the delay valley 404 are set
and configured to synchronize the movements of the primary driver
36 and the secondary driver 38. Based on such synchronization, when
the ammunition cartridge unit 234 reaches the position near the
magazine opening 412, the primary driver 36 and the secondary
driver 38 are configured to simultaneously apply upward and
horizontal forces to the ammunition cartridge unit 234 to
effectively load the ammunition cartridge unit 214 into the
magazine 136.
[0142] In an example shown in FIGS. 12A-12C and 58-62, the magazine
136 houses a compression spring 414. The magazine 136 includes a
follower 416 coupled to the spring 414. The magazine 136 also
includes an ammunition retainer or cartridge retainer 418 which, in
this example, includes a plurality of retaining lips 420, 422. As
illustrated in FIG. 59, in the first step of loading, the primary
driver 36 applies an initial upward force 424 to the ammunition
cartridge unit 234. As illustrated in FIG. 60, in the second step
of loading, delayed from the first step, the secondary driver 38
applies an initial horizontal or lateral force 426 to the
ammunition cartridge unit 214 while the primary driver 36 continues
to apply the initial upward force 424, as shown in FIG. 60. The
lateral force 426 presses the ammunition cartridge unit 214 against
the follower 416 causing the spring 414 to compress, which, in
turn, causes the ammunition cartridge unit 234 to become entrapped
by the retaining lips 420, 422. As illustrated in FIG. 61, in the
third step of loading, the primary driver 36 applies a final upward
force 428 which causes the ammunition cartridge unit 234 to
entirely pass through the magazine opening 412 and become fully
positioned within the magazine 136.
[0143] As illustrated in FIG. 62, the forces generated by the
primary driver 36 act along a primary axis 432, which extends in a
primary plane 434. It should be appreciated that, depending upon
the embodiment, the primary axis 432 can be vertical, substantially
vertical or upwardly angled. The forces generated by the secondary
driver 38 act along a secondary axis 436, which extends in a
secondary plane 438. It should be appreciated that, depending upon
the embodiment, the secondary axis 436 can be horizontal,
substantially horizontal or laterally angled.
[0144] Referring back to FIGS. 36-38, 47, 56 and 57A-57C, the drive
assembly 40 includes the lifting rod or lifter 242, among other
components. As shown, the lifting rod or lifter 242 is connected to
the cartridge positioner 35. The lifter end 430 is located within
the primary passage 68 above the primary driver 36. When the handle
406 is in the up or first handle position 408 (FIG. 1B), the
primary driver 36 has the ready position 299 (FIG. 57A). As shown
in FIG. 57A, the lifter end 430 is spaced apart from, and located
above, the primary driver 36 in the ready position 299. When the
user moves the handle 406 to the second handle position 410 (Fig.
FIG. 55B), the primary driver 36 moves upward to the loading
position 301 (FIG. 57C). In the loading position 301, the landing
portion 300 of the primary driver 36 makes contact with, and pushes
upward on, the lifter end 430. This causes the lifter 242 to move
upward, which causes the cartridge positioner 35 to move upward,
which causes the agitation driver 240 to move upward, which causes
the agitator 34 to pivot, which causes the agitation or mixing of
the pile of ammunition cartridge units 214 within the receptacle
30, as illustrated in FIG. 38. When the user releases the handle
406, the biasing member 308 (FIG. 51) urges the secondary driver 38
to the ready position 309, which urges the handle 406 to the first
handle position 408 (FIG. 1B). As described above, in this
embodiment, the drive assembly 40 operatively couples the actuator
42 to the agitator 34, primary driver 38 and secondary driver
38.
[0145] Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 63, the actuator 42 is
operable to generate a single input. Depending upon the embodiment,
the single input can be a rotational movement, a translational
movement or a combination thereof. Though the actuator 42 is
illustrated in FIG. 1A as having a manually-operable handle 406, it
should be appreciated that the actuator 42 can electrically
generate the movement without the inclusion of a handle. For
example, the actuator 42 can include a motor, solenoid or pneumatic
device powered by a rechargeable battery or electricity supplied
through an electrical cord. In such embodiment, the actuator 42
includes a switch, button or activation device operable to activate
the electrical actuator 42. In any case, whether the actuator 42 is
manually or electrically-configured, the actuator 42 generates the
single input. Because the drive assembly 40 operatively couples the
actuator 42 to the agitator 34, the primary driver 36 and the
secondary driver 38, the single input has multiple outputs. The
outputs are synchronized to apply differently-angled forces to the
each ammunition cartridge unit 214 at designated times, all while
agitating the ammunition cartridge units 214 within the receptacle
30.
[0146] Referring to FIGS. 64A-64B, each incremental movement of the
actuator 42 (e.g., each downward travel of the handle 406) causes a
single ammunition cartridge unit 214 to move into and be loaded
within the magazine 136. As the ammunition cartridge units 214 are
driven into the magazine 136, the magazine spring 414 is further
compressed. When the magazine 136 is fully loaded or loaded to the
user's satisfaction, the user can pull upward on the grasp 194, as
illustrated in FIG. 65. Next, as illustrated in FIG. 66A, the user
can pull the magazine 136 rearward. Since the magazine 136, at this
point, remains interlocked with the magazine adapter 134, the
retraction of the magazine 136 causes the magazine adapter 134 to
pull outward, as illustrated in FIG. 66B. Finally, the user can
detach the magazine 136 from the magazine adapter 134 because the
interlocking is reversible, as illustrated in FIG. 67A. As
illustrated in FIG. 67B, the loaded magazine 136 is then ready for
installation into a firearm for shooting. By squeezing the magazine
adapter 134, as described above, the user can detach the magazine
adapter 134 from the loading structure 80, as illustrated in FIG.
67B.
[0147] In the foregoing description, certain components or elements
may have been described as being configured to mate with each
other. For example, an embodiment may be described as a first
element (functioning as a male) configured to be inserted into a
second element (functioning as a female). It should be appreciated
that an alternate embodiment includes the first element
(functioning as a female) configured to receive the second element
(functioning as a male). In either such embodiment, the first and
second elements are configured to mate with or otherwise interlock
with each other.
[0148] Additional embodiments include any one of the embodiments
described above and described in any and all exhibits and other
materials submitted herewith, where one or more of its components,
functionalities or structures is interchanged with, replaced by or
augmented by one or more of the components, functionalities or
structures of a different embodiment described above.
[0149] It should be understood that various changes and
modifications to the embodiments described herein will be apparent
to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be
made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure and without diminishing its intended advantages. It is
therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered
by the appended claims.
[0150] Although several embodiments of the disclosure have been
disclosed in the foregoing specification, it is understood by those
skilled in the art that many modifications and other embodiments of
the disclosure will come to mind to which the disclosure pertains,
having the benefit of the teaching presented in the foregoing
description and associated drawings. It is thus understood that the
disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed
herein above, and that many modifications and other embodiments are
intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.
Moreover, although specific terms are employed herein, as well as
in the claims which follow, they are used only in a generic and
descriptive sense, and not for the purposes of limiting the present
disclosure, nor the claims which follow.
* * * * *