U.S. patent application number 17/196490 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-15 for firearm support base and related method of use.
The applicant listed for this patent is Leapers, Inc.. Invention is credited to Tai-lai Ding, Shih Hao Ku, Tat Shing Yu.
Application Number | 20220290941 17/196490 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006560446 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220290941 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ding; Tai-lai ; et
al. |
September 15, 2022 |
FIREARM SUPPORT BASE AND RELATED METHOD OF USE
Abstract
A base detachably joined with a support pod, which supports a
weapon in a firing position, is provided with finely tuned length
adjustability. The base can include a quick detach first connector
joined with a lower end of a leg of a support pod, a threaded core
post having a shaft, and an actuator sleeve threadably and
rotatably engaged with the core post to extend and/or retract the
core post, and thereby adjust a length of the base. The base can
include a locking ring rotatable to move along the threaded
portion, the locking ring configured to selectively engage the
actuator sleeve and prevent the actuator sleeve from rotating, to
thereby set the length of the base at a fixed length. A related
method of use is provided.
Inventors: |
Ding; Tai-lai; (Northville,
MI) ; Yu; Tat Shing; (Plymouth, MI) ; Ku; Shih
Hao; (Westland, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Leapers, Inc. |
Livonia |
MI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006560446 |
Appl. No.: |
17/196490 |
Filed: |
March 9, 2021 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41A 23/10 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41A 23/10 20060101
F41A023/10 |
Claims
1. A base for a support pod configured to support a weapon in a
firing position, the support pod extending from a connector that
engages the weapon, the base comprising: a first end including a
first connector that is configured to releasably engage a support
pod lower end distal from a pod connector of the support pod that
engages a weapon, the first connector being actuatable to release
the first connector from the support pod lower end upon actuation
by a user; a second end distal from the first end; a longitudinal
axis extending between the first end and the second end; a core
post disposed between the first end and the second end, the core
post having a threaded portion and a shaft extending from the
threaded portion; an actuator sleeve rotatably mounted around the
core post on the threaded portion, the actuator sleeve rotatable to
at least one of extend and retract the core post relative to at
least one of the first end and the second end, and thereby adjust a
length of the base; and a locking ring threaded on the threaded
portion, the locking ring rotatable to move along the threaded
portion, the locking ring configured to selectively engage the
actuator sleeve and prevent the actuator sleeve from rotating such
that the core post can no longer at least one of extend and
retract, to thereby set the length of the base at a fixed
length.
2. The base of claim 1 comprising: a second connector joined with
the second end, the second connector configured to releasably
engage a footpad, the second connector being actuatable to release
the footpad from the second end upon actuation by a user.
3. The base of claim 2, wherein the first connector includes a ball
detent, wherein the second connector includes another ball
detent.
4. The base of claim 1, wherein the a shaft defines a slot, wherein
a pin projects through the shaft to prevent relative rotational
movement of the core post relative to the first end, wherein the
core post remains linearly moveable toward and away from the first
end.
5. The base of claim 4, wherein the first end includes a bore,
wherein the shaft is moveable into and out from the bore when the
core post at least one of extends and retracts.
6. The base of claim 1, comprising: a bushing that is fixedly
joined with the first end, wherein the bushing includes a first
flange, wherein the actuator sleeve includes a second flange that
is rotatable relative to the first flange, wherein the first flange
prevents the actuator sleeve from linearly moving relative to the
first end.
7. The base of claim 1, wherein the first end includes a collar,
wherein the collar includes the first connector, wherein the collar
includes a limiter ring adjacent the actuator sleeve so that the
actuator sleeve cannot ride up the collar.
8. The base of claim 7, wherein the collar includes a shoulder,
wherein the actuator sleeve includes a rim, wherein the rim is
configured to abut and rotate relative to the shoulder.
9. The base of claim 8 comprising: a pin extending through a hole
defined by the collar and a slot defined by the shaft.
10. The base of claim 1, comprising: a pin registered in and
slidable relative to a slot defined by the shaft, the pin being
fixedly joined with the first end so that the core post can be
extended and retracted relative to but cannot be disassociated from
the first end.
11. The base of claim 1, comprising: a footpad removably secured to
the second end of the base, the footpad configured to engage a
ground surface.
12. A base for a support pod configured to support a weapon in a
firing position, the support pod extending from a connector that
engages the weapon, the base comprising: a first connector that is
configured to releasably engage a support pod lower end distal from
a pod connector of the support pod that engages a weapon, the first
connector being actuatable to release the first connector from the
support pod lower end upon actuation by a user; a core post joined
with the first connector, the core post having a threaded portion
and a shaft extending from the threaded portion; an actuator sleeve
threadably and rotatably engaged with the core post to at least one
of extend and retract the core post along a longitudinal axis, and
thereby adjust a length of the base, wherein the actuator sleeve
remains linearly stationary along the longitudinal axis when
rotated to at least one of extend and retract the core post.
13. The base of claim 12 comprising: a locking ring rotatable to
move along the threaded portion, the locking ring configured to
selectively engage the actuator sleeve and prevent the actuator
sleeve from rotating, to thereby set the length of the base at a
fixed length.
14. The base of claim 13 comprising: a second connector joined with
the core post, the second connector configured to releasably engage
a footpad, the second connector being actuatable to release the
footpad from the second end upon actuation by a user, wherein the
actuator sleeve is rotatable to adjust the length of the base
without the footpad rotating relative to a ground surface while the
footpad engages the ground surface.
15. The base of claim 12 comprising: a collar including the first
connector and a shoulder, a limiter ring adjacent the actuator
sleeve so that the actuator sleeve cannot ride up the collar
wherein the actuator sleeve includes a rim, wherein the rim is
configured to abut and rotate relative to the shoulder.
16. The base of claim 12 comprising: a collar including the first
connector; and a pin extending through a hole defined by the collar
and a slot defined by the shaft.
17. The base of claim 16, wherein the pin is slidably disposed in
the slot so that the shaft can move linearly along the longitudinal
axis so the length can be adjusted, wherein the pin rotationally
fixes the core post relative to the collar, wherein as the actuator
sleeve rotates relative to the collar and the core post, the pin
slides in the slot.
18. A method of adjusting a length of a base for a support pod
configured to support a weapon in a firing position, the support
pod extending from a connector that engages the weapon, the method
comprising: releasably engaging, with a first connector, a support
pod lower end distal from a pod connector of the support pod that
engages a weapon, the first connector being actuatable to release
the first connector from the support pod lower end upon actuation
by a user, the first connector being joined with a core post having
a threaded portion and a shaft extending from the threaded portion;
rotating an actuator sleeve relative to the core post to at least
one of extend and retract the core post along a longitudinal axis,
and thereby adjust a length of the base; and moving a locking ring
along the core post to selectively engage the actuator sleeve and
prevent the actuator sleeve from rotating, to thereby set the
length of the base at a fixed length.
19. The method of claim 18 comprising: providing a second connector
joined with the core post; releasably engaging a footpad with the
second connector; engaging the footpad with a ground surface to
support the weapon, wherein the base is disposed between the end of
the support pod and the footpad, wherein the second connector is
actuatable to release the footpad from the second end, wherein the
actuator sleeve is rotatable to adjust the length of the base
without the footpad rotating relative to the ground surface.
20. The method of claim 18 comprising: translating rotational
movement of the actuator sleeve to linear movement of the core post
to adjust the length of the base.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to weapons, and more
particularly to a weapon accessory that can support a weapon in a
firing or other position.
[0002] When firing a weapon at a target, it is usually helpful to
have the weapon stabilized and unmoving to ensure proper target
acquisition, aiming and shot placement. There is a variety of
supports available to fulfill this function. A popular support for
small arms is the bipod. A bipod typically attaches to the front
handguard or stock of a firearm or other small arm, and projects
downwardly therefrom. A bipod usually includes two spring-loaded
legs that deploy from a transport position to a deployed position,
in which they are ready to support the firearm during fire.
[0003] Many bipods are adjustable in height to enable a user to
raise or lower the barrel of the rifle and precisely aim or fire it
at a target, particularly one at a long distance. Most conventional
bipods also include feet or bases that engage the ground. The bipod
feet are mounted to the bottoms of the respective legs of the
bipod, and can be contoured or textured to engage different ground
surfaces. For example, some bipod feet include a soft rubber bottom
so that the feet can be placed on surfaces without marring or
scratching the same. Other bipod feet include spikes to dig into
and provide firm contact with the ground.
[0004] While most bipod feet provide enhanced engagement of the
bipod legs with a support surface, they have several shortcomings.
For example, conventional bipod feet typically have a fixed
profile. Accordingly, where a bipod leg, to which the foot is
attached, only has fixed length adjustments, the user is left
without many options to fine-tune the level and alignment of the
weapon to which the bipod is attached. Further, where the bipod
feet are removable from the bipod legs, a user may resort to
switching out various sized and shaped bipod feet to accommodate
different shooting positions and terrain on which the bipod is
rested.
[0005] Accordingly, there remains room for improvement in the field
of support pods to support weapons in a firing position.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] A base detachably joined with a support pod, which supports
a weapon in a firing position, is provided with finely tuned length
adjustability. The base can include a quick detach first connector
joined with a lower end of a leg of a support pod, a threaded core
post having a shaft, and an actuator sleeve rotatably engaged with
the core post to extend and/or retract the core post, and thereby
adjust a length of the base.
[0007] In one embodiment, the base can include an integral footpad
that is permanently secured to the base, or a detachable,
replaceable footpad that can be replaced, optionally manually,
without the use of tools, relative to the base, so a user can
customize the engagement of the base with a support surface, such
as the ground or some other surface over which the weapon is
placed.
[0008] In another embodiment, the base can include a locking ring
rotatable to move along the threaded portion. The locking ring can
selectively engage the actuator sleeve and prevent the actuator
sleeve from rotating, to thereby set the length of the base at a
fixed length.
[0009] In still another embodiment, rotational movement of the
actuator sleeve translates to linear movement of the core post to
adjust the length of the base. After the length is adequately
adjusted, the locking ring can be threaded to abut the actuator
sleeve so that the adjustment sleeve is held in a fixed positon
relative to the core post.
[0010] In yet another embodiment, the shaft of the core post
defines a slot and a pin projects through the shaft to prevent
relative rotational movement of the core post relative to the first
connector. Even with this arresting of rotational movement of the
core post relative to the first connector, however, the core post
can remain linearly moveable toward and away from the first
end.
[0011] In even another embodiment, the pin can be secured to the
first connector or a collar to fix the pin relative to the same.
The pin thus also connects the shaft movably to the first connector
or collar. The actuator, however, remains rotatable relative to the
first connector, but does not move linearly away from or toward the
collar.
[0012] In another, further embodiment, the core post can include a
limiting flange and the locking ring can be threaded. The locking
ring can be moveable along the threaded portion of the core post
between the actuator sleeve and the limiting flange. When the
locking ring engages the limiting flange, it stops, so the limiting
ring does not thread off the base.
[0013] In a further embodiment, the locking ring is moveably
disposed between the actuator sleeve and the footpad. The actuator
sleeve and the locking sleeve can be rotatable, however, the
footpad is not rotatable relative to the remainder of the base.
[0014] In yet a further embodiment, the support pod can be a leg of
a monopod, bipod, tripod or other legged weapon support. The base
can be detachably mounted to a lowermost extremity of the leg. The
leg itself can be adjustable in length, with its own mechanisms
located above the lowermost extremity. The base, however, also can
be length adjustable, in which case the leg is independently length
adjustable, and the base also is independently length adjustable.
Optionally, the base can provide finer length adjustment than the
leg length adjustment.
[0015] In even a further embodiment, a method of using a base to
orient a weapon in a firing configuration is provided. The method
can include releasably engaging, with the first connector, a
support pod lower end distal from a pod connector of the support
pod that engages a weapon, the first connector being actuatable to
release the first connector from the support pod lower end upon
actuation by a user, the first connector being joined with a core
post having a threaded portion and a shaft extending from the
threaded portion; rotating the actuator sleeve relative to the core
post to at least one of extend and retract the core post along a
longitudinal axis, and thereby adjust a length of the base; and
moving a locking ring along the core post to selectively engage the
actuator sleeve and prevent the actuator sleeve from rotating, to
thereby set the length of the base at a fixed length.
[0016] In still another embodiment, the method can include
providing a second connector joined with the core post; and
releasably engaging a foot with the second connector. The base can
be disposed between the end of the support pod and the foot. The
second connector can be actuatable to release the foot from the
second end.
[0017] In yet another embodiment, the method can include defining a
slot in the shaft; sliding the slot relative to a pin, the pin
fixedly joined with the first connector; and rotating the actuator
sleeve relative to the core post so that the actuator sleeve moves
the core post and the slot relative to the pin
[0018] In even another embodiment, the method can include
translating rotational movement of the actuator sleeve to linear
movement of the core post to adjust the length of the base.
Optionally rotational movement of the actuator sleeve can be
prevented by engaging the locking ring with the actuator
sleeve.
[0019] The current embodiments of the base for a support pod and
method of use provide benefits related to weapon supports that
previously have been unachievable. For example, with the present
support pod, a user can quickly and precisely provide quick fine
adjustments to the length of a support pod with one hand.
Accordingly, the user can still use their other hand to maintain
the weapon in a ready position and/or check alignment of their
sights with a target while adjusting the barrel of the weapon with
the support pod via their other hand. This can increase firing
readiness, aiming and shot placement times. The base of the current
embodiments can quickly and easily replace traditional quick
detach, fixed length footpads for support pods. This can be helpful
where the support pod only provides several limited preset leg
lengths for height adjustment of that support pod. The adjustable
base thus can provide additional, almost infinite adjustability to
modify, align and balance the support pod, which can be a bipod, a
monopod, a tripod or any pod having any number of legs. Where the
locking ring is included, the base can be secured at a set or fixed
length to ensure the height adjustment is maintained in the set
position under heavy recoil. Where the second connector is
included, the base enables a user to mount their favorite footpads
for a customized setting. Where the actuator sleeve is rotatably, a
user can adjust and control the leg length adjustment via rotating
the actuator sleeve without changing the aiming position. Further,
the actuator sleeve is configured for rotation to make the length
adjustment, however, the core post extends and retracts, without
rotating the footpad. Therefore, the user does not have to lift the
support pod or footpad off the ground to make an adjustment to the
length of the base and thus the support pod to which the base is
attached.
[0020] These and other objects, advantages, and features of the
invention will be more fully understood and appreciated by
reference to the description of the current embodiments and the
drawings.
[0021] Before the embodiments of the invention are explained in
detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to
the details of operation or to the details of construction and the
arrangement of the components set forth in the following
description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention may be
implemented in various other embodiments and of being practiced or
being carried out in alternative ways not expressly disclosed
herein. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and
terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and
should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including" and
"comprising" and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items
listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional
items and equivalents thereof. Further, enumeration may be used in
the description of various embodiments. Unless otherwise expressly
stated, the use of enumeration should not be construed as limiting
the invention to any specific order or number of components. Nor
should the use of enumeration be construed as excluding from the
scope of the invention any additional steps or components that
might be combined with or into the enumerated steps or
components.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the base of a current
embodiment attached to a leg of a bipod mounted on a firearm;
[0023] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the bipod leg, the base and a
footpad;
[0024] FIG. 3 is a partial section view of the base in a retracted
mode;
[0025] FIG. 4 is a partial section view of the base in an extended,
unlocked mode; and
[0026] FIG. 5 is partial section view of the base in an extended,
locked mode.
DESCRIPTION OF THE CURRENT EMBODIMENTS
[0027] A current embodiment of a base for a support pod for a
weapon is illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 and generally designated 10. The
base 10 is configured to be mounted to a support pod 90, and in
particular a leg 91, 92 of the support pod 90, which is mounted to
a weapon that is fired at a target. The support pod 90 can be
configured to engage a surface of a weapon, for example a handguard
of a weapon 100. The weapon 100 illustrated is in the form of a
small arm, such as an AR-15 firearm, but of course can be any other
type of weapon, including but limited to small arms, such as
rifles, pistols, handguns, shotguns, of any firing capability,
automatic or semiautomatic or single shot; archery bows, such as
cross bows; paint markers, also known as paint ball guns, airsoft
guns, BB guns, pellet guns and any other weapon capable of firing a
projectile at a target. As shown, the exemplary firearm 100 can
include a stock 104 configured to shoulder against a user, a barrel
105, a handguard 106, an upper receiver 107 and a lower receiver
108, which is configured to receive a removable magazine 109.
[0028] The support pod 90 as shown can be in the form of a bipod,
having two support pods 91, 92 extending downward from the firearm
to support it. However, the support pod can be implemented in other
pod configurations, such as monopods, tripods, quad-pods or any
multi-leg pod configuration depending on the weapon application. In
the current embodiment, only one support pod of the bipod will be
described in connection with the base 10.
[0029] With reference to FIGS. 1-2, the pod 90, and in particular a
support pod 91, can include a support tube 93 and a leg 94 that are
telescopingly joined with one another. The support tube 93 can
extend outwardly and downwardly from the pod connector 96 that
engages weapon 100. The interior of the support tube can form a
cavity or compartment within the support tube. The leg 94 can be
telescopingly disposed in the support tube. The support pod 91 can
extend and retract, based on the telescoping of the leg relative to
the support tube. The movement of these two elements relative to
one another can adjust the length LL of the support pod.
[0030] The base 10 as noted above can be secured to the support pod
91, and optionally to the leg 94 at its lower end 95 as described
below. The base can include a base length that itself can be
modified or altered from a first base length BL1 to a second
greater base length BL2 and vice versa. This base length alteration
or modification can be independent and separate from any alteration
or modification of the length LL of the support pod. Put another
way, a user can change the length LL of the support pod, without
changing the length of the base. When this occurs however, the
overall length OL of the entire support pod plus the base will
change, even though the length of the base does not change. A user
also can change the can change the length of the base, without
changing the length LL of the support pod. When this occurs
however, the overall length OL of the entire support pod plus the
base will change, even though the length LL of the support pod does
not change. Of course, a user also can change the length of the
base and the length LL of the support pod nearly at the same time,
in different operations and with a different manipulation of
mechanisms, to alter the overall length OL.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 2, the support pod 91 can include a lower
end 95 that is distal from the pod connector 96. That lower end
optionally can be part of the leg 94. The lower end can be the
lowermost extremity of the support pod 91, and can be the end of
the leg 94. The lower end 95 can define a bore 95 be that extends
upwardly into a portion of the leg 94. A detent 95D, which
optionally can be a ball detent receptacle, can be included in the
lower end 95. This receptacle 95D can interface with a
corresponding detent 21D of a first connector 21 on the first end
11 associated with the base 10. The corresponding detent 21D can be
in the form of a ball detent that is urged to an extended position
with a spring (not shown). The first connector 21 can be inserted
into the bore 95B and can closely fit in that bore with tight
tolerances to avoid excess wiggle and movement of the base 10
relative to the leg 94 the support pod 91. The first connector
detent 21D can interlock with the detent 95D to secure the base 10
to the support pod 91. Although shown as a detent, any other
coupling mechanism that provides a quick detachment or removal of
the base 10 from the support pod 91 can be used. Other coupling
mechanisms can include cams, threaded portions, catches, locks,
latches and the like. The base 10 can be detachable from the
support pod 10 manually by a user, without the use of tools. In
some applications, however, a special or common tool can be used to
remove the base 10 from the support pod 91.
[0032] With reference to FIG. 3, the first connector 21 of the
support pod 10 can be disposed on the first end 11 of the base 10,
which is opposite from a second end 12 of the base. The first
connector 21 can be or can include a collar 23. The collar 23 can
include a limiter ring 24 that extends outwardly, away from the
longitudinal axis LA. The limiter ring 24 also can extend annually
and outwardly around an outer surface 210 of the first connector
21. As described below, the limiter ring 24 can be disposed
adjacent the actuator sleeve 30 so the actuator sleeve cannot ride
up the first connector or the collar in general. The limiter ring
24 can be bounded by a shoulder 25, which can be at least partially
disposed inside the actuator sleeve 30. This shoulder 25 can abut
an upper or first end or rim 31 of the actuator sleeve 30. That
upper end or rim 31 can slide and move relative to the shoulder 25
and the limiter ring 24, where included, when the actuator sleeve
30 rotates about the longitudinal axis LA.
[0033] The first end 11, first connector and/or the collar 23 can
define an internal bore 20 30 that can extend along the
longitudinal axis inward from the outer surface 210. This internal
bore 230 can be configured and sized to closely receive a shaft 42
of a core post 40 which also includes a threaded portion 41 as
described below. The first connector 21 can include a secondary
bore 250 which is defined inside the shoulder 25. This secondary
bore 250 can house an annular washer 26 and a bushing 27. The
washer 26 can be disposed between a portion of the first connector
and the bushing 27 so as to provide a tight fit between the bushing
and the first connector. Optionally the washer 26 can be an
elastomer, such as rubber or silicone, or metal, such as steel or
brass, or some other materials depending on the application.
[0034] The bushing 27 can be fixedly joined with the first end 11
and generally to the first connector 21 and collar 23. The bushing
27 can include a first flange 27F. This first flange 27F can be
spaced a distance D1 from an end 25E of the shoulder associated
with the collar 23 and first end 11. The bushing 27 can include a
tubular portion 2070 that extends from the first flange 27F, upward
inside the secondary bore opening 250 of the first connector 21 or
the first end 11. This tubular portion 27T can include a bore 270
that extends away from the flange 27F an upwardly toward the washer
26. In some cases, the internal diameter of the washer 26 and this
bore 270 as well as the bore 230 can be the same diameter.
[0035] As shown in FIG. 3, the core post 40 can include the shaft
42. The shaft 42 can include an elongated slot 42S that is closed
at opposing ends 42S1 and 42S2. The slot 42S can extend through the
shaft from one side surface to the other, for example, across a
diameter of the shaft where the shaft is cylindrical. Of course,
the shaft can be polygonal, elliptical of other cross sectional
shapes. The length of the slot SL can control the total amount of
length adjustment of the base. The base 10 can include a pin 50
that extends through and can be trapped within the slot 42S. The
pin 50 also can extend through corresponding hole 51 defined in the
first connector and/or the shoulder 25 as well as a hole 52 defined
in the bushing 27. The pin can pass completely through the shoulder
and the bushing and can be friction fit therein. In some cases, the
holes 51, 52 can be threaded to interface with corresponding
threads 50T of the pin 50. In this construction, the pin 50 can be
screwed into and secured in the respective holes 51, 52.
[0036] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the ends 54 and 55 of the pin 50
can be disposed inwardly from the interior 311 of the actuator
sleeve 30. This interior 311 can include an inner dimension or
diameter D2 of that actuator sleeve 30. In some cases optionally,
the length of the pin can be less than the inner diameter D2 of the
actuator sleeve 30. The pin itself can extend through the hole
defined by the collar and through the slot defined by the shaft 42.
The pin can be registered in and slidable relative to the slot 42S.
The pin can be fixedly joined with the first end 11, for example
the shoulder 25, the collar 23 and the first connector 21. The core
post 40 can be movably and slidably joined with the first end 21
and first connector. The core post can move linearly relative to
the longitudinal axis LA to extend and retract relative to the
first connector 21 and/or the first end 11, however, the core post
cannot be disassociated from the first end during the extension or
retraction. The pin 50 also projects through the shaft to prevent
disassociation, and relative rotational movement of the core post
relative to the first end 21, the collar 23, and the bushing 27.
Even with the connection via the shaft capturing the pin in the
slot 42S, however, the core post can remain linearly movable toward
and away from the first end upon actuation of the actuator sleeve
30.
[0037] As shown in FIG. 4, the actuator sleeve 30 includes an upper
rim 31. Distal from the upper rim 31 is the lower rim 32. The
actuator sleeve can include an internal threaded portion 35 which
can begin below or under the actuator sleeve flange 37F. The
interior 311 of the actuator sleeve can be threaded starting below
the flange 37F and extending to the second end or lower rim 32.
Again, as mentioned above, the actuator sleeve can be rotated in
direction R1 and/or R2, which generally can be clockwise and
counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis LA of the base 10. The
inner threads 35 can engage the threaded portion 41 of the core
post 40. Thus, when the actuator shaft 30 is rotated, the internal
threaded portion 35 engages the threaded portion 41. In so doing,
the interface of the threads will cause the core post 40 to extend
away from the first and 11 in direction E as shown in FIG. 4. In
turn, the base length can increase from BL1 shown in FIG. 3 to BL2
shown in FIG. 4. The base length BL2 is greater than the base
length BL1 due to the core post extending outward and away from the
first end 11 as well as the first connector 21 and the actuator
sleeve 30.
[0038] The second end 32 of the actuator sleeve can include an
engagement surface that engages the locking ring 60. When the
locking ring 60 engages the lower end or lower rim 32, the locking
ring can prevent rotation of the actuator sleeve 30 about the
longitudinal axis LA. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the locking
ring 60 is abutted against and frictionally engaging the lower end
or lower rim 32 of the actuator sleeve. With the locking ring in
this position, the actuator sleeve 30 is not adjustable, and the
base is set at a fixed length. Accordingly, the length of the base
cannot be adjusted with the actuator sleeve. This can be helpful
where the base undergoes vibration due to recoil of the weapon when
it is shot.
[0039] As shown, the locking ring 60 can be moved toward and away
from the first end 11 along the threaded portion 41 of the core
post 40 rotating in directions R1 or R2. The core post 40 also can
include another limiter ring 47. This limiter ring 47 can ensure
that the locking ring 60 does not thread off the core post.
Generally, the locking ring can be movably and rotatably disposed
between the actuator sleeve 30 and the limiter ring 47 at the
second end 12 of the base 10.
[0040] As shown in FIGS. 4-5, the locking ring 60 can be threaded
on the threaded portion 41 of the core post 40. The locking ring is
rotatable directions R1 or R2 to move along threaded portion
generally toward and away from the actuator sleeve. The locking
ring thus can be configured to selectively engage the actuator
sleeve 30 prevent the actuator sleeve from rotating. As a result,
the core post 40 can no longer extend and retract in directions E
or R as shown in FIG. 5. As a result, the locking ring can set the
length of the base at a fixed length. Of course, the locking ring
can be removed in some applications when the actuator sleeve
suitably engages the core post to set a length of the base 10.
[0041] The base 10 as mentioned above can include a first connector
21 that connects the base 10 to the support pod 91. The base also
can include a second connector 22 at the second end 12 of the base
distal from the first end 11. This second connector 22 can include
a bore 22B that is defined inside the core post 40 extending toward
the shaft 42. This second connector 22 can be sized and configured
to receive a footpad 70. In particular, the footpad 70 can include
a ground engaging portion 71 and a connecting element 72 extending
upwardly from ground engaging portion 71. The ground engaging
portion 71 can be in the form of a pointed element and optionally
can include one or more projections to engage the ground surface.
Alternatively, the ground engaging element 71 can include a rubber
foot that can be placed on surfaces without marring or damaging
them substantially. The connecting element 72 can be sized and
configured to fit inside the bore 22B.
[0042] The second connector 22 can include a detent 22D. This
detent 22D can include a hole defined by the core post optionally
in the threaded portion 41. The connection element 72 can include a
spring-loaded ball detent 22D that can engage in fit within the
hole defined by the threaded portion of the core post to detachably
secure the footpad 70 to the second connector 22 and second end 12
of the base. Optionally, the second connector 22 is configured to
releasably engage the footpad 70. The second connector 22 can be
actuatable to release the footpad 70 from the second end 12 of the
base upon actuation by user. For example, the user can pull on the
footpad to disengage the detent from the core post. As a result,
the connection element 72 can be slid out from the bore 22B. With
the footpad 70 being easily removable from the base 10, that
footpad can be replaced with another footpad suitable for a ground
surface upon which the base and support pod are used.
Alternatively, the footpad 70 can be modified or repaired and then
replaced and joined with the base 10. Although shown as a
removable, replaceable footpad 70, that footpad 70 alternatively
can be integrally secured to the core post 40 in some
applications.
[0043] As mentioned above, the bushing flange 27F can be spaced
from the end 25B of the shoulder or collar. The actuator sleeve 30
can include in inwardly extending flange 37F that fits within this
distance or the gap between the bushing flange 27F and the end 25B
of the collar or shoulder. The flange 37F can be trapped in this
corresponding annular groove between the bushing flange and the end
of the collar. Due to this entrapment, the actuator sleeve thus can
remain in a fixed linear position relative to the first end 11 and
the first connector 21. Put another way, the actuator sleeve 30
does not move linearly, and remains linearly stationary along the
longitudinal axis. The actuator sleeve, however, can still rotate
in direction R1 or R2 about the longitudinal axis. As it does, the
flange 37F slides and moves relative to the bushing flange 27F and
the end 25E of the collar 23.
[0044] A method of using the support pod 10 and base 20 to orient a
weapon will now be described. As mentioned above, the support pod
10 optionally can be in the form of a bipod that supports a weapon
100 in a firing position, for example as shown in FIG. 1. In
general, a user can adjust the length LL of the bipod leg or
support pod 91 to generally set the elevation of the barrel of the
weapon to fire at a target. After that length LL is set, the user
can use the base 10 to fine tune the final overall length OL of the
support pod plus base. The base 10 can be adjusted in its length,
for example, as shown in FIG. 1 from a first base length BL1 to a
second base length BL2, which as shown is greater than base length
BL1, but of course the adjustment could be reversed, going from a
greater length to a shorter length.
[0045] The method of adjusting the length of the base 10 can
include releasably engaging the support pod 91, for example its
lower end 95 with the first connector 21; rotating the actuator
sleeve 30 relative to the core post 40 to extend and/or retract the
core post along the longitudinal axis LA, to thereby adjust a
length of the base for example from BL1 to BL2, or vice versa or
some other length in between.
[0046] The method optionally can include moving the locking ring 60
along the core post 40 to selectively engage, which can include
engaging or disengaging, the actuator sleeve 30. This in turn can
prevent or allow the actuator sleeve from rotating. When the
locking ring is engaged with the actuator sleeve, this can set the
length of the base at a fixed length, optionally in a locked mode.
The base 10 can be transitioned from the locked mode to an
adjustment mode and back to a locked mode. The base 10 can
initially can be in a locked mode shown in FIG. 3, where the
locking ring 60 can engage the actuator sleeve 30. Due to the
interaction of the locking ring with the actuator sleeve, the
actuator sleeve 30 is immovable and non-rotatable, so the core post
likewise cannot be extended or retracted relative to the first
connector or other components. As shown in FIG. 4, the locking ring
can be moved away from the actuator sleeve so that the base is in
an adjustment mode. The actuator sleeve 30 can be rotated, so the
core post 40 can move and thus extend or retract relative to the
first connector or the other components, depending on the desired
length adjustment. Optionally, the rotational movement of the
actuator sleeve can translate to linear movement of the core post
to adjust the length of the base.
[0047] With reference to FIGS. 3-5, the actuator sleeve 30 can be
rotated in direction R1 after the locking ring 60 is converted to
an adjustment mode. Upon this rotation, the threads of the actuator
sleeve 30 engage the threaded portion 41 of the core post. As
result, the core post moves in direction E to extend away from the
first end 11 and the first connector 21. As this occurs, the shaft
slot 42S slides relative to the pin 50. Movement of the pin within
the slot 42S can be limited by the ends 42S1 and 42S2 of the slot.
These ends can set the minimum and maximum extension and retraction
of the core post 40, along with, in addition to or instead of the
actuator sleeve 30 engaging the locking ring or a portion of the
core post.
[0048] The shaft 42 also can slide and move relative to the bushing
27, washer 26 and out of the bore 230. The core post and the shaft
thus move along the longitudinal axis but do not rotate about that
axis LA. Accordingly, the length of the base increases from BL1 to
BL2. It is noted here that because the core post does not rotate,
the footpad 70 also does not rotate. Accordingly, the length of the
base can be increased, decreased or otherwise adjusted without
rotating the footpad and its ground engagement tip or portion 77
relative to the ground. In turn, this does not burrow the tip or
footpad into the ground or otherwise disturb the surface upon which
the footpad 70 is placed.
[0049] As shown in FIG. 5, after the length of the base 10 is
adjusted, the locking ring 60 can be tightened again and engage the
lower rim 32 of the actuator sleeve so that the actuator sleeve
will not rotate relative to the core post and/or first connector 21
in a locking mode. The process above can be repeated one or more
times to set the length of the base to a fixed length.
[0050] The method of using the base 10 optionally can include
attaching or detaching the foot pad 70 to or from the base. As
noted above, the base can include a second connector 22 joined with
the core post 40. The connection element 72 can be inserted into
the bore 22B of the second connector 22. The detent 22D can
interface with the corresponding portion of the detent in the core
post 40 to thereby releasably or detachably join the footpad 70
with the base. Of course, to remove the footbed 70 from the base
and the second connector 22, the detent 22D can be actuated to
remove it therefrom. A variety of different footpads can be
configured to fit the second connector 22. A user can switch
between a variety of differently configured footpads depending on
the ground surface upon which the bipod is to be used.
[0051] When the footpad 70 is installed, that footpad can engage
the ground surface to support the bipod and thus the weapon to
which the bipod is attached. The base can generally be disposed
between the end of the support pod 91 and the footpad 70 connecting
those elements to another. As mentioned above, the switch from one
footpad to another, the second connector can be actuated to release
the footpad from the second connector. The other footpad can then
be replaced and joined with the second connector 22.
[0052] Directional terms, such as "vertical," "horizontal," "top,"
"bottom," "upper," "lower," "inner," "inwardly," "outer" and
"outwardly," are used to assist in describing the invention based
on the orientation of the embodiments shown in the illustrations.
The use of directional terms should not be interpreted to limit the
invention to any specific orientation(s).
[0053] In addition, when a component, part or layer is referred to
as being "joined with," "on," "engaged with," "adhered to,"
"secured to," or "coupled to" another component, part or layer, it
may be directly joined with, on, engaged with, adhered to, secured
to, or coupled to the other component, part or layer, or any number
of intervening components, parts or layers may be present. In
contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly joined
with," "directly on," "directly engaged with," "directly adhered
to," "directly secured to," or "directly coupled to" another
element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers
present. Other words used to describe the relationship between
components, layers and parts should be interpreted in a like
manner, such as "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent" and similar
words. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all
combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0054] The above description is that of current embodiments of the
invention. Various alterations and changes can be made without
departing from the broader aspects of the invention as defined in
the appended claims, which are to be interpreted in accordance with
the principles of patent law including the doctrine of equivalents.
This disclosure is presented for illustrative purposes and should
not be interpreted as an exhaustive description of all embodiments
of the invention or to limit the scope of the claims to the
specific elements illustrated or described in connection with these
embodiments. For example, and without limitation, any individual
element(s) of the described invention may be replaced by
alternative elements that provide substantially similar
functionality or otherwise provide adequate operation. This
includes, for example, presently known alternative elements, such
as those that might be currently known to one skilled in the art,
and alternative elements that may be developed in the future, such
as those that one skilled in the art might, upon development,
recognize as an alternative. Further, the disclosed embodiments
include a plurality of features that are described in concert and
that might cooperatively provide a collection of benefits. The
present invention is not limited to only those embodiments that
include all of these features or that provide all of the stated
benefits, except to the extent otherwise expressly set forth in the
issued claims. Any reference to claim elements in the singular, for
example, using the articles "a," "an," "the" or "said," is not to
be construed as limiting the element to the singular. Any reference
to claim elements as "at least one of X, Y and Z" is meant to
include any one of X, Y or Z individually, any combination of X, Y
and Z, for example, X, Y, Z; X, Y; X, Z; Y, Z, and/or any other
possible combination together or alone of those elements, noting
that the same is open ended and can include other elements.
* * * * *