US20110226227A1 - Paintball Marker with Mode Selector - Google Patents
Paintball Marker with Mode Selector Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20110226227A1 US20110226227A1 US13/041,983 US201113041983A US2011226227A1 US 20110226227 A1 US20110226227 A1 US 20110226227A1 US 201113041983 A US201113041983 A US 201113041983A US 2011226227 A1 US2011226227 A1 US 2011226227A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- mode
- firing
- trigger
- mode selector
- paintball marker
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41B—WEAPONS FOR PROJECTING MISSILES WITHOUT USE OF EXPLOSIVE OR COMBUSTIBLE PROPELLANT CHARGE; WEAPONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F41B11/00—Compressed-gas guns, e.g. air guns; Steam guns
- F41B11/70—Details not provided for in F41B11/50 or F41B11/60
- F41B11/71—Electric or electronic control systems, e.g. for safety purposes
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41B—WEAPONS FOR PROJECTING MISSILES WITHOUT USE OF EXPLOSIVE OR COMBUSTIBLE PROPELLANT CHARGE; WEAPONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F41B11/00—Compressed-gas guns, e.g. air guns; Steam guns
- F41B11/50—Magazines for compressed-gas guns; Arrangements for feeding or loading projectiles from magazines
- F41B11/57—Electronic or electric systems for feeding or loading
Abstract
A paintball marker that includes both a mechanical firing mode and an electronically-assisted firing mode. In the mechanical firing mode, the marker launches projectiles without the aid of electronics and therefore does not require an energy source, such as batteries. In the electronically-assisted firing mode, an electronic circuit initiates launching of projectiles. A mode selector is provided that allows a user to select between the mechanical firing mode and the electronically-assisted firing mode.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/393,097 and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/133,661, filed Jun. 5, 2008, which claimed the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/942,144, filed on Jun. 5, 2007 and was a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/016,370 (now U.S. Pat. No. 7,699,047), filed Jan. 18, 2008, which claimed priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/880,989, filed on Jan. 18, 2007. The entire disclosure of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference.
- The present invention relates generally to paintball markers, and like devices for firing frangible projectiles. In particular, this invention relates to a paintball marker that can selectively fire in either a mechanical firing mode or an electronically-assisted firing mode.
- Paintball is a popular sport in which opposing sides attempt to seek out and “shoot” one another with paintballs. Players use paintball markers (also known as paintball guns) to propel the paintballs with compressed gas or combustible fuel. The paintballs are designed to break upon impact and leave a visible mark.
- Since paintball games often simulate combat, paintball markers that resemble military equipment are desirable to increase the realism of the experience. For example, paintball markers have been modified to resemble assault rifles, sniper rifles, etc. In some cases, however, such modifications can be difficult to install and remove. Moreover, the modifications may detract from the marker's functionality and reliability.
- According to one aspect, the invention provides a paintball marker with a receiver and a barrel extending from the receiver. The marker includes a valve arrangement configured to selectively vent gas to propel a projectile out of the barrel. A mode selector may be provided to switch between a mechanical firing mode and an electronically-assisted firing mode. The marker includes a trigger that is movable between a neutral position and a firing position. A mechanical launch assembly is provided that may actuate launching of a projectile responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position without electronic assistance. The marker may also include an electronic circuit configured to actuate launching of a projectile responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position. When the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode, the mechanical launch assembly actuates launching of a projectile. When the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode, the electronic circuit actuates launching of a projectile.
- In one embodiment, a mechanical linkage is movable between a first position away from the valve arrangement and a second position that actuates the valve arrangement. The mechanical linkage actuates the valve arrangement responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position when the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode. The electronic circuit initiates actuation of the valve arrangement responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position when the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode. For example, the electronic circuit may include a linear actuator configured to move to actuate the valve arrangement by energizing the linear actuator responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position when the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode.
- Embodiments are contemplated in which the mode selector includes a notch dimensioned to receive a tip extending from the trigger. The notch is aligned with the tip when the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode such that the tip is in registry with the notch when the trigger moves to the firing position. In a safety mode, however, the notch is not aligned with the tip to block the trigger from moving to the firing position. In another embodiment, a magnet may be associated with the mode selector and a magnetic sensor could be provided that is configured to detect the magnet when the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode, but not when the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode.
- Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of the illustrated embodiment exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived. It is intended that all such additional features and advantages be included within this description and be within the scope of the invention.
- The following description references the attached drawings which were given as non-limiting examples only, in which:
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example paintball marker constructed according with an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the example paintball marker shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a left side view of the example paintball marker shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a detailed view of the grip assembly for paintball marker shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 is a right side view of the example paintball marker shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6 is a rear view of the example paintball marker shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 7 is a front view of the example paintball marker shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 8 is a top view of the example paintball marker shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the example paintball marker shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 10 is a detailed perspective view of the forestock shown in the example paintball marker ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 10A is an exploded view of the forestock shown inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 11 is a detail perspective view of an alternative forestock that may be used with the example paintball ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example tool box constructed in accordance with the embodiment of the invention in which the tool box is in an open position to show items disposed therein; -
FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view showing the first and second supply lines in the example paintball marker ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 14 is a side cross-sectional view showing the second supply line portion of the example paintball marker shown inFIG. 1 , with an example rear stock attached to the marker; -
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the example paintball marker shown inFIG. 14 , with a cross-sectional view of an example rear stock attached to the marker; -
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the example paintball marker shown inFIG. 15 , with the rearstock detached from the marker; -
FIG. 17 is a detailed perspective view of a portion of a receiver according to an alternative embodiment; -
FIGS. 18A-18C show example rear stocks that may be attached to the marker; -
FIGS. 19A-19E show example forestocks that may be attached to the marker; -
FIGS. 20A-20E show example tool boxes that resemble magazines; -
FIGS. 21A-21D show example front sights and handles that may be connected to the marker; -
FIG. 22 shows an example vertical handle that may be connected to the marker; -
FIG. 23 shows an example grip assembly according to an alternative embodiment; -
FIG. 24 shows a cross-sectional view of the example grip assembly ofFIG. 23 ; -
FIG. 25 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the example grip assembly; -
FIG. 26 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the grip assembly; -
FIG. 27 is a schematic view showing possible inputs and outputs for the controller; -
FIG. 28 is a left side view of an example paintball marker according to another embodiment in the safe mode; -
FIG. 29 is a right side view of the example marker shown inFIG. 28 ; -
FIG. 30 is a left side view of the example marker shown inFIG. 28 with a portion of the body removed to show internal components; -
FIG. 31 is a detailed view of the marker shown inFIG. 30 in safe mode; -
FIG. 32 is a left side view of the marker shown inFIG. 28 in the mechanical firing mode; -
FIG. 33 is a left side view of the marker shown inFIG. 32 in the mechanical firing mode with a portion of the body removed to show internal components, including the trigger in a relaxed position; -
FIG. 34 is a detailed view of the marker shown inFIG. 33 with the trigger in a relaxed position; -
FIG. 35 is a left side view of the marker shown inFIG. 33 with the trigger in a firing position; -
FIG. 36 is a detailed view of the marker shown inFIG. 35 with the trigger in a firing position; -
FIG. 37 is a left side view of the marker shown inFIG. 28 in the electronic firing mode; -
FIG. 38 is a left side view of the marker shown inFIG. 37 in the electrical firing mode with a portion of the body removed to show internal components, including the trigger in a relaxed position; -
FIG. 39 is a detailed view of the marker shown inFIG. 37 with the trigger in a relaxed position; -
FIG. 40 is a left side view of the marker shown inFIG. 38 with the trigger in a firing position; -
FIG. 41 is a detailed view of the marker shown inFIG. 40 with the trigger in a firing position; -
FIG. 42 is a right side view of the marker shown inFIG. 32 in the mechanical firing mode with a portion of the body removed to show internal components; -
FIG. 43 is a detailed view of the marker shown inFIG. 42 with the mode selector switch shown in phantom; -
FIG. 44 is a detailed view of the marker shown inFIG. 28 showing a port configured to receive a pressure gauge; -
FIG. 45 is a detailed view of the marker shown inFIG. 29 showing a velocity adjustment mechanism; and -
FIG. 46 is a side cross-section view of the marker shown inFIG. 45 showing internal components related to the velocity adjustment mechanism. - Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein are illustrative, and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.
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FIGS. 1-9 illustrate anexample paintball marker 100 constructed according to an embodiment of the present invention. The invention could be implemented in a manual, semi-automatic, or automatic marker, even though a semi-automatic marker is shown for purposes of illustration. It should be appreciated that themarker 100 could use a variety of propellants to propel paintballs (or other projectiles) from themarker 100. The term “propellant” is broadly intended to encompass both compressed gas, such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen, as well as combustible fuel, such as propane, butane, and methylacetylene-propadiene (“MAPP”). - In the example shown, the
marker 100 includes abarrel 102 through which projectiles may be propelled. As shown, thebarrel 102 is coupled with areceiver 104, which defines an interior cavity dimensioned to house internal components of themarker 100. As used herein, the term “coupled” is broadly intended to encompass both direct and indirect connections. Typically, thebarrel 102 includes external threads that may be received by internal threads in thereceiver 104. By way of other examples, thebarrel 102 may attach to thereceiver 104 with an interference fit, frictional fit, or unitary formation. Thereceiver 104 may be formed from a variety of materials, such as aluminum, stainless steel, magnesium, or composites. In embodiments in which thereceiver 104 is made of magnesium, it has been found that the production molds last substantially longer than that of aluminum. In some embodiments, thereceiver 104 may have a clamshell-type body. - In the embodiment shown, the
marker 100 includes aforestock 106. As best seen inFIGS. 10 and 10A , theforestock 106 may include abore 107 dimensioned to receive thebarrel 102. Preferably, theforestock 106 may be detachably coupled to thereceiver 104. In the example shown, afirst pin 108 and asecond pin 110 extend throughholes 111 in theforestock 106 andholes 113 in the receiver 104 (FIG. 2 ), thereby coupling theforestock 106 to thereceiver 104. In this example, theforestock 106 may be detached from thereceiver 104 by removing thepins forestock 106 off thebarrel 102. Conversely, a user may mount theforestock 106 to themarker 100 by sliding theforestock 106 over thebarrel 102 such that theholes 111 in theforestock 106 and theholes 113 in thereceiver 104 are aligned. Thepins forestock 106 andreceiver 104 to couple theforestock 106 to thereceiver 104. As best seen inFIG. 7 , thepins bias member 105 to prevent accidental removal of thepins first pin 108 andsecond pin 110 are shown for purposes of illustration, it should be appreciated that other quick connections may be used to couple theforestock 106 to thereceiver 104. - In some cases, the
forestock 106 may be associated with abarrel adapter 109. The barrel adapter 109 (best seen inFIG. 10A ) allows a user to configure themarker 100 with barrels of different diameters. Consider a situation in which a user desires to use barrels with either a ⅞ inch diameter or a 1 inch diameter. Thebore 107 could be dimensioned to receive the 1 inch barrel. If the ⅞ inch barrel is desired to be used, the user would place the barrel through theadapter 109. In this example, the opening in theadapter 109 would be dimensioned to receive the barrel, which is ⅞ inches in this example. The outer diameter of theadapter 109 would be dimensioned to be received by thebore recess 115 formed in theforestock 106. - In some embodiments, the
forestock 106 may include abottom rail 112, aside rail 114, and/or atop rail 116 for mounting accessories, such as sites, scopes, etc. In the example shown, themarker 100 includes afront site 118 mounted to thetop rail 116. It should be appreciated that themarker 100 could be customized with other types of sites, such as those shown inFIGS. 21A-21B . By way of a further example, a vertical handle, such as shown inFIG. 22 , could be attached to thebottom rail 112. - Preferably, the user may select between a plurality of interchangeable forestocks, which each allow a suitable quick connection with the
receiver 104 to customize themarker 100. For example, if thereceiver 104 includesholes 113, each of the forestocks could includeholes 111 to allow a quickconnection using pins marker 100 are illustrated in Figures 19A-19E. It should be appreciated that other styles of forestocks could be used with themarker 100. - In some embodiments, the
marker 100 may include atool box 120 for storing one or more items. In this embodiment, thetool box 120 is coupled with and extends from thereceiver 104. Typically, thetool box 120 is detachably coupled with thereceiver 104; however, thetool box 120 could be integral with or permanently affixed to thereceiver 104. Embodiments are also contemplated in which thetool box 120 could be an internal storage compartment in thereceiver 104 that could be accessed by a user. - Preferably, the
tool box 120 resembles a magazine that feeds projectiles into the receiver. Instead of feeding projectiles into thereceiver 104, however, thetool box 120 would typically hold tools for maintaining themarker 100, including but not limited to hex wrenches or a tube of oil. As shown, thetool box 120 includes aslot 122 dimensioned to receive afirst supply line 124. In other embodiments, thetool box 120 could include a connection for coupling thefirst supply line 124. Preferably, thefirst supply line 124 provides a source of compressed gas for avalve arrangement 178 within the marker 100 (seeFIG. 13 ). In some cases, if themarker 100 were a combustible fuel powered marker, thefirst supply line 124 may provide a supply of fuel, such as propane, to a combustion chamber within themarker 100. - The
tool box 120 may include an internal storage compartment for storing items, such as tools. In the example shown inFIG. 12 , thetool box 120 includes afirst side 130 and asecond side 132 pivotally coupled with a bottom 134. Although the embodiment shown includes an open top, thetool box 120 may be entirely closed since projectiles are not fed into thereceiver 104 from thetool box 120 in this embodiment. - As shown, the
tool box 120 includes afirst hinge 136 and asecond hinge 138 that allow thefirst side 130 andsecond side 132 to pivot, respectively. In this example, thehinges sides tool box 120 hinged at the bottom 134, it should be appreciated that thetool box 120 could be hinged at thesides - In some cases, the tool box's 120 interior may include tool holders configured to receive a specific arrangement of tools (or other items). In the example shown, the
tool box 120 includesslots 140 dimensioned to receivehex wrenches 142 in thefirst side 130 of thetool box 120. Thesecond side 132 includescomplementary ridges 144 configured to close theslots 140 when thetool box 120 is closed, thereby holding thewrenches 142 in place. In this example, thefirst side 130 of thetool box 120 also includes an area for a tube ofoil 146 that could be used to maintain themarker 100. It should be appreciated that the internal cavity of thetool box 120 could be configured to hold a variety of tools, accessories, or other items. - In the example shown, the
tool box 120 includes anopening 143 dimensioned to receive aninternal latch 145 when thetool box 120 is closed. In this example, thetool box 120 includes anopening 147 dimensioned to receive a latch mechanism in atool box mount 121 for detachably coupling thetool box 120 to thereceiver 104. - Referring again to
FIGS. 1-9 , themarker 100 preferably includes atool box mount 121 configured to receive thetool box 120. As shown, thetool box mount 121 includes a release button 123 (best seen inFIG. 5 ) that controls a latch mechanism associated with thetool box mount 121. In the example shown, the latch mechanism engages theopening 147 in thetool box 120 to selectively release thetool box 120 from thetool box mount 121. It should be appreciated that a variety of mechanisms could be used to detachably couple thetool 120 with thetool box mount 121, such as an interference fit, frictional fit, magnets, etc. - In the example shown (as best seen in
FIG. 2 ), thetool box mount 121 is coupled with thereceiver 104 using an interference fit. As shown, thereceiver 104 includesridges 129 that extend from thereceiver 104. The top portion of thetool box mount 121 includesgrooves 125 formed in aflange 127 that are configured to receive theridges 129. To couple thetool box mount 121 to thereceiver 104, the user would align thegrooves 125 with theridges 129, such that theridges 129 extend through thegrooves 125. Thetool box mount 121 may then be moved toward thebarrel 102 in the example shown such that theflange 127 creates an interference fit with theridges 129. The user may detach thetool box mount 121 by moving thetool box mount 121 in an opposite direction (away from thebarrel 102 in this example) until theridges 129 are aligned with thegrooves 125. Other mechanisms, such as a frictional fit, could also be used to couple thetool box mount 121 with thereceiver 104. - Preferably, a plurality of interchangeable tool boxes and tool box mounts may be provided to allow customization of the
marker 100. Typically, each of the tool boxes includes an interior cavity for storing items, such as tools. Examples of tool boxes that resemble magazines of types used for feeding projectiles into the receivers of actual firearms are shown inFIGS. 20A-20E . It should be appreciated that other styles could also be provided. Thetool box 120 may be formed from a variety of materials, including but not limited to plastic, aluminum and magnesium. - The
marker 100 may include agrip assembly 146. In the example shown, thegrip assembly 146 includes agrip 148 that is dimensioned for a user to grasp. Thegrip assembly 146 includes atrigger 150 for actuation by the user to fire themarker 100. Thetrigger 150 may mechanically and/or electrically selectively fire themarker 100. In the example shown, thetrigger 150 is surrounded by atrigger guard 152. As shown, themarker 100 includes asafety 154. In the position shown inFIG. 1 , thesafety 154 prevents themarker 100 from firing; if moved to a fire position, thesafety 154 allows themarker 100 to fire projectiles. Although the example shown includes a lever for actuating thesafety 154, it should be appreciated that other forms of safety could be used. - In some embodiments, the
grip assembly 146 may be detachably coupled with thereceiver 104. As shown, thegrip assembly 146 includes ahole 155 that is alignable with ahole 157 in thereceiver 104 through which apin 156 may be received. By removing the pin 156 (and the lower pin 170), thegrip assembly 146 may be detached from thereceiver 104. In the example shown, the lower portion of thegrip 148 includes anadaptor 158 configured to receive a propellant source, such as a canister of carbon dioxide or nitrogen. As discussed below, theadaptor 158 andfirst supply line 124 are optional, depending on whether the rear stock attached to thereceiver 104 includes aninternal passageway 186 for connection to a propellant source (SeeFIGS. 15-16 ). - In the example shown, a
picatinny rail 160 is attached to a top portion of thereceiver 104. Thepicatinny rail 160 may be used to add risers, sites, handles, or other items to thereceiver 104. As shown, arear sight 161 is coupled to thepicatinny rail 160. By way of another example, carry handles, such as shown inFIGS. 21C-21D , could be mounted to thepicatinny rail 160. - In the embodiment shown, the
marker 100 includes ahopper 162 for holding a plurality of projectiles to be fired. As shown, thehopper 162 includes alid 164 pivotably mounted to thehopper 162 to selectively open/close an opening to thehopper 162. Preferably thehopper 162 has a low profile to reduce the target area of the user and allow a better line of site to fire themarker 100. By way of example only, thehopper 162 may have a length that is more than three times its height in some cases (seeFIG. 3 ). As shown, thehopper 162 is offset from thereceiver 104 to allow a better line of site for the user to fire themarker 100. However, thehopper 162 could be coupled to thereceiver 104 on the top (e.g., picatinny rail 160) or other location of thereceiver 104. - In some cases, the
hopper 162 may be coupled with afeed mechanism 166 that feeds projectiles into thereceiver 104. An example feed mechanism that could be used with themarker 100 is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,739,323, which is incorporated herein by reference. - Instead of a separate feed mechanism, the
hopper 162 may include an integral feed mechanism in some embodiments. For example, thehopper 162 may be an agitating or force-fed hopper. In some cases, the projectiles may be gravity fed into thereceiver 104. For example, the lower portion of thehopper 162 may include a passage that is coupled directly with thereceiver 104, so that projectiles may be fed one-by-one through the passage into thereceiver 104. In some embodiments, the receiver 104 (or other portion of the marker 100) may include an internal cavity for receiving a plurality of projectiles. By way of another example, thereceiver 104 may be stick fed with projectiles. - In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 1-9 , themarker 100 includes adetachable end cap 168. If the user desires to have a rear stock, theend cap 168 may be removed and a rear stock coupled to the receiver 104 (seeFIGS. 14-16 ). In the example shown, pins 170 pass through projections 172 (seeFIGS. 2 and 13 ) in theend cap 168 and holes in thereceiver 104 andgrip assembly 146. Removal of thepins 170 allows the user to detach theend cap 168 from thereceiver 104. In the example shown, theend cap 168 includes anoptional ring 174 that user may grasp to remove theend cap 168. As discussed below, a plurality of interchangeable rear stocks may be substituted for theend cap 168 to customize themarker 100. Preferably, each of the rear stocks include similarly arranged holes such that the rear stocks may be attached to thereceiver 104 using thepins 170. Examples of rear stocks that could be used with themarker 100 are shown inFIGS. 18A-18C . - Referring now to
FIG. 13 , there is shown a detailed cross-sectional view of themarker 100. As shown, a sear 188 is interposed between thetrigger 150 and a 190. In this example, the sear 188 is disposed onpivot pin 192 and is biased byspring 194 toward engagement of therear bolt 190. When themarker 100 is in the cocked position, actuation of thetrigger 150 releases therear bolt 190 from the sear 188. In the example shown, themarker 100 is in the cocked position when therear bolt 190 is in a rearward position in which the sear 188 prevents forward movement of therear bolt 190. In the example shown, themarker 100 moves to a discharge position by releasing of therear bolt 190 from the sear 188 due to user actuation of thetrigger 150. It should be appreciated that other trigger assemblies, both mechanical and electrical, may be suitable to selectively fire themarker 100 and are contemplated herein. - In the example shown, the
rear bolt 190 moves under the bias ofdrive spring 196 upon actuation of thetrigger 150. Apin 198 is disposed within thespring 196 in the example shown. Therear bolt 190 is coupled to afront bolt 200 via alinkage arm 202 in the example shown. This causes concomitant movement of thefront bolt 200 with the movement of therear bolt 190. Thefront bolt 200 is adapted to push a projectile into thebarrel 102 during firing. - The bias of
drive spring 196 onrear bolt 190 causesrear bolt 190 to depress animpact pin 204 on thevalve assembly 178, which causes thevalve assembly 178 to release a quantity of compressed gas, thereby causing a projectile to be propelled out thebarrel 102. Another quantity of compressed gas may be released on the side ofvalve assembly 178 in which therear bolt 190 is disposed, which will recoil therear bolt 190 to the cocked position. Example valve arrangements and firing mechanisms that could be used are shown and described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,189,609, 5,722,383, and 6,550,468, which are each hereby incorporated by reference. - In the embodiment shown, a
second supply line 176 can be seen. Preferably, themarker 100 may be configured such that either thefirst supply line 124 or thesecond supply line 176 may supply thevalve arrangement 178 with a propellant with which the projectiles may be fired. Preferably, thefirst supply line 124 or thesecond supply line 176 provides compressed gas, such as carbon dioxide or nitrogen, to thevalve arrangement 178. As discussed above, however, thesupply lines - In this example, the
marker 100 includes acoupling 180 associated with thefirst supply line 124. Typically, the user would choose between thefirst supply line 124 and thesecond supply line 176. If the user decided to use thefirst supply line 124, the user would put thefirst supply line 124 andcoupling 180 associated with thefirst supply line 124 into the receiver. This would supply compressed gas to thevalve arrangement 178 via thefirst supply line 124. A passageway is defined in thereceiver 104 for receiving thesecond supply line 176. Preferably, the passageway extends from the valve arrangement to the rear portion of thereceiver 104 so that thesecond supply line 176 may be aligned with a passage with a rear stock which is in fluid communication with a supply of compressed gas. If the user desired to use thesecond supply line 176, the first supply line and associatedcoupling 180 would typically be removed and the second supply line and an associatedcoupling 180 inserted into the passageway. Thecoupling 180 provides thevalve arrangement 178 with a supply of compressed gas from the first supply line in the example shown. - In some cases, the
coupling 180 may be configured to receive both thefirst supply line 124 and thesecond supply line 176. For example, thecoupling 180 may include a first check valve (not shown) at the inlet of thefirst supply line 124 into thecoupling 180 and a second check valve (not shown) at the inlet of thesecond supply line 176 into thecoupling 180. With this arrangement, the inlets would only be open due to the supply of compressed gas to open a respective check valve. It should be appreciated that other mechanisms, both mechanical and electrical, could be used to selectively supply thevalve arrangement 176 with a flow of compressed air from either thefirst supply line 124 or thesecond supply line 176. In some embodiments, thecoupling 180 could be configured to supply compressed air from both thefirst supply line 124 and thesecond supply line 176. In the example shown inFIG. 13 , thesecond supply line 176 does not supply compressed gas to thevalve arrangement 178 due to theend cap 178 being connected to thereceiver 104. As discussed below, thesecond supply line 176 may continue flow through the rear stock, which may be connected with a source of compressed gas. -
FIG. 14 shows an example in which arear stock 182 has been coupled with thereceiver 104. In the example shown, therear stock 182 includes aprojection 184 with holes dimensioned to receive thepins 170. Accordingly, a user may customize amarker 100 with a plurality of interchangeable rear stocks that may be coupled to thereceiver 104. Examples of rear stocks that may be coupled to themarker 100 are shown inFIGS. 18A-18C . It should be appreciated that other types of rear stocks could also be provided. -
FIGS. 15-16 show the example embodiment ofFIG. 14 with therear stock 182 shown in sectional view. As shown, therear stock 182 includes apassageway 186 that is in fluid communication with thesecond supply line 176. Thepassageway 186 may be in fluid communication with the supply of compressed gas (or other propellant), thereby providing compressed gas to thevalve arrangement 178. In some cases, therear stock 184 may include arecess 205 for receiving an end of thepin 198. -
FIG. 17 shows the right half of anexample receiver 104. Although theexample receiver 104 shown includes holes that could be used for quick connections of rear stocks, fore stocks, etc., thisreceiver 104 could also be used with a marker without such customization features. In some cases, thevalve assembly 178 may be tapped to supply compressed gas for other functions associated with themarker 100. For example, thefeed mechanism 166 could be pneumatically actuated with compressed gas tapped off the valve assembly. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,739,323 shows a feed mechanism that may be pneumatically actuated. By way of another example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,550,468 shows a trigger assist that may be pneumatically actuated. In receivers formed by two halves that are connected together, such as the example half shown, gas that is tapped off thevalve assembly 178 tends to escape through the seam between the halves of thereceiver 104. - In the example shown, the
receiver 104 includes a groove 206 dimensioned to receive a seal 208, such as an O-ring. Preferably, the groove 206 is substantially elliptical is shape, which retains the seal 208 without a fastener or adhesive. The groove 206 and seal 208 are disposed within thereceiver 104 preferably adjacent the portion of thevalve assembly 178 that is tapped to prevent escape of gas through the seam in thereceiver 104. As shown, a first outlet port 210 and a second outlet port 212, which are associated with tapped portions of thevalve assembly 178, are disposed within the groove. Additionally outlet ports (or a single outlet port) may be provided. -
FIGS. 23-27 show agrip assembly 214 according to an alternative embodiment, which uses electronics (at least in part) to actuate firing of themarker 100. Referring toFIG. 23 , thegrip assembly 214 includes agrip 216 that is dimensioned for a user to grasp. As discussed below, the electronics (and related components) for controlling actuation of themarker 100 are disposed within thegrip 216. Thegrip assembly 214 includes atrigger 218 for actuation by the user to fire themarker 100. In the example shown, thetrigger 218 is surrounded by atrigger guard 220. As shown, the lower portion of thegrip 216 includes anadaptor 222 configured to receive a propellant source, such as a canister of carbon dioxide or nitrogen. As discussed above, theadaptor 222 may be optional, depending on the type of rear stock attached to thereceiver 104. - In this example, the
grip 216 includes abattery door 224 that may be removed to provide access to a battery associated with the electronics (and possibly other components internal to the grip 216). Although thebattery door 224 extends longitudinally along the rear portion of thegrip 216 in the example shown, it should be appreciated that thebattery door 224 could be located elsewhere on thegrip 216 depending on the circumstances. As shown, thebattery door 224 includes aclasp 226 for detachable coupling with thebattery door 224. It should be appreciated that other mechanisms could be used for selectively opening/closing thebattery door 224 to the rear portion of thegrip 216. - In the embodiment shown, the
grip assembly 214 includes amode selector 226 for selecting among multiple firing modes. The term “firing mode” is intended to be broadly construed to include a safety position in which themarker 100 is prevented from firing, as well as modes that in themarker 100 are allowed to fire. In this example, themode selector 226 includes alever 228 for rotating themode selector 226 between different firing modes. In the example shown, amode indicator 230 aligns with the selected firing mode. As shown, themode indicator 230 specifies that afirst mode 232 is selected. By rotating themode selector 226, asecond mode 234 or athird mode 236 could be selected. As shown, an end of thelever 228 defines anopening 238 for receivingdetents 240 to retain themode selector 226 in the selected mode. Although arotary mode selector 226 is shown for purposes of example, it should be appreciated that other non-rotating mode selectors, such as a linearly-moving lever, could be used. Although the embodiment shown includes three modes, it should be appreciated that embodiments are contemplated with only two modes; additionally, embodiments are contemplated with more than three modes. -
FIGS. 24-26 show cross-section views of theexample grip assembly 214 shown inFIG. 23 . Unlike the embodiment described previously with respect toFIG. 13 , there is no contact between the trigger and sear in the embodiment shown. Instead, a controller circuit electronically detects movement of the trigger and actuates movement of the sear to fire themarker 100. In some embodiments, the manner by which the controller circuit controls movement of the sear could depend upon the firing mode and/or other firing characteristics selected by the user. - In the embodiment shown, a sear 242 pivots about a
pivot pin 244 and the rear section (right portion inFIG. 24 ) is urged upward (in this example) by a biasingmember 246. A dependingportion 248 of the sear 242 extends toward a position adjacent alinear actuator 250, such as a solenoid. In the embodiment shown, the dependingportion 248 is unitary with the sear 242; however, embodiments are contemplated in which the dependingportion 248 and the sear 242 could be separate components that are coupled together. As shown, arod 252 of thelinear actuator 250 moves between a retracted position and an extended position (shown). When therod 252 moves to the extended position, this pushes the dependingportion 248 away from thelinear actuator 250, which rotates the sear 242 (clockwise as shown) to fire themarker 100. For example, this movement of the sear 242 could release therear bolt 190, which causes firing of themarker 100. In other embodiments, such as using combustible gas, this movement of the sear 242 could be used to initiate ignition in a combustion chamber. - A
controller 254 controls movement of therod 252 responsive to movement of thetrigger 218. Thecontroller 254 could be a microcontroller, for example, that is programmed to perform the functions described herein. Other electronic components, such as acapacitor 255, could be associated with the controller.FIG. 27 is a simplified schematic representation showing possible inputs and outputs for thecontroller 254, according to an embodiment, which will be described below. - Referring again to
FIGS. 24-26 , thecontroller 254 determines when thetrigger 218 is pulled by using one or more proximity sensors to detect the position of thetrigger 218. Although the embodiment described below uses magnetic sensors, embodiments are contemplated in which other types of proximity sensors could be used, including but not limited to optical sensors, capacitive sensors, and inductive sensors. - In the example shown, a
magnet 256 is associated with thetrigger 218 that moves concomitant with thetrigger 218. As shown, themagnet 256 is embedded in thetrigger 218; however, embodiments are contemplated in which the magnet could be coupled with thetrigger 218, such as using a fastener or adhesive. One or more magnetic sensors, such as Hall effect sensors, may be provided to detect the trigger's 218 position by detecting the magnetic flux associated with themagnet 256. - For example, in the embodiment shown, the
magnet 256 is oriented to move between afirst trigger detector 258 and asecond trigger detector 260 when the trigger is pulled (as best seen inFIG. 26 ). With this arrangement, thecontroller 254 actuates therod 252 to the extended position when both thefirst trigger detector 258 and thesecond trigger detector 260 sense the magnetic field of themagnet 256. Typically, thefirst trigger detector 258 and thesecond trigger detector 260 are Hall effect sensors. With such an arrangement, thetrigger detectors controller 254 that thetrigger 218 has been pulled. In response, thecontroller 254 will actuate therod 252 to the extended position, thereby moving the sear 242. When the magnetic flux density decreases below a threshold level, thetrigger detectors controller 254 that thetrigger 218 has been released. Thecontroller 254 will move therod 252 to the retracted position. Typically, therod 252 is held in the extended position for a pre-determined period of time, not dependent on the amount of time thetrigger 218 is pulled. - In some embodiments, at least one of the
first trigger detector 258 and thesecond trigger detector 260 are unipolar Hall effect sensors. By using a unipolar Hall effect sensor, safety advantages are provided because a specific magnetic orientation would be required to fire themarker 100, which reduces the possibility that external magnets would inadvertently cause themarker 100 to fire. For example, consider an example in which thefirst trigger detector 258 is a unipolar Hall effect sensor that switches on in response to a south pole and thesecond trigger detector 260 is an omnipolar Hall effect sensor that switches on in response to either a north pole or a south pole. In this example, themagnet 256 would be oriented on thetrigger 218 such that the south pole would be exposed to thefirst trigger detector 258 when the user pulls thetrigger 218. With this type of arrangement, themagnet 256 could include a pole indicator printed on a side, such as text or a graphic, for maintenance purposes if the user needed to replace themagnet 256 so that the correct orientation could be determined. - In some embodiments, a
magnet 262 is associated with themode selector 226 that moves concomitant with rotation of themode selector 226. Themagnet 262 may be embedded in themode selector 226 coupled with themode selector 226 using a fastener, adhesive, or otherwise associated with themode selector 226. In the embodiment shown, amode detector 263 is provided to detect the position of themode selector 226. For example, the mode detector could be a magnetic sensor, such as a Hall-effect sensor, to detect the mode selector's 226 position by detecting the magnetic flux associated with themode selector 226. This allows thecontroller 254 to determine the firing mode selected by the user. Other embodiments are contemplated in which other types of electronics could be used to select the firing mode, including but not limited to tactile switches, optical-electronics, momentary switches, push-button switches, rotary switches, and capacitive sensors. - In the embodiment shown, the
grip assembly 214 includes auser interface 264 and astatus indicator 266 on an end of thegrip 216 opposite thebattery door 224. As shown, afirst opening 268 provides access to theuser interface 264, while asecond opening 270 exposes thestatus indicator 266. In the example shown, theuser interface 264 is a momentary push-button switch; however, other embodiments are contemplated in which other suitable switches, knobs, etc., could be used. Although thestatus indicator 266 will be described herein as a LED with multiple colors (e.g., red/green/orange), it should be appreciated that other mechanisms, such as audible alerts, a LCD display, etc., would be suitable to provide information to the user regarding themarker 100. - The
user interface 264 allows the user to turn off the electronics. For example, pushing theuser interface 264 for greater than a specific time, such as two seconds, could turn off the electronics. Thestatus indicator 266 could be used to let the user know that the electronics is turned off. For example, the status indicator could light up red when the user has pushed the user interface for a sufficient period to turn off the electronics. - Additionally, the
user interface 264 can be used to adjust the manner by which themarker 100 fires. For example, theuser interface 264 could allow the user to select the default firing mode associated withmodes user interface 264 for approximately 0.5 seconds (or another predetermined time) and releases theuser interface 264, then thestatus indicator 266 starts flashing orange (or other color). In this example, the status indicator could flash a number of times corresponding with default firing mode. By way of example only, the firing modes could be: (1) safe three-round burst—pulling the trigger three times in less than a second will result in a 3-shot burst; (2) safe full-auto—pulling the trigger three times in less than a second will result in full-automatic firing; (3) auto-response—firing upon both pulling and releasing the trigger; (4) turbo mode—pulling the trigger three times in less than one second will result in full-automatic firing at a rate of 15 bps (or other pre-determined rate); (5) semi-auto—firing each time the trigger is pulled. In this example, the user will know that themarker 100 is set to the safe full-auto mode as the default firing mode if thestatus indicator 266 flashes twice. It should be appreciated that the firing modes listed above are provided for example purposes only and are not intended to limit the types or number of firing modes that could be used. - In some embodiments, the user can change multiple characteristics by which the
marker 100 fires. Consider an example in which four characteristics of themarker 100 could be changed: (1) dwell—the amount of time that thelinear actuator 250 is powered during a trigger pull; (2) debounce—the minimum amount of time between accepted trigger pulls; (3) rate-of-fire; and (4) default firing mode. By way of example only, the user could enter a programming mode to change one or more of these characteristics by simultaneously pushing theuser interface 264 and thetrigger 218 for a predetermined period of time. - Once in the programming mode, the
status indicator 266 could indicate the particular characteristic selected to be changed. By way of example only, thestatus indicator 266 could indicate the selected characteristics as follows: (1) solid red—dwell; (2) solid green—debounce; (3) flashing green—rate-of-fire; and (4) alternating red/green—default firing mode. In some embodiments, the user could cycle between these characteristics using thetrigger 218. In this example, the status indicator would cycle from solid red (dwell) to solid green (debounce) when thetrigger 218 is pulled and then from solid green (debounce) to flashing green (rate-of-fire) when thetrigger 218 is pulled again and then from flashing green (rate-of-fire) to alternating red/green (default firing mode) if thetrigger 218 is pulled again. To select a particular characteristic to change, the user could pull and hold the trigger for a predetermined time, for example. When this is done, thestatus indicator 266 could flash the current value selected for the characteristic. If the user selected debounce, for example, thestatus indicator 266 could flash 30 times if the debounce value had been set to 30 milliseconds. - To enter a different value, the user could pull the trigger the number of times needed to select the desired value. Consider an example in which the user selected the dwell characteristic to change. In this example, the default dwell value could be 8 milliseconds and may be adjusted between 2-20 milliseconds. If the user wanted to change the dwell value to 10 milliseconds, the user would pull the
trigger 10 times. Once the user has entered the desired value, thestatus indicator 266 could flash (or otherwise indicate) that the value is accepted and stored. - Consider another example in which the user selected the debounce value to change. In this example, the default debounce value could be 52 milliseconds and may be adjusted between 25-65 milliseconds. If the user wanted to change the debounce value to 25 milliseconds, for example, the user would pull the trigger 25 times. Once the user has entered the desired value, the
status indicator 266 could flash (or otherwise indicate) that the value is accepted and stored. - Consider a further example in which the user selected the rate-of-fire value to change. In this example, the default rate-of-fire value could be 13 balls per second and may be adjusted between 8-30 balls per second. If the user wanted to change the rate-of-fire value to 20 balls per second, for example, the user would pull the trigger 20 times. Once the user has entered the desired value, the
status indicator 266 could flash (or otherwise indicate) that the value is accepted and stored. - Consider another example in which the user selected the firing mode value to change. In this example, the firing mode value could be 2, which could correspond to safe full-auto. If the user wanted to change the firing mode to auto-response, which corresponds to a firing mode value of 3 in this example, the user would pull the trigger 3 times. Once the user has entered the desired value, the
status indicator 266 could flash (or otherwise indicate) that the value is accepted and stored. -
FIGS. 28-46 illustrate anexample paintball marker 300 constructed according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, themarker 300 can fire in either a mechanical firing mode or an electronically-assisted firing mode, depending on the firing mode selected by the user.FIGS. 32-35 show various views of themarker 300 in the mechanical firing mode andFIGS. 36-41 show various views of themarker 300 in the electronically-assisted firing mode. One advantage of this embodiment is the ability to continue firing themarker 300 in the mechanical firing mode even after the power source for the electronically-assisted firing mode is drained and can no longer sufficiently power the electronics. -
FIG. 28 is a left side view of anexample paintball marker 300. In this example, themarker 300 has three modes that can be selected by the user: asafe mode 302 that prevents themarker 300 from firing, amechanical firing mode 306 in which a mechanical launch assembly actuates launching of projectiles without the aid of electronics, or an electrically-assistedfiring mode 308, which could be programmed in a manner that changes various firing characteristics. The term “electronically-assisted firing mode” is intended to mean a firing mode in which an electronic circuit is used to initiate firing of a projectile. As shown inFIG. 28 , the safe mode has been selected, which prevents themarker 300 from firing even if thetrigger 304 is pulled. Although three modes are shown in this example, it should be appreciated that additional modes could be provided if desired. In the example shown, themarker 300 includes amode selector 301 from which the user may select a desired mode. Although themode selector 301 rotates betweenmodes FIG. 44 ) can be seen which allows a pressure gauge to be inserted to be received to provide a readout of internal pressure within themarker 300. Although pressure gauges associated with markers are known, an embodiment of themarker 300 allows the pressure gauge to be removed when not needed. A removable pressure gauge allows themarker 300 to be tested and for maintenance purposes. When not needed, the pressure gauge can be removed and replaced with a plug that prevents escape of gas so the marker is more rugged and authentic looking. -
FIG. 29 is a right side view of theexample marker 300 shown inFIG. 28 . In this view, avelocity selector 312 extends from the right side of the receiver to allow a user to adjust the velocity from which the projectiles are propelled out of themarker 300. Although thevelocity selector 312 is shown on the right side of themarker 300 in this example, it should be appreciated that it could be located in other positions on themarker 300. In this example, the user would rotate thevelocity selector 312 in one direction for greater velocity while rotating it in the opposite direction to reduce the velocity of projectiles. -
FIGS. 30 and 31 are left side views of the example marker shown in 28 with a portion of the body removed to show internal components. In this view, a portion of thevalve arrangement 322 is shown. Thevalve arrangement 322 is actuated (i.e., opened to vent gas) using alever 326 in this example. Thelever 326 pivots about apin 328 with afirst arm 332 and asecond arm 334. Thefirst arm 332 is movable toward and away from aninput valve 330. In this example, when theinput valve 330 is actuated by thefirst arm 332 of thelever 326, this causes thevalve arrangement 322 to vent a supply of compressed gas to propel a projectile. In this example, thelever 326 can be actuated in two ways, either mechanically (corresponding to the mechanical mode 306) or electronically (corresponding to the electronically-assisted mode 308). - When in the
mechanical mode 306, thelever 326 is actuated using acam surface 324 on thetrigger 304. Movement of the trigger 304 (i.e., when the user pulls the trigger) causes movement of thecam surface 324 to rotate (counter-clockwise in this example) thelever 326 such that thefirst arm 332 actuates the input valve 330 (pushes theinput valve 330 in this example). When in the electronically-assistedmode 308, arod 336 of alinear actuator 338, such as a solenoid, moves between a retracted position and an extended position. When the user pulls thetrigger 304, therod 336 moves to the extended position, which pushes thesecond arm 334 of thelever 326 and rotates (counter-clockwise in this example) thelever 326. This rotation of thelever 326 causes thefirst arm 332 to actuate the input valve 330 (pushes theinput valve 330 in this example) to vent gas and propel a projectile. In the embodiment shown, themode selector 301 allows a longer trigger stroke in the mechanical mode than in the electronically-assisted mode. In other words, themode selector 301 is configured to block the trigger from making as long of a stroke when the electronically-assisted mode is selected. This shorter trigger stroke prevents thecam surface 324 on the trigger from actuating thelever 326, which would result in a double shot—one shot from the electronically-assisted mode and the other from the mechanical mode. - In this view, a cross-section of the
mode selector 301 can be seen. As shown in this example, themode selector 301 includes anotch 314 that is dimensioned to receive a tip extending from thetrigger 304. In this example, which shows themode selector 301 in safe mode, thenotch 314 is not aligned with thetip 316 of thetrigger 304. This prevents thetrigger 304 from being sufficiently pulled to trip thelever 326, thereby preventing firing of themarker 300 in safe mode. -
FIGS. 32-34 show example views of themarker 300 fromFIG. 28 in themechanical firing mode 306. As discussed above, in this example, the mechanical firing mode allows the marker to fire projectiles without the aid of electronics. This allows themarker 300 to be fired even if the battery (or other energy source) is sufficiently drained to no longer power the electronics. InFIG. 34 , it can be seen that themode selector 301 has been rotated to themechanical mode 306, which aligns thetip 316 with thenotch 314 in themode selector 301, thereby allowing thetip 316 to be received therein when thetrigger 304 is pulled. An example trigger pull is shown inFIGS. 35-36 . As best seen inFIG. 36 , pulling thetrigger 304 registers thetip 316 in thenotch 314, which allows thecam surface 324 to move thefirst arm 332 of thelever 326 to actuate theinput valve 330, thereby venting gas from thevalve arrangement 322 to propel a projectile. -
FIGS. 37-39 show example views of themarker 300 in the electronic-aidedfiring mode 308. As discussed above, themode selector 301 is associated with a magnet 340 (best seen inFIGS. 42-43 ) that turns on the electronics when themode selector 301 is positioned in the electronically-assistedmode 308 due to one or more magnetic sensors, such as Hall effect sensors, associated with the electronics. Even though thetip 316 is not aligned with thenotch 314, pulling of thetrigger 304 provides movement of one ormore magnets 318 associated with thetrigger 304 such that one or moremagnetic sensors 320 can detect movement of thetrigger 304 and actuate electronics to actuate thevalve arrangement 322.FIGS. 40-41 show an example with the trigger pulled which causes the electronics to actuate thevalve arrangement 322. As discussed above, detection by themagnetic sensors 320 causes the electronics to actuate therod 336 of thelinear actuator 338, which rotates thelever 326. This causes movement of thefirst arm 332, which actuates theinput valve 330, thereby venting thevalve arrangement 322 to propel a projectile. As discussed above, the electronics could be programmed to alter various firing characteristics. -
FIGS. 45-46 show an embodiment of the velocity adjustment. In this example, thevelocity selector 312 includes a threaded portion that causes linear movement of thevelocity selector 312, which adjusts aspring 342 in thevalve arrangement 322 to increase or decrease the spring strength, thereby adjusting the regulated pressure going into thevalve arrangement 322. - Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to particular means, materials and embodiments, from the foregoing description, one skilled in the art can easily ascertain the essential characteristics of the invention and various changes and modifications may be made to adapt the various uses and characteristics without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (30)
1. A paintball marker comprising:
a receiver;
a barrel extending from the receiver;
a valve arrangement configured to selectively vent gas to propel a projectile out of the barrel;
a mode selector movable between a mechanical firing mode and an electronically-assisted firing mode;
a trigger movable between a neutral position and a firing position;
a mechanical launch assembly configured to actuate launching of a projectile without electronic assistance responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position;
an electronic circuit configured to actuate launching of a projectile responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position;
wherein the mechanical launch assembly actuates launching of a projectile when the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode; and
wherein the electronic circuit actuates launching of a projectile when the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode.
2. The paintball marker of claim 1 , wherein the mode selector rotates between the mechanical firing mode and the electronically-assisted firing mode.
3. The paintball marker of claim 1 , further comprising a magnet associated with and movable with the mode selector and a magnetic sensor configured to detect the magnet's position to determine whether the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode.
4. The paintball marker of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the mode selector extends from an external surface of the receiver.
5. The paintball marker of claim 1 , wherein the mode selector is further movable to a safety mode, wherein the mode selector prevents the trigger from moving to the firing position when in the safety mode.
6. The paintball marker of claim 1 , further comprising a gauge port defined on an external surface of the receiver that is dimensioned to receive a portion of an external pressure gauge configured to measure an internal pressure of the paintball marker and a plug that blocks fluid communication out of the gauge port.
7. A paintball marker comprising:
a receiver;
a barrel extending from the receiver;
a valve arrangement configured to selectively vent gas to propel a projectile out of the barrel;
a mode selector movable between a mechanical firing mode and an electronically-assisted firing mode;
a trigger movable between a neutral position and a firing position;
a mechanical linkage movable between a first position away from the valve arrangement and a second position that actuates the valve arrangement, wherein the mechanical linkage actuates the valve arrangement responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position when the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode; and
an electronic circuit configured to initiate actuation of the valve arrangement responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position when the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode.
8. The paintball marker of claim 7 , further comprising a lever moveable between a first position away from the valve arrangement and a second position that actuates the valve arrangement.
9. The paintball marker of claim 8 , wherein the valve arrangement includes an input valve with a valve stem, wherein the lever moves the valve stem in the second position.
10. The paintball marker of claim 8 , wherein the lever includes a first arm and a second arm.
11. The paintball marker of claim 10 , wherein the first arm is approximately perpendicular to the second arm.
12. The paintball marker of claim 10 , wherein the lever includes a pivotal connection with the receiver between the first arm and the second arm.
13. The paintball marker of claim 10 , wherein the first arm actuates the valve arrangement when the lever moves to the second position.
14. The paintball marker of claim 8 , wherein the trigger includes a cam surface configured to move the lever to the second position responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position when the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode.
15. The paintball marker of claim 8 , wherein the electronic circuit includes a linear actuator configured to move the lever to the second position to actuate the valve arrangement, wherein the electronic circuit is configured to energize the linear actuator responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position when the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode.
16. The paintball marker of claim 15 , wherein the linear actuator comprises a solenoid.
17. The paintball marker of claim 7 , wherein the mode selector includes a notch dimensioned to receive a tip extending from the trigger, wherein the notch is aligned with the tip when the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode such that the tip is in registry with the notch when the trigger moves to the firing position.
18. The paintball marker of claim 17 , wherein the mode selector is further movable to a safety mode, wherein the notch is not aligned with the tip when the mode selector is in the safety mode to block the trigger from moving to the firing position.
19. The paintball marker of claim 18 , further comprising a magnet associated with and movable with the mode selector and a magnetic sensor configured to detect the magnet's position to determine whether the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode.
20. A paintball marker comprising:
a receiver;
a barrel extending from the receiver;
a valve arrangement configured to selectively vent gas to propel a projectile out of the barrel;
a mode selector movable between a mechanical firing mode and an electronically-assisted firing mode;
a trigger movable between a neutral position and a firing position;
a lever including a first arm and a second arm, wherein the first arm is moveable between a first position away from the valve arrangement and a second position that actuates the valve arrangement, wherein the trigger includes a cam surface that acts upon the lever to move the first arm to the second position responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position when the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode; and
an electronic circuit including a linear actuator configured to move the lever to the second position, wherein the electronic circuit is configured to energize the linear actuator responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position when the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode.
21. The paintball marker of claim 20 , wherein the cam surface acts upon the first arm when the trigger moves to the firing position.
22. The paintball marker of claim 21 , wherein the linear actuator includes a rod that is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein the rod acts on the second arm in the extended position.
23. The paintball marker of claim 22 , wherein the mode selector includes a notch dimensioned to receive a tip extending from the trigger, wherein the notch is aligned with the tip when the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode such that the tip is in registry with the notch when the trigger moves to the firing position.
24. The paintball marker of claim 23 , wherein the mode selector is further movable to a safety mode, wherein the notch is not aligned with the tip when the mode selector is in the safety mode to block the trigger from moving to the firing position.
25. The paintball marker of claim 24 , further comprising a magnet associated with and movable with the mode selector and a magnetic sensor configured to detect the magnet's position to determine whether the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode.
26. A paintball marker comprising:
a receiver;
a barrel extending from the receiver;
a valve arrangement configured to selectively vent gas to propel a projectile out of the barrel;
a trigger movable between a neutral position and a firing position;
a trigger magnet movable with the trigger;
a first magnetic sensor configured to detect movement of the trigger;
a mode selector movable between a safe mode and an electronically-assisted firing mode;
a mode selector magnet movable with the mode selector;
a second magnetic sensor configured to detect the mode selector magnet's position to determine whether the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode;
an electronic circuit configured to actuate launching of a projectile responsive to detection by the first magnetic sensor that the trigger moved to the firing position when the second magnetic sensor detects that the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode; and
wherein the mode selector includes a portion that blocks the trigger from moving to the firing position when the mode selector is in the safe mode.
27. The paintball marker of claim 26 , wherein the mode selector is movable between a safe mode, a mechanical firing mode and an electronically-assisted firing mode, wherein a mechanical launch assembly actuates launching of a projectile when the mode selector is in the mechanical firing mode.
28. The paintball marker of claim 27 , wherein the mode selector includes a second portion that limits a trigger stroke of the trigger in the electronic firing mode to prevent actuation of the mechanical launch assembly when the mode selector is in the electronically-assisted firing mode.
29. The paintball marker of claim 27 , wherein the mode selector is configured to allow a first trigger stroke length when in the mechanical firing mode and a second trigger stroke length when in the electronically-assisted firing mode.
30. The paintball marker of claim 29 , wherein the first trigger stroke length is longer than the second trigger stroke length.
Priority Applications (1)
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US13/041,983 US20110226227A1 (en) | 2007-01-18 | 2011-03-07 | Paintball Marker with Mode Selector |
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US94214407P | 2007-06-05 | 2007-06-05 | |
US12/016,370 US7699047B2 (en) | 2007-01-18 | 2008-01-18 | Paintball marker with tool box |
US12/133,661 US7900622B2 (en) | 2007-01-18 | 2008-06-05 | Paintball marker with user selectable firing modes |
US39309710P | 2010-10-14 | 2010-10-14 | |
US13/041,983 US20110226227A1 (en) | 2007-01-18 | 2011-03-07 | Paintball Marker with Mode Selector |
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US12/133,661 Continuation-In-Part US7900622B2 (en) | 2007-01-18 | 2008-06-05 | Paintball marker with user selectable firing modes |
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US20160178303A1 (en) * | 2014-12-19 | 2016-06-23 | Real Action Paintball, Inc. | Method and apparatus for self-resetting trigger mechanism |
EP3367041A1 (en) * | 2017-02-28 | 2018-08-29 | Magna Composites, S.L. | Optical trigger system for a weapon |
US10260829B1 (en) * | 2016-11-28 | 2019-04-16 | Robert Wright | Shotgun conversion method and apparatus |
US10731934B2 (en) * | 2018-03-29 | 2020-08-04 | Tingwu Song | Firearm receiver and a method of manufacturing it |
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US9032656B2 (en) * | 2012-01-16 | 2015-05-19 | Trackingpoint, Inc. | Trigger assembly and method of optical detection of a trigger assembly state |
US20130180147A1 (en) * | 2012-01-16 | 2013-07-18 | Trackingpoint, Inc. | Trigger Assembly and Method of Optical Detection of a Trigger Assembly State |
US9395146B2 (en) * | 2013-03-13 | 2016-07-19 | Tippmann Sports, Llc | Projectile launcher with trigger assist |
US20150007804A1 (en) * | 2013-03-13 | 2015-01-08 | Tippmann Sports, Llc | Projectile launcher with trigger assist |
US9885537B2 (en) * | 2013-03-13 | 2018-02-06 | Tippmann Sports, Llc | Projectile launcher with trigger assist |
US20160305735A1 (en) * | 2013-03-13 | 2016-10-20 | Tippmann Sports, Llc | Projectile launcher with trigger assist |
US20150308784A1 (en) * | 2014-03-06 | 2015-10-29 | Chao-Hsiung Cho | Air gun firing control device |
US9372047B2 (en) * | 2014-03-06 | 2016-06-21 | Chao-Hsiung Cho | Air gun firing control device |
US20150330739A1 (en) * | 2014-05-15 | 2015-11-19 | Ho-Sheng Wei | Toy gun with built-in hand-tool assembly |
US9387575B2 (en) * | 2014-05-15 | 2016-07-12 | Ho-Sheng Wei | Toy gun with built-in hand-tool assembly |
US20160178303A1 (en) * | 2014-12-19 | 2016-06-23 | Real Action Paintball, Inc. | Method and apparatus for self-resetting trigger mechanism |
US9541341B2 (en) * | 2014-12-19 | 2017-01-10 | Real Action Paintball (Rap4), Inc. | Method and apparatus for self-resetting trigger mechanism |
US20160047620A1 (en) * | 2015-05-04 | 2016-02-18 | Jui-Fu Tseng | Automatic air rifle |
US10260829B1 (en) * | 2016-11-28 | 2019-04-16 | Robert Wright | Shotgun conversion method and apparatus |
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US10731934B2 (en) * | 2018-03-29 | 2020-08-04 | Tingwu Song | Firearm receiver and a method of manufacturing it |
US10914546B1 (en) * | 2019-11-15 | 2021-02-09 | Arlos Franklin Casto, Jr. | Pneumatic ball launcher for facilitating launching of a ball |
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