ADJUSTABLE GAS REGULATING SYSTEMS AND APPARATUSES

FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to gas regulation for guns, and more particularly to an adjustable gas regulating system and apparatus for guns.

BACKGROUND

Gas-operated firearms rely on the pressure generated by the expanding gas from the fired round to cycle the action of the firearm. In these systems, gas is diverted from the barrel to a gas block that regulates the flow of gas into the action. Gas blocks with fixed settings are optimized for a specific type of ammunition and are not adjustable by the user to account for different types of ammunition, different barrel lengths, or muzzle devices. Adjustable gas blocks allow the user to adjust the amount of gas that enters the gas system.

SUMMARY

The subject matter of the present application has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the shortcomings of gas regulating systems and apparatuses for firearms that have not yet been fully solved by currently available techniques. Accordingly, the subject matter of the present application has been developed to provide gas regulating systems and apparatuses for firearms that overcome at least some of the above-discussed shortcomings of prior art techniques.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples, which may or may not be claimed, of the subject matter, disclosed herein.

Examples of the present disclosure include a gas regulating system. The gas regulating system includes a gas block. The gas block includes a bore configured to receive a barrel of a gun. The gas block includes a channel substantially parallel to the bore. The channel includes an opening. The gas block includes a passage substantially perpendicular to the bore. The passage includes a first opening and a second opening. The second opening is configured to allow gas to travel from the passage toward the channel. The system includes a plurality of inserts. Each insert is configured to be removably received by the first passage non-simultaneously. Each insert includes a first insert opening configured to allow gas to travel from the bore into the insert. Each insert includes a second insert opening configured to allow gas to travel out of the insert and toward the channel while the insert is received by the first passage. At least two second insert openings of the plurality of inserts are of different sizes.

Examples of the present disclosure include a gas regulating system. The gas regulating system includes a gun. The gun includes a receiver and a barrel. The barrel includes a barrel opening. The system includes a gas block. The gas block includes a bore removably attached to the barrel. The gas block includes a channel substantially parallel to the bore. The channel is configured to receive a first end of an elongate member. The elongate member includes a second end opposite the first end. The second end is closer to the receiver than the first end is to the receiver. The gas block includes a passage substantially perpendicular to the bore. The passage includes a first opening and a second opening. The second opening is substantially aligned with the second barrel opening and configured to allow gas to travel from the passage and toward the channel. The system includes a plurality of inserts. Each insert is configured to be removably received by the passage non-simultaneously. Each insert includes a first insert opening configured to allow gas to travel from the bore into the insert. Each insert includes a second insert opening configured to allow gas to travel out of the insert and toward the channel while the insert is received by the first passage. At least two second insert openings of the plurality of inserts are of different sizes.

Examples of the present disclosure include a gas regulating apparatus. The gas regulating apparatus includes a bore configured to receive a barrel of a gun. The gas regulating apparatus includes a channel substantially parallel to the bore. The channel includes an opening. The gas regulating apparatus includes a passage substantially perpendicular to the bore. The first passage includes a first opening and a second opening. The second opening is configured to allow gas to travel from the first passage and toward the channel. The gas regulating apparatus includes a second passage touching and substantially perpendicular to the first passage. The second passage is configured to removably receive a screw. The first passage is configured to receive a plurality of inserts non-simultaneously. Each of the plurality of inserts includes a first insert opening configured to allow gas to travel from the bore into the insert. Each of the plurality of inserts includes a second insert opening configured to allow gas to travel out of the insert and toward the first channel while the insert is received by the first passage. At least two second insert openings of the plurality of inserts are of different sizes.

The described features, structures, advantages, and/or characteristics of the subject matter of the present disclosure may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples and/or implementations. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to impart a thorough understanding of examples of the subject matter of the present disclosure. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the subject matter of the present disclosure may be practiced without one or more of the specific features, details, components, materials, and/or methods of a particular example or implementation. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain examples and/or implementations that may not be present in all examples or implementations. Further, in some instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The features and advantages of the subject matter of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the subject matter as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the advantages of the subject matter may be more readily understood, a more particular description of the subject matter briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific examples that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, depict only certain examples of the subject matter and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the subject matter will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a gas regulating system, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an assembled gas regulating system according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2B is a perspective, exploded view of a gas regulating system, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3A is a perspective, exploded view of a gas regulating system including a cutout of a gas regulating apparatus, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3B is a perspective, exploded view of a gas regulating system shown without a firearm, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3C is an alternative perspective, exploded view of a gas regulating system shown without a firearm, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3D is a transparent perspective view of a gas regulating system, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3E is a perspective view of an assembled gas regulating system, shown without a firearm, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3F is an underside view of a gas regulating system;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an insert of a gas regulating system, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4B is an underside view of an insert of a gas regulating system, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5A is a side view of a gas regulating system, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5B is a sectional view of the gas regulating system of FIG. 5A, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5C is another sectional view of the gas regulating system of FIGS. 5A-B, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a second passage screw, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a bore screw, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference throughout this specification to “one example,” “an example,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least one example of the present disclosure. Appearances of the phrases “in one example,” “in an example,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same example. Similarly, the use of the term “implementation” means an implementation having a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with one or more examples of the present disclosure, however, absent an express correlation to indicate otherwise, an implementation may be associated with one or more examples.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 2 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 2, which encompasses example 1, above, the channel is configured to receive a first end of an elongate member. The elongate includes a second end opposite the first end. The second end is positioned closer relative to a receiver of the gun than the first end is positioned relative to the receiver of the gun.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 3 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 3, which encompasses example 1 or 2, above, the elongate member is configured to allow gas to flow from the channel, into the elongate member, through the elongate member, and into the receiver. The second end is configured to be received by the receiver.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 4 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 4, which encompasses any one of examples 1-3, above, the barrel includes an opening. The first opening of the first passage is substantially aligned with the barrel opening and configured to allow gas to travel between the first passage and the channel.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 5 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 5, which encompasses any one of examples 1-4, above, each of the plurality of inserts includes a surface configured to be visible from the exterior of the gas block when the insert is received by the first passage. The surface includes a number of visual indicators indicating a size of the second insert opening.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 6 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 6, which encompasses any one of examples 1-5, above, the system includes at least one visual indicator of the number of visual indicators. The at least one visual indicator of the number of visual indicators is a non-numeric indicator.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 7 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 7, which encompasses any one of examples 1-6, above, the passage is a first passage. The system includes a second passage touching and substantially perpendicular to the first passage. The system includes a screw configured to be removably received by the second passage. The screw includes an end extending into the first passage and contacting an insert of the plurality of inserts while the insert is received by the first passage and the screw is received by the second passage.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 8 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 8, which encompasses any one of examples 1-7, above, the insert further includes an indentation. The end of the screw contacts the insert at the indentation to create a friction fit and/or a pressurized fit between the screw, insert, and first passage.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 9 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 9, which encompasses any one of examples 1-8, above, in a direction substantially perpendicular to a center line of the bore and to a center line of the first passage, the first passage is positioned below the channel. The second passage is positioned below the first passage. The bore is positioned below the second passage.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 10 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 10, which encompasses any one of examples 1-9, above, the gas block includes an exterior surface. The exterior surface includes a mark. A surface of at least one insert of the plurality of inserts includes a corresponding mark. The at least one insert is configured such that the mark and the corresponding mark indicate that the second insert opening of the at least one insert is substantially aligned with the second opening of the passage when the mark and the corresponding mark are aligned.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 11 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 11, which encompasses any one of examples 1-10, above, each insert of the plurality of inserts includes a head and a body. The head has a width greater than a a width of the body. The second insert opening includes an opening of the body.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 12 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 12, which encompasses any one of examples 1-11, above, the second insert opening of at least one insert of the plurality of inserts has a size that is different from a size of the second opening of the passage.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 13 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 13, which encompasses any one of examples 1-12, above, the system includes an additional channel connecting the second opening of the passage and the opening of the channel.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 14 of the subject matter disclosed herein. According to example 14, a gas regulating system includes a gas block. The gas block includes a bore configured to receive a barrel of a gun. The gas block includes a channel substantially parallel to the bore. The channel includes an opening. The gas block includes a passage substantially perpendicular to the bore. The passage includes a first opening and a second opening. The second opening is configured to allow gas to travel from the passage toward the channel. The system includes a plurality of inserts. Each insert is configured to be removably received by the first passage non-simultaneously. Each insert includes a first insert opening configured to allow gas to travel from the bore into the insert. Each insert includes a second insert opening configured to allow gas to travel out of the insert and toward the channel while the insert is received by the first passage. At least two second insert openings of the plurality of inserts are of different sizes.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 15 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 15, which encompasses example 14 above, the elongate member is configured to allow gas to flow from the channel, into the elongate member, through the elongate member, and into the receiver. The second end is configured to be received by the receiver.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 16 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 16, which encompasses any of examples 14-15 above, each of the plurality of inserts includes a surface configured to be visible from the exterior of the gas block when the insert is received by the first passage. The surface includes a number of visual indicators indicating the size of the second insert opening.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 17 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 17, which encompasses an of examples 14-16 above, the system includes at least one visual indicator of the number of visual indicators, the at least one visual indicator being a non-numeric indicator.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 18 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 18, which encompasses any of examples 14-17 above, the passage is a first passage. The system includes a second passage touching and substantially perpendicular to the first passage. The system includes a screw configured to be removably received by the second passage. The screw includes an end extending into the first passage and contacting an insert of the plurality of inserts while the insert is received by the first passage and the screw is received by the second passage.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 19 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. According to example 19, which encompasses any of examples 14-18 above, the gas block includes a number of protrusions. The barrel includes at least one component shaped to receive the number of protrusions, the at least one component selected from the group consisting of a number of sockets, a number of openings, and a combination thereof.

The following portion of this paragraph delineates example 20 of the subject matter, disclosed herein. A gas regulating apparatus includes a bore configured to receive a barrel of a gun. The gas regulating apparatus includes a channel substantially parallel to the bore. The channel includes an opening. The gas regulating apparatus includes a passage substantially perpendicular to the bore. The first passage includes a first opening and a second opening. The second opening is configured to allow gas to travel from the first passage and toward the channel. The gas regulating apparatus includes a second passage touching and substantially perpendicular to the first passage. The second passage is configured to removably receive a screw. The first passage is configured to receive a plurality of inserts non-simultaneously. Each of the plurality of inserts includes a first insert opening configured to allow gas to travel from the bore into the insert. Each of the plurality of inserts includes a second insert opening configured to allow gas to travel out of the insert and toward the first channel while the insert is received by the first passage. At least two second insert openings of the plurality of inserts are of a different size.

FIG. 1 is a side view of a gas regulating system 100, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 includes a gun 130 and a gas block 102. The gas block 102 may be referred to herein as a “gas block apparatus.” The system 100 also includes a plurality of inserts (e.g., inserts 216 of FIGS. 4A-B).

As described herein, the gun 130 includes any gas-operated weapon, such as a firearm. As shown in FIG. 1, the gun 130 includes, for example, a direct impingement system. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited and also include gas piston systems. The gun 130 includes a receiver 132 and a barrel 106. The gas block 102 is a gas regulating apparatus that regulates how much gas fired from the cartridge of the gun 130 flows back to the receiver 132.

In some examples, when the gun 130 is discharged, expanding gases created by the ignition of gunpowder propel the bullet out of the chamber and through the barrel 106. While the gas block 102 is attached to the barrel 106, a portion of these gases is diverted from the barrel 106 and into the gas block 102. As described herein, the gas block 102 includes a number of channels through which the gas flows. As referred to herein, “channel” includes any at least partially hollow portion within the gas block 102 through which gas may travel.

The gas flows out of the gas block 102 and into an elongate member 142 of the gun 130. In direct impingement systems, the elongate member 142 is a gas tube, and the gas travels to the receiver 132 of the gun 130, where it cycles the action of the gun 130. In some examples, the spent casing is ejected, and a new round is loaded. In gas piston systems, the gas tube 142 is replaced with a piston, and the pressure from gas flowing out of the gas block 102 causes the piston to move backwards and cycle the action.

Adjustable gas blocks, or tunable gas blocks such as the gas block 102 described herein, allow the user to further regulate or fine-tune the gas flow, which can improve the reliability and accuracy of the gun 130. Examples of the present disclosure include gas blocks 102 and inserts 216 that help to regulate gas flow more precisely and efficiently. Examples of the present disclosure allow a user to adjust gas flow by exchanging the insert 216 for another insert of a plurality of inserts 216. Examples of the present disclosure also help to reduce the potential for carbon loading, turbulent flow, and erosion.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an assembled gas regulating system 100 according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. FIG. 2B is a perspective, exploded view of the gas regulating system 100, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. Although a complete view of a gun 130 is not shown in FIGS. 2A-B, the gas regulating system 100 includes a gun 130, the barrel 106 of which is shown in FIGS. 2A-B. The system 100 also includes a gas block 102 and at least one insert 216. The gas block 102 includes a first end 201 and a second end 203. The second end 203 is positioned closer relative to the receiver 132 of the gun 130 than the first end 201 is positioned relative to the receiver 132, and the first end 201 is positioned closer relative to, for example, the muzzle 131 of the gun 130 than the second end 203 is relative to the muzzle 131.

The gas block 102 is configured to removably attach to and/or to receive the barrel 106. For example, the gas block 102 includes a bore 304 as shown in FIGS. 3A-E. The bore 304 receives the barrel 106. In some examples, the bore 304 is substantially cylindrical in shape. The bore 304 extends throughout the length of the gas block 102 such that the barrel 106 may extend completely through the gas block 102. As used herein, the term “bore” includes an opening extending through the gas block 102. The bore 304 is formed in the gas block 102 through any suitable method, and examples of the present disclosure are not limited to the bore 304 being formed by revolving a tool.

The gas block 102 includes a channel 208 that is substantially parallel to the barrel 106 when the barrel 106 is attached to the gas block 102. The channel 208 is configured to receive a first end 244 of the elongate member 142 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A-B. For example, the elongate member 142 is a gas tube of the gun 130, and the gun 130 is a direct impingement gas firearm. The gas travels into the channel 208 and into the elongate member 142. The elongate member 142 includes a second end (e.g., end 143 shown in FIG. 1) that, in some examples, is configured to be received by the receiver 132 of the gun 130. As such, when the gun 130 is discharged, gas flows from the barrel 106 into the gas block 102. As will be described herein, the gas flows out of the bore 304, into the insert 316 within a first passage 210, into the channel 208 via an opening in the channel 208 (e.g., opening 382 of FIG. 3A), into the elongate member 142, through the elongate member 142, and into the receiver 132. Although not shown herein, in some examples, the elongate member 142 is a hollow tube that includes an opening substantially aligned with the opening 382 of the channel 208. Thus, the gas flows into the opening 382 of the channel 208 and into the opening of the elongate member 142.

In some examples, the gun 130 is a gas piston system, and the elongate member 142 is a “piston” or “piston rod” of a piston-driven gun. In such examples, the gas does not travel through the piston. Rather, gas pressure in the channel 208 pushes the piston toward the rear of the gun 130 (i.e., in the direction d3 parallel to the channel 208), which strikes a lug on a top of a bolt to cycle the action of the gun 130.

Before flowing into the channel 208, the gas first flows through the first passage 210. As used herein, the term “passage” includes any way, tunnel, partial hole, or indentation of the gas block 102 other than the bore 304 that is connected to an exterior 376 of the system 100 and configured to receive another component of the system 100. For example, the first passage 210 is configured to receive an insert 216. Although the passages 210 and 334 are illustrated as being substantially circular in shape, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. A “passage” may be of any shape. As defined herein, a “passage” includes portions of the gas block 102 that do not extend completely through the gas block 102. For example, neither the first passage 210 nor the second passage 334 extends completely through the gas block 102.

In some examples, the first passage 210 is substantially perpendicular to the barrel 106 and/or to the bore 304 when the barrel 106 is received by the gas block 102. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. The first passage 210 is positioned at any angle relative to the bore 304 that allows gas to travel from the bore 304 into the second passage 210. As shown in FIGS. 3A-E, the first passage 210 includes at least one opening 312 configured to allow gas to travel from the first passage 210 into the channel 208. In some examples, the gas flows transversely through the first passage in a direction d1 substantially perpendicular to the center line 211 of the first passage 210.

The system 200 includes an insert 216 of a plurality of inserts (e.g., inserts 216a, . . . , 216n of FIG. 4A). As used herein, “insert 216” refers to an individual insert 216 and/or to a plurality of inserts 216a, . . . , 216n collectively. Each insert 216 is configured to be removably received by the first passage 210 non-simultaneously. As such, only one insert 216 is in use in the gas block 102 at a given time. As shown in FIGS. 3A-E and 4A-B, each insert 216 includes a first insert opening 438 configured to allow gas to travel from the bore 304 into the insert 216. Additionally, each insert 216 includes a second insert opening 220 configured to allow gas to travel out of the insert 216 and toward and into the channel 208. For example, the gas travels out of the insert 216 and through the channel opening 382 while the insert 216 is received by the first passage 210, as shown in FIG. 2A. As shown in and described in connection with FIG. 4A, at least two second insert openings 220a, . . . , 220n (which may be referred to herein individually or collectively as “220”) of the plurality of inserts 216 are of a different size. In some examples, each second insert opening 220 is of a different size. The different sizes of the second insert openings 220 allow for customization of gas flow by replacing the insert 216 with another insert having a second insert opening 220 of a different size. In some examples, the width (e.g., w1 or w2 of FIG. 4A) or diameter of the second insert opening 220 is approximately equivalent to or less than the width or diameter of the opening 586 in the barrel 106 from which gas flows out of the barrel 106. In some examples, each of the second insert openings 220 has a width or diameter of no less than 0.05 inches and no greater than 0.125 inches. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited.

In some examples, the plurality of inserts 216 includes three or more inserts, and at least two inserts 216 have second insert openings 220 of different sizes. For example, a first insert 216a has an insert opening 220a with a width w1, and a second insert 216n has an insert opening 220n with a width w2.

As illustrated and described in connection with FIG. 3D, the system 100 includes a second passage screw 236 configured to secure the insert 216 within the gas block 102. For example, the second passage screw 236 is received by a second passage 334 of the gas block 102 at the first end 201 of the gas block 102.

The system 100 includes a number of barrel attachment screws 248. For example, each of the screws 248 is received by an opening and/or socket of the gas block 102 not shown in FIG. 2B. In some examples, each of the barrel attachment screws 248 is also received by an opening and/or socket (e.g., sockets 378 shown on an underside of the barrel 106 in FIG. 3F) of the barrel 106 not shown in FIG. 2B. As shown in FIG. 3F, the sockets 378 of the barrel 106 are substantially aligned with openings 354 of the gas block 102 such that the barrel attachment screws 248 are received by both the sockets 378 of the barrel 106 and the opening of the gas block 102.

FIG. 3A is a perspective, exploded view of the gas regulating system 100 including an insert 216 and a cutout of the gas block 102 showing an interior of the first passage 210, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3A, the gas block 102 includes a bore 304, a first passage 210, and a channel 208. The gas regulating system 100 also includes a plurality of inserts 216, one of which is shown in FIG. 3A.

The bore 304 is configured to attach to a barrel of a gun. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2A-B and FIG. 3D, the gas block 102 receives the barrel 106 through the bore 304. In some examples, the barrel 106 includes a barrel opening, such as the opening 586 shown in FIG. 5B. The barrel opening 586 diverts a portion of the gases out of the barrel 106 and up into the gas block 102.

In some examples, the first opening 238 of the first passage 210 is substantially aligned with the barrel opening 586 such that the gas flows from the barrel 106 into the first passage 210 while the barrel 106 is received by the bore 304. In some examples, the gas flows from the barrel 106, through a first bore opening 388, through a channel 314 connecting the first bore opening 388 and the first first-passage opening 338, through the first first-passage opening 338, through the first insert opening 438, through the second insert opening 220, through the second first-passage opening 312, and into the elongate member 142 within the channel 308 via the channel opening 382. In other words, a portion of the gas flows in a direction d1 that is substantially perpendicular to the barrel 106, bore 304, and channel 308. In some examples, once the gas enters the channel 308, the gas also enters the elongate member 142 and flows in a direction d3 towards the receiver 132.

The first passage 210 is substantially perpendicular to the bore 304. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the first passage 210 extends in a direction d2 that is substantially perpendicular to a direction d3 in which the bore 304, the barrel 106, and/or the channel 208 extends. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. The first passage 210 is positioned at any angle relative to the bore 304 such that the first passage 210 receives gas from the bore 304 and the gas travels from the first passage 210 and into the channel 208.

In some examples, the gas regulating system 300 includes an additional channel 314 within the gas block 102. The additional channel 314 connects the bore 304 and the first first-passage opening 338. As such, gas flows form the bore 304, through the additional channel 314, and into the first passage 210. In some examples, the additional channel 314 is substantially perpendicular to both the bore 304 and the first passage 210. For example, the channel 314 extends in a direction d1.

The first passage 210 includes at least a first opening 338 and a second opening 312. The first opening 338 allows gas to flow out of the barrel 106 (e.g., via the opening 586) and into the first passage 210. In some examples, the openings 338 and 312 of the first passage 210 are substantially circular. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. Examples of the present disclosure include openings 338 and 312 of any suitable to allow gas to flow into and out of the first passage 210. For example, the openings 312 and/or 338 include at least one of the following shapes: asymmetrical shape, square, triangle, ellipse, and/or longitudinal slits.

The second opening 312 is configured to allow gas to travel from the first passage 210 to the gas bock channel 208. For example, the second opening 312 is substantially aligned with an opening 382 of the channel 208. In another example, the second opening 312 is connected to the channel 208 via another channel 382. At least a portion of the opening 382 is coplanar with at least a portion of the first passage 210 in a plane parallel to the directions d1 and d3. As such, gas is allowed to flow from the first passage 210 into the channel 208 via the opening 382.

The channel 208 is substantially parallel to the bore 304. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the channel 208 extends in the same direction d3 as the bore 304. As shown in FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, the channel 208 is configured to receive a first end of the elongate member 142. As shown in FIG. 1, a second end 143 of the elongate member 142 is received by a receiver 132 of the gun 130. In some examples, the gas block 102 includes additional passages 222 on either side of the channel 208. The additional passages 222 connect the channel 208 to an exterior 376 of the gas block 102. As shown in FIG. 2B, the system 100 includes two additional bores 222, and each additional passage 222 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the channel 208. For example, each additional bore 222 extends in a direction parallel to the direction d2 of FIG. 3A, or in a direction parallel to the first passage 210. The system 100 includes an additional passage 222 on each side of the channel 208. Each additional bore 222 is configured to receive a pin 224 to secure the elongate member 142 within the channel 208. For example, the elongate member 142 includes an opening 284 through which a pin 224 is received. In some examples, the pin 224 is a roll pin.

In some examples, the shape of the channel 208 matches a shape of the elongate member 142 that the channel 208 receives. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the channel 208 is substantially cylindrical in shape. The channel 208 has a width and/or diameter that is slightly larger than a width and/or diameter of the gas tube 142 such that the channel 208 receives the gas tube 142.

The system 100 includes a plurality of inserts 216. Each insert 216 is configured to be removably received by the first passage 210 non-simultaneously. The first passage 210 is shaped to only receive one insert 216 at a time. FIG. 4A shows the plurality of inserts 216a, . . . , 216n, which may be referred to herein either individually or collectively as “216.” Although FIG. 4A shows only two inserts 216a and 216n, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. The plurality of inserts 216 includes any quantity of inserts 216.

As shown in FIG. 4B, each insert 216 includes a first insert opening 438 configured to allow gas to travel from the bore 304 into the insert 216. Although not shown, each insert 216 includes at least one channel within the insert 216 and/or a hollow portion such that gas can flow through the insert 216. For example, each insert 216 includes a channel extending in a direction d1 and connecting the first insert opening 438 and a second insert opening 220. In such examples, gas flows transversely through the insert 216.

The second insert opening 220 is configured to allow gas to travel out of the insert 316 and into the channel 208 through the opening 382 of the channel 208 while the insert 216 is received by the first passage 210. For example, after gas flows from the bore 304 into the insert 316 via the first insert opening 438, the gas then flows out of the insert 216 via the second insert opening 220 and out of the first passage 210 via, for example, the opening 312 of the first passage 210 and/or a channel connecting the first passage 210 and the channel 208.

The second insert opening 220 of each of the plurality of inserts 216 is of a different size. As used referenced herein, openings of “different sizes” includes second insert openings 220 that each have at least one of the following that is unique from that of the other second insert openings 220: surface area, perimeter, width, length, diameter, radius, or any combination thereof. For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, a first insert 216a includes an opening 220a of a width w1, and a second insert 216n includes a larger opening 220b with a greater width w2. In some examples, the openings 220 are substantially circular and/or elliptic in shape, and each of the second insert openings 220 has a unique radius, diameter, surface area, and/or circumference.

The different sizes of the second insert openings 220 allow for adjustment in the flow rate of the gas. For example, the first insert 216a is in use in the gas block 102 and inserted into the first passage 210 as shown in FIG. 3E when the user determines that the flow of gas within the gas block 102 needs to be adjusted. In some examples, the user checks the size of the second insert opening 220a without removing the insert 216a from the first passage 210 by looking at an external surface (e.g., surface 474 shown in FIG. 4A) of the insert 216a. For example, the external surface 474a of the insert 216a shows a single size indicator 468, indicating a smaller size of the second insert opening 220a.

To increase the flow rate of air into the channel 208, the user selects a different insert a 216n. For example, the user selects an insert 216n with a larger second insert opening 220n by checking the external surface 474n of the insert 216n. The external surface 474n shows a quantity of size indicators 468n that is greater than the quantity of size indicators 468a shown on the first insert 216a. For example, the surface 474n shows two size indicators 468n, indicating that the size of the second insert opening 220n of the second insert 216n is greater than the size of the second insert opening 220a of the first insert 216a.

The user exchanges the first insert 216a for the second insert 216n of the larger second opening 220b size. For example, the user removes the screw 336 from the second passage 334 at least partially such that the screw 336 is no longer obstructing the first passage 210 and/or touching the first insert 216a. As shown in FIG. 3A, the insert 316 includes a head 326 with a tool mating component 318 that is configured to mate with an end of a tool for removal from and insertion into the first passage 210. For example, the tool mating component 318 is threaded and configured to be threaded on a tool for insertion, alignment, and/or removal. The tool is used to extract the first insert 216a from the first passage 210. The user inserts the second insert 216n into the first passage 210 by, for example, rotating the second insert 216n until the insert mark 466n aligns with the corresponding gas block mark 264. The second passage screw 236 is then re-inserted to contact a portion of the second insert 216n, further securing the second insert 216n within the first passage 210. For example, the end 339 of the screw 336 contacts an indentation 356 in the second insert 216n. In some examples, the indentation 356 is substantially flat. The pressure between the end 339 of the screw 236 and the insert 216 reduces the chance of the insert 216 rotating within the first passage 210 and maintains alignment of the second insert opening 220 with openings in the first passage 210 and the channel 208. The second passage screw 336 secures the insert 220 without impinging airflow the insert 220.

In another example, the gas flow is slowed by replacing the first insert 216a with another insert 216 having a second insert opening 220 that is smaller than the second insert opening 220a of the first insert 216a. As such, the gas flow is slowed without the need of and more precisely than impinging the existing second insert opening 220a of the first insert 216a. The gas flow is also adjusted without the need to impinge the opening 382 of the channel 208.

In some examples, the system 300 includes a second additional channel 389 connecting the opening 382 of the channel 208 and the second opening 312 of the first passage 210. The second additional channel 389 also connects the opening 382 of the channel 208 and the second insert opening 220. In some example, the second additional channel 388 is substantially perpendicular to both the channel 208 and the first passage 210. The second additional channel 389 extends in a direction d1 that is perpendicular to a direction d2 of the first passage 210 and a direction d3 of the channel 208.

FIG. 3B is a perspective, exploded view of a gas regulating system 100 shown without a firearm (i.e., without the gun 130), according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3B, the gas block 302 includes an opening 352. The opening 352 extends from the bore 304 to an exterior 376 of the gas block 102. In some examples, the opening 352 is configured to help secure the gas block 102 to a gun barrel 106. For example, the opening 352 is shaped to receive a component of a barrel 106, such as a protrusion in the barrel 106. Although FIG. 3B shows a single opening 352, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. In some examples, the gas block 102 includes two or more openings 352.

FIG. 3C is an alternative perspective, exploded view of a gas regulating system 100 shown without a firearm (i.e., without the gun 130), according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3C, the gas regulating system 100 includes a second passage 334. In some examples, the second passage 334 extends in a direction d3 substantially parallel to a direction d3 of the channel 208 and/or to the bore 304. The direction d3 of the second passage 334 is, in some examples, substantially perpendicular to the direction d2 of the first passage 210. The second passage 334 is substantially aligned with the first passage 210 in a direction d1 perpendicular to the second passage 334 direction d3 and the first passage 210 direction d2, and the second passage 334 connects to the first passage 210.

The gas regulating system 100 includes a second passage screw 236 configured to be removably received by the second passage 334. The end 339 of the second passage screw 236 extends into the first passage 210 and contacts the insert 216. For example, the end 339 is shaped to contact the insert 216 at the indentation 356 and thus fit between the insert 216 and the wall of the first passage 210.

FIG. 3D is a transparent, perspective view of an assembled gas regulating system 100, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 3D, the second passage 334 touches the first passage 210. The second passage 334 is connected to the first passage 210. FIG. 3D illustrates the screw 332 removably received by the second passage 334. The screw 332 contacts the insert 316 in the first passage 210 and thus secures the insert 316 within the gas regulating apparatus 102. As shown in FIG. 3C, the screw 332 includes an end 338 that extends into the first passage 210 and contacts the insert 416. For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the insert 416 includes an indentation 456. The screw end 339 contacts the insert 416 at the indentation 456 to create a friction fit and/or pressurized fit between the screw 332, insert 316, and first passage 210. The screw end 338 is configured so as not to prevent air from flowing through the insert 216 and out of the second insert opening 220.

As shown in FIG. 3D, in a direction d1 substantially perpendicular to both a direction d3 of the bore 304 and a direction d2 of the first passage 320, the first passage 320 is positioned below the channel 208. The second passage 334 is positioned below the first passage. The bore 304 is positioned below the second passage 334. As such, in a direction d1, gas flows out of the bore 304, passes the second passage 334, flows approximately transversely through the first passage 210, and into the channel 208. The gas then flows through the channel 208 and the elongate member 142 in a direction d3 towards the receiver 132.

As shown in FIG. 3D, the gas block 102 receives the barrel 106. The gas block 102 includes a number of protrusions 354 into the bore 304. For example, as shown in FIG. 3D, the gas block 102 includes two substantially cylindrical protrusions 354 into the bore 304. In some examples, the barrel 106 includes a number of sockets. For example, FIG. 3F illustrates a number of sockets 378 in the barrel 106. The sockets 378 are shaped to receive the protrusions 354.

FIG. 3E is a perspective view of an assembled gas regulating system 100, shown without a firearm (i.e., without the gun 130), according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. Although the gas block 102 is shown in FIG. 3E unattached to the gun 130, those of skill in the art will appreciate that the example shown in FIG. 3E can be attached to the barrel 106 of the gun 130.

FIG. 3F is an underside view of a gas regulating system 100. FIG. 3F shows the gas block 102 receiving the barrel 106 but not yet secured to the barrel 106. As shown in FIG. 3F, the barrel 106 includes a number of sockets 378. In FIG. 3F, the sockets 378 are substantially cylindrical indentations into the barrel 106. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited, and the sockets 378, in some examples, are shaped differently.

The underside of the gas block 102 includes a number of openings 354. The openings 354 are shaped substantially similarly to the sockets 378 of the barrel 106. Additionally, the distance 301 between each of the openings 354 is equivalent to the distance 303 between each of the sockets 378. To position the gas block 102 on the barrel 106, the gas block 102 is moved in a direction d3 along the barrel 106 and towards the sockets 378 until the sockets 378 and the openings 354 are aligned. Alignment of the sockets 378 and the openings 354 indicates optimal positioning of the gas block 102 on the barrel 106. Alignment of the sockets 378 and the openings 354 indicates, for example, that the channel 208 is in a proper position to receive the first end 244 of the tube 142 while the second end 143 of the tube 142 is connected to the receiver 132.

Once the openings 354 and the sockets 378 are aligned, the barrel attachment screws 248 are inserted through the openings 354 and received by the sockets 378. As such, the barrel attachment screws 248 secure the gas block 102 to the barrel 106 with proper alignment.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a plurality of inserts 216 of a gas regulating system 100 according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 4A, each of the plurality of inserts 216 Although FIG. 4A shows two inserts 216a, 216n, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. In some examples, the plurality of inserts 216 includes more than two inserts 216.

Each of the inserts 416 includes a surface 374 configured to be visible from the exterior 376 of the gas block 102 when the insert 216 is received by the first passage 210, as shown in FIG. 3E. As shown in FIG. 3E, only the external surface 374 of the insert 216 is visible from the exterior 376 of the gas block 102 when the insert 216 is received by the first passage 210. As such, in some examples, the size of the second insert opening 220 is not immediately apparent from the exterior 376 of the gas block 102 when the insert 216 is inserted into the first passage 210. In some examples, the insert 216 is secured within the first passage 210 and is not easily removable without the use of a tool interfacing with a component 318 of the insert 216, for example. As such, removing the insert 216 to check the size of the second insert opening 220 is cumbersome. Additionally, when the insert 216 is within the bore 210, proper alignment of the second insert opening 220 and the second second-bore opening 312 and/or the first insert opening 438 and the first passage opening 338 is not immediately apparent. The indicators 468 and 466 shown in and described in connection with FIGS. 4A and 4B help to determine the size of the second insert opening 220 of the insert 216 currently in use with the gas block 102 and also help to determine whether the insert 216 is properly positioned within the first passage 210.

The surface 374 is a surface of a head 326 of the insert 216. For example, the head 326 of the insert 216 is substantially cylindrical, and the surface 374 is a surface enclosed by a circumference of the head 326. Although the surface 374 is shown in FIG. 4A to be three-dimensional with indentations and protrusions (e.g., indentation 466a and indicator 468a), examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. In some examples, the surface 374 is substantially flat and smooth, and indicators 468a and indentations 466a are markings of colors and/or shades on the surface 374 rather than three-dimensional components.

As shown in FIG. 4A, each surface 474 includes a number of visual indicators 468. The visual indicators 468 indicate a size of the second insert opening of that insert. For example, a quantity of the visual indicators 468 indicates a size of the second insert opening. As shown in FIG. 4A, insert 216a includes a single visual indicator 468a. A second insert 216b includes two visual indicators 468b, indicating the larger size of the second insert opening 220b of the second insert 216b. As discussed above, the second insert opening 220b of the second insert has a width w2, which is greater than a width w1 of the second insert opening 220a of the first insert 216a. In some examples, each of the inserts 216 include a single indicator 468, and the size of the indicator 468 is proportional to the size of the second insert opening 220.

FIG. 4A illustrates non-numeric indicators 468. The indicators 468 are small circles on the surface 374 of the inserts 216. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. For example, the indicators 468 are of any suitable shape. In some examples, the indicators 468 are of a size sufficient to be visible to the naked human eye.

As shown in FIG. 2B, the gas block 102 includes an exterior surface 262. In some examples, the exterior surface includes a gas block mark 264. At least one insert 216 includes a corresponding mark. For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, an insert 416a includes an insert mark 466a. The insert 216 is configured such that the insert mark 466 and the gas block mark 264 indicate that the second insert opening 220 is substantially aligned with the first opening 312 of the first passage 210 when the insert mark 466 and the gas block mark 264 are aligned. When the insert mark 466 and the gas block mark 264 are aligned, the second insert opening 220 is substantially aligned with and/or close enough to the opening 312 of the first passage 210 such that gas is allowed to flow from the insert 316 and out of the first passage 210. When the insert mark 466 and the gas block mark 264 are aligned, the first insert opening 438 is substantially aligned with and/or close enough to the first opening 338 of the first passage 210 such that gas flows from the bore 304, into the first passage 210 via the opening 338, and into the insert 316. As used herein, the term “substantially aligned” refers to two components (e.g., second insert opening 220 and the second opening 312 of the first passage 210) that they at least overlap or are at least partially coplanar in at least one plane that is substantially parallel to the direction of gas flow between the two components. For example, the second insert opening 220 and the second opening 312 of the first passage 210 are substantially aligned when at least a portion of the second insert opening 220 and the second opening 312 of the first passage 210 are coplanar in a plane substantially parallel to the d1 and d3 directions. In some examples, the alignment of the insert mark 466 and the gas block mark 264 is proportional to the alignment of the second opening 312 of the first passage 210 and the second insert opening 220. For example, the closer that the insert mark 466 and the gas block mark 264 are aligned, the closer that the second insert opening 220 and the second opening 312 of the first passage 310 are aligned and the greater the area of overlap is between the second insert opening 220 and the second opening 312 of the first passage 310.

As shown in FIG. 4A, each insert 216 includes a head 426 and a body 428. The head 426 has a width that is greater than a width of the body 428. The difference in width can help to create a tighter seal between the insert 216 and the gas block 102 such that gas does not escape from the gas block 102. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3A, in some examples, the shape of the insert 216 corresponds to the shape of the bore 210. As shown in FIG. 4A, in some examples, both the head 426 and the body 428 are substantially cylindrical in shape. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. In some examples, at least one of the head 426 and the body 428 is substantially square or rectangular in shape. In some examples, the head 426 is substantially square, and the body 428 is substantially cylindrical, or vice versa.

In some examples, each insert 216 is shaped similarly to the first passage 210. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the first passage 210 includes a first portion 392 that is wider than a second portion 394 of the first passage 210. In some examples, the first portion 392 receives the head 326 of the insert 216, and the second portion 394 receives the body 328 of the insert 216. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3A, both the head 326 and the body 328 are substantially cylindrical in shape, and each of the first portion 392 and the second portion 394 are likewise substantially cylindrical in shape. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. The first passage 210 is of any shape suitable to receive the insert 216 and to be connected to both the bore 304 and the channel 208. In some examples, the first passage 210 is shaped rectangular, as a square, asymmetrically, and/or any combination thereof.

The second insert opening 420 is positioned on the body 428. For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the second insert opening 420 is positioned closer to a distal end 496 of the body 428 than to a proximal end 498 of the body 428. The distal end 496 enters the first passage 210 before the proximal end 498 when the insert 216 is inserted into the first passage 210. The proximal end 498 is the end closest to the head 426.

In some examples, the size of the second insert opening 220 matches a size of the second opening 312 of the first passage 210. In other examples, the second insert opening 320 has a size that is different from a size of the second opening 312 of the first passage 210. In some examples, the shape of the second insert opening 220 is similar to a shape of the second opening 312 of the first passage 210. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, each of the second opening 312 of the first passage 210 and the second insert opening 220 are substantially circular in shape. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. For example, in some examples, at least one of the second insert opening 220 and the second opening 312 of the first passage 210 are shaped: asymmetrically, triangularly, rectangularly, as ellipses, and/or any combination thereof.

FIG. 5A is a side view of a gas regulating system 100, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5A, the gas block 102 is attached to the barrel 106. In some examples, the bore 304 is encircled about the barrel 106.

FIG. 5B is a sectional view of the gas regulating system 100 of FIG. 5A, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 5B is a sectional view of the system 100 in the plane ‘A’ shown in FIG. 5A, with the insert 216 received by the first passage 210, the tube 142 received by the channel 208, and the pin 128 securing the tube 142 within the channel 208. FIG. 5B also shows barrel attachment screws 248 securing the gas block 102 to the barrel 106.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the gas block 102 receives the barrel 106. The barrel 106 includes an opening 586, which may be referred to as a gas port. The opening 586 allows gas to escape from the barrel 106. For example, the gas flows in a direction d1 through the channel 314 connecting the first passage 210 and the bore 304. In some examples, the opening 586 is substantially circular in shape. However, examples of the present disclosure are not so limited. The opening 586 is, for example, asymmetrical or rectangular. The barrel opening 586 is positioned on a portion of the barrel 106 that is received by the gas block 102. In some examples, the gas block 102 is attached to the barrel 106 such that the barrel opening 586 is substantially aligned and/or in proximity with the opening 388 of the bore 304.

FIG. 5C is another sectional view of the gas regulating system 100 of FIGS. 5A-B, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 5C is a sectional view of the system 100 in the virtual plane ‘B’ shown in FIG. 5A, with the insert 216 received by the first passage 210, the tube 142 received by the channel 208, and the pin 128 securing the tube 142 within the channel 208. Additionally, FIG. 5C shows the second passage screw 236 received by the second passage 334 and contacting the insert 216.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the second passage screw 236, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. In some examples, the second passage screw 236 is a set screw. As shown in FIG. 6, in some examples, the second passage screw 236 is threaded to mate with an interior surface of the second passage 334 such that the second passage screw 236 moves into the second passage 334 when rotated with respect to the gas block 102. The second passage 334 is a threaded hole. Additionally, the second passage screw 236 includes an end 238 configured to contact the insert (e.g., configured to contact the indentation 456a of the insert). In some examples, the end 238 is configured to fill the space between the first passage 210 and the insert 216 at the indentation 456. In some examples, the end 238 is made of a material configured to allow the end 238 to compress and hold the second passage screw 236 in place through tension. For example, the end is made of brass. In some examples, the end 238 is a dog nose.

In some examples, the second passage screw 236 includes a socket 637 to facilitate insertion into and/or removal from the second passage 334. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the socket 637 is a hex socket. To remove the second passage screw 236 from the second passage 334, a tool such as an Allen key and/or a driver mates with the socket to rotate the second passage screw 236 into and/or out of the second passage 334.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a barrel attachment screw 248, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. In some examples, the barrel attachment screw 248 is a set screw. In some examples, the barrel attachment screw 248 is of a length less than a length of the second passage screw 236. In some examples, the barrel attachment screw 248 is threaded and is configured to mate with a threaded opening, such as opening 352, of the gas block 102. In some examples, the barrel attachment screw 248 also mates with an opening and/or a socket 378 of the barrel 106 to secure the gas block 102 to the barrel 106.

In some examples, the barrel attachment screw 248 includes an end 749 configured to be received by the barrel socket 378. Similar to the second passage screw 236, the barrel attachment screw 248 includes a socket 747 that mates with a tool to facilitate removal from and/or insertion into the barrel socket 378.

In the above description, certain terms may be used such as “up,” “down,” “upper,” “lower,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “left,” “right,” “over,” “under” and the like. These terms are used, where applicable, to provide some clarity of description when dealing with relative relationships. But, these terms are not intended to imply absolute relationships, positions, and/or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, an “upper” surface can become a “lower” surface simply by turning the object over. Nevertheless, it is still the same object. Further, the terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and/or mutually inclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specified otherwise. Further, the term “plurality” can be defined as “at least two.” Moreover, unless otherwise noted, as defined herein a plurality of particular features does not necessarily mean every particular feature of an entire set or class of the particular features.

Additionally, instances in this specification where one element is “coupled” to another element can include direct and indirect coupling. Direct coupling can be defined as one element coupled to and in some contact with another element. Indirect coupling can be defined as coupling between two elements not in direct contact with each other, but having one or more additional elements between the coupled elements. Further, as used herein, securing one element to another element can include direct securing and indirect securing. Additionally, as used herein, “adjacent” does not necessarily denote contact. For example, one element can be adjacent to another element without being in contact with that element.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of”, when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used and only one of the items in the list may be needed. The item may be a particular object, thing, or category. In other words, “at least one of” means any combination of items or number of items may be used from the list, but not all of the items in the list may be required. For example, “at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may mean item A; item A and item B; item B; item A, item B, and item C; or item B and item C. In some cases, “at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may mean, for example, without limitation, two of item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or some other suitable combination.

Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “first,” “second,” etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second” item does not require or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbered item, and/or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

As used herein, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function is indeed capable of performing the specified function without any alteration, rather than merely having potential to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and/or designed for the purpose of performing the specified function. As used herein, “configured to” denotes existing characteristics of a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware which enable the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware to perform the specified function without further modification. For purposes of this disclosure, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware described as being “configured to” perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being “adapted to” and/or as being “operative to” perform that function.

The schematic flow chart diagrams included herein are generally set forth as logical flow chart diagrams. As such, the depicted order and labeled steps are indicative of one example of the presented method. Other steps and methods may be conceived that are equivalent in function, logic, or effect to one or more steps, or portions thereof, of the illustrated method. Additionally, the format and symbols employed are provided to explain the logical steps of the method and are understood not to limit the scope of the method. Although various arrow types and line types may be employed in the flow chart diagrams, they are understood not to limit the scope of the corresponding method. Indeed, some arrows or other connectors may be used to indicate only the logical flow of the method. For instance, an arrow may indicate a waiting or monitoring period of unspecified duration between enumerated steps of the depicted method. Additionally, the order in which a particular method occurs may or may not strictly adhere to the order of the corresponding steps shown.

The present subject matter may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described examples are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

ADJUSTABLE GAS REGULATING SYSTEMS AND APPARATUSES

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CPC

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