ARCHERY RELEASE AID

Abstract

An archery release aid is described. A trigger device for the archery release aid comprises a trigger pivotally mounted on a trigger pivot pin, the trigger movable between a cocked position and a fired position. A sear is pivotally mounted on a sear pivot pin and configured to interface with the trigger. A cocking spring is configured to bias the sear and the trigger in the cocked position. A string hook is pivotally mounted on a pivot pin. A reset spring is configured to bias the string hook in the cocked position. A roller is configured to rotate about its axis. In the cocked position the roller is retained between the sear and the string hook and in the fired position, the sear is rotated away from the roller, which allows the roller to translate and the string hook to release.

Description

FIELD

The present description relates generally to an improved archery release aid and specifically to an improved trigger device, wrist support, and wrist strap clamp.

BACKGROUND

In archery, a release aid, mechanical release, or release is a device that helps to fire arrows more precisely, by using a trigger to release the bowstring, rather than an archer's fingers. It is used to make the release of the bowstring quicker and reduce the amount of torque put onto the bowstring from the archer's fingers.

The release aid attaches to the bowstring just below a nocking point or at a D-loop and permits the archer to release the string using a trigger. The trigger may include a trigger lever which is actuated by depressing by a finger or thumb. Alternatively, the trigger may include a trigger lever that is held and then released. Hydraulic and mechanical time delay triggers have been used, as have back tension triggers. Back tension triggers are operated by either a change in the position of the release or “true back tension”. The release triggers when a pre-determined draw weight is reached.

Wrist triggers are popular release aids and are traditionally used by hunters and casual recreational shooters. These are commonly used because of the familiarity most people have with pulling a trigger. These release aids consist of a wrist band coupled to a trigger device via a rod or a strap.

Hook or caliper style release aids are popular with the wrist trigger style of releases. With only one or a few moving parts, such releases are simple and dependable. The D-loop is the most popular way of attaching the release aid to the bowstring because it causes the least torque on the bowstring itself. The D-loop consists of a small-diameter piece of nylon cord tied or attached to the bowstring. It is named for the resulting “D” shape.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved archery release aid.

SUMMARY

In accordance with an aspect of an embodiment, there is provided a trigger device for an archery release aid, the trigger device comprising: a trigger pivotally mounted on a trigger pivot pin, the trigger movable between a cocked position and a fired position; a sear pivotally mounted on a sear pivot pin, the sear configured to interface with the trigger; a cocking spring configured to bias the sear and the trigger in the cocked position; a string hook pivotally mounted on a pivot pin; a reset spring configured to bias the string hook in the cocked position; and a roller configured to rotate about its axis; wherein in the cocked position the roller is retained between the sear and the string hook and in the fired position, the sear is rotated away from the roller, which allows the roller to translate and the string hook to release.

The roller may be retained between a protrusion on the sear and a protrusion on the string hook. In the cocked position, the sear protrusion, the string hook protrusion, the roller, and the sear pivot pin may be substantially aligned. A roller guide may be configured to restrict the translation of the roller. The bias force of the cocking spring may be user adjustable. The sear may further comprise a nub abutting the trigger. The cocking spring may bias the sear which, in turn, may bias the trigger in the cocked position. In the cocked position, clockwise rotation of the string hook may be inhibited by the roller and the sear. In the fired position, force from the reset spring may cause the string hook to return and engage the roller.

In accordance with an aspect of an embodiment, there is provided a trigger device for an archery trigger aid, the trigger device comprising a trigger; and a string hook operatively coupled to the trigger, the string hook comprising a support shoulder configured to retain a bowstring. In accordance with another aspect of an embodiment, there is provided a string hook for use with a trigger device for an archery trigger aid, the string hook comprising a support shoulder configured to retain a bowstring.

The string hook may further comprise an upper surface; and a lower surface; wherein the support shoulder joins the upper surface and the lower surface. The upper surface may comprise a curved side profile that contours inwards towards the support shoulder. The string hook is configured to retain the bowstring via a D-loop. The upper surface may further comprise an exit curve contoured to facilitate a smooth release of the bowstring or the D-loop. The exit curve may be a curve on a portion of the surface of the string hook that the bowstring or the D-loop traverses when the string hook is released.

In accordance with an aspect of an embodiment, there is provided a C-shaped strap clamp configured to secure a wrist strap to a trigger device, the strap clamp comprising: first and second opposing elongate arms, each of the elongate arms comprising a contoured surface portion shaped to complement the shape of a post on the trigger device; a short arm coupling the first elongate arm to the second elongate arm; and a fastener configured to tighten the strap clamp to engage the wrist strap and secure it to the post.

The short arm may comprise an opening configured to receive the wrist strap. The fastener may be coupled to the first and second elongate arms at ends distal from the ends coupled to the short arm. Each of the elongate arms may comprise an opening at an end distal from the end coupled to the short arm, and the fastener may comprise a nut and bolt assembly. The first elongate arm and the short arm may form an L-shaped main body and the second elongate arm may be hingedly attached to the short arm. When fastened about the post, the strap clamp inhibits lateral translation of the wrist strap but allows rotation about the post.

In accordance with an aspect of an embodiment, there is provided an archery release aid comprising: a trigger device configured to fire a bowstring, the trigger device comprising an opening and a post positioned towards the rear of the trigger device; a wrist support for mounting on a user's wrist, the wrist support comprising a wrist strap for coupling to the trigger device; and a strap clamp for securing the strap to the post of the trigger device; wherein under tension from the wrist strap, the strap clamp rotates laterally about the post.

The strap clamp may be C-shaped and may comprise: first and second opposing elongate arms, each of the elongate arms comprising a contoured surface portion shaped to complement the shape of a post on the trigger device; a short arm coupling the first elongate arm to the second elongate arm; and a fastener configured to tighten the strap clamp to engage the wrist strap and secure it to the post. The short arm may comprise an opening configured to receive the wrist strap. The fastener may be coupled to the first and second elongate arms at ends distal from the ends coupled to the short arm. Each of the elongate arms may comprise an opening at an end distal from the end coupled to the short arm, and the fastener may comprise a nut and bolt assembly. The first elongate arm and the short arm may form an L-shaped main body and the second elongate arm may be hingedly attached to the short arm.

In accordance with an aspect of an embodiment, there is provided a wrist support for an archery release aid, the wrist support comprising: a main body to be worn on the wrist of a user; a wrist strap attached to the main body; and a magnet attached to the main body, wherein the magnet is configured to hold a trigger device against the main body using magnetic force.

The wrist support may further comprise a pocket in the main body. The pocket may have an inner wall and an outer wall. The pocket may be sized to receive the trigger device. The magnet is attached to the main body within the outer wall. The wrist strap may be attached to the wrist support at a point inside of the pocket.

In accordance with an aspect of an embodiment, there is provided a wrist support for an archery release aid, the wrist support comprising: a main body to be worn on the wrist of a user; a wrist strap for coupling the wrist support to a trigger device; and a pocket in the main body, the pocket having an inner wall and an outer wall, the pocket sized to receive a trigger device. The wrist strap may be attached to the wrist support at a point inside of the pocket.

In accordance with an aspect of an embodiment, there is provided an archery release aid comprising: a trigger device configured to fire a bowstring; a wrist support comprising: a main body to be worn on the wrist of a user; a wrist strap attached to the main body; and a magnet attached to the main body, wherein the magnet is configured to hold the trigger device against the main body using magnetic force; and a strap clamp for securing the wrist strap to the trigger device.

The main body may comprise a pocket having an inner wall and an outer wall. The pocket may be sized to receive the trigger device. The magnet may be attached to the main body within the outer wall. The wrist strap may be attached to the wrist support at a point inside of the pocket.

In accordance with yet an aspect of an embodiment, there is provided a slidably adjustable trigger comprising: a trigger base having a trigger lever interface, the trigger lever interface including a ratcheted surface comprising a plurality of teeth; a trigger lever comprising a trigger base interface and an opening; and a camming lever comprising a main body and a head, the head rotationally coupled to the trigger lever proximal the trigger base interface, the head comprising a camming lobe and a locking pawl; wherein the camming lever is movable from a locked position in which the locking pawl is engaged with one of the plurality of teeth limiting relative motion between the trigger base and the trigger lever to an unlocked position in which the locking pawl is disengaged from the plurality of teeth permitting relative motion between the trigger base and the trigger lever.

In the locked position the camming lever may be nested within the opening of the trigger lever and in the unlocked position the camming lever may be spaced apart from the trigger lever. The trigger lever interface may comprise a dovetail shoe and the trigger base interface comprising a dovetail rail. The trigger lever interface comprises a dovetail rail and the trigger base interface comprising a dovetail shoe. The camming lobe may be configured to force the trigger base and the trigger lever apart as the camming lever rotates from the unlocked position to the locked position, thereby causing a friction fit between the trigger lever interface and the trigger base interface. The camming lobe may configured to increase the friction fit between the trigger base and the trigger lever as it rotates towards the locked position. The friction fit may reach a maximum prior to the camming lever reaching the locked position.

In accordance with an aspect of an embodiment, there is provided a slidably adjustable trigger comprising: a trigger base having a trigger lever interface; a trigger lever comprising a trigger base interface and an opening; and a camming lever comprising a main body and a head, the head rotationally coupled to the trigger lever proximal the trigger base interface, the head comprising a camming lobe; wherein the camming lever is movable from a locked position in which the head of the camming lever is engaged with the trigger lever interface limiting relative motion between the trigger base and the trigger lever to an unlocked position in which the head of the camming lobe is disengaged from trigger lever interface permitting relative motion between the trigger base and the trigger lever.

In the locked position the camming lever may nested within the opening of the trigger lever and in the unlocked position the camming lever may be spaced apart from the trigger lever. The trigger lever interface may comprises a dovetail shoe and the trigger base interface may comprise a dovetail rail. The trigger lever interface may comprise a dovetail rail and the trigger base interface may comprise a dovetail shoe. The camming lobe may be configured to force the trigger base and the trigger lever apart as the camming lever rotates from the unlocked position to the locked position, thereby causing a friction fit between the trigger lever interface and the trigger base interface. The camming lobe may configured to increase the friction fit between the trigger base and the trigger lever as the camming lever rotates towards the locked position. The friction fit may reach a maximum prior to the camming lever reaching the locked position. The head of the camming level may further comprise a locking pawl. The trigger lever interface may include a ratcheted surface comprising a plurality of teeth. In the locked position the locking pawl may be engaged with one of the plurality of teeth, further limiting relative motion between the trigger base and the trigger lever. In the unlocked position the locking pawl may be disengaged from the plurality of teeth, further permitting relative motion between the trigger base and the trigger lever.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the following drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of an archery trigger in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 2a and 2b are isometric views of the archery trigger illustrating a coupling interface of the trigger;

FIG. 3 is front view of a portion of the archery trigger;

FIGS. 4a and 4b are side views of the archery trigger having differently positioned trigger levers;

FIGS. 5a to 5d are enlarged views of a camming lever when locking/unlocking the trigger lever;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the archery trigger illustrating a string hook in an armed position;

FIG. 7 is a side view of the archery trigger illustrating a string hook in a fired position;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the archery trigger illustrating a string hook in a cocked position;

FIGS. 9a to 9d are side views of the archery trigger illustrating various stages of firing the trigger;

FIGS. 10a to 10f illustrate the contours of the string hook;

FIGS. 11a to 11c illustrate a strap clamp for the archery trigger; and

FIGS. 12a to 12d illustrate a wrist support for the archery trigger.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

For convenience, like numerals in the description refer to like structures in the drawings. Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5d, a trigger device for an archery release aid is illustrated generally by numeral 100. The trigger device 100 comprises a trigger 102, a sear 104, a roller 106, a roller guide 107, a string hook 108, a trigger pivot pin 110, a sear pivot pin 112, a string hook pivot pin 114, a reset spring 116, a cocking spring 118, and an opening 117 defining a post 119 at the rear of the trigger device 100.

The trigger 102 comprises two portions. A first portion, referred to as a trigger base 120, is rotationally coupled to the trigger device 100 at the trigger pivot pin 110. The second portion, referred to as a trigger lever 122, is slidably coupled to the trigger base 120, as will be described. The trigger is movable from a cocked position to a fired position.

The cocking spring 118 is coupled to the sear 104. The cocking spring 118 is configured to bias the sear 104 in a counter-clockwise direction about the sear pivot pin 112. The cocking spring 118 may apply a fixed bias force or the bias force may be adjustable. The bias force from the cocking spring 118 causes a nub 104a on the sear 104 to abut the trigger 102. The force from the sear 104 causes trigger 102 to be biased in the cocked position.

The reset spring 116 may be coupled between a fixed point on the trigger device 100 and the string hook 108. Alternatively, the reset spring 116 is coupled between a fixed point on the sear 104 and the string hook 108. In an embodiment, the reset spring 116 is coupled to the string hook 108 at a point above the string hook pivot pin 114. Thus, the reset spring 116 biases the string hook in a counter-clockwise direction about the string hook pivot pin 114.

The roller 106 is configured to rotate about its axis. The roller 106 can also translate within the trigger device 100. In an embodiment, the roller 106 is at least partially positioned within the roller guide 107. The roller guide 107 comprises a pair of space apart apertures and the roller is restrained to translation within the roller guide 107. In a cocked position, the roller 106 is held between the sear 104 and the string hook 108. That is, the position of the sear 104 and the string hook 108 inhibits translation of the roller 106.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the roller 106 is held between a protrusion 104b of the sear 104 and a protrusion 108a of the string hook 108. In the cocked position, the sear pivot pin 112, the sear protrusion 104b, the roller 106, and the string hook protrusion 108a are substantially aligned. A force may be applied to the string hook 108 in a forward direction, illustrated by directional arrow A. Although the applied force may be sufficient to overcome the bias force of the reset spring 116, the string hook 108 is held in position by the roller 106, which is held in place by the sear protrusion 104b. Further, the alignment of the sear pivot pin 112, the sear protrusion 104b, the roller 106, and the string hook protrusion 108a inhibits the applied force from being translated to a rotational force on the sear 104.

In operation, pulling the trigger lever 122 with a force (pull weight) greater than the bias force of the cocking spring 118 causes the trigger base 120 to rotate clockwise about the trigger pivot pin 110. Rotation of the trigger base 120 causes the sear 104 to rotate clockwise about the sear pivot pin 112. Rotation of the sear 104 releases the roller 106, allowing it to translate within the roller guide 107. The translation of the roller 106 releases the string hook 108. If sufficient force is applied to the string hook 108 to overcome the bias force of the reset spring 116, the string hook 108 will rotate clockwise about the string hook pivot pin 114.

Upon release of the trigger lever 122, the bias force of the cocking spring 118 causes the sear 104 to rotate in a counter-clockwise direction about the sear pivot pin 114. The force from the sear 104 causes trigger 102 to rotate in a counter-clockwise direction about the trigger pivot pin 110 to return to the cocked position. Similarly, the force from the reset spring 116 causes the string hook 108 to return and engage the roller 106. Thus, the trigger device 100 is automatically re-cocked. If, for whatever reason, the string hook 108 resets too late to engage the roller 106, the trigger device 100 may not automatically re-cock. However, pulling the trigger lever 122 will cause the sear 104 to rotate, as discussed above. Movement of the sear 104 will allow the roller 106 to translate and the string hook 108 will return to the cocked position under tension from the reset spring 116.

In an embodiment, the trigger 102 is adjustable. The trigger base 120 comprises a trigger lever interface 202 and the trigger lever 122 comprises a trigger base interface 204. The trigger lever interface 202 and the trigger base interface 204 are configured to form a sliding joint. In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger lever interface 202 is a dovetail shoe, the trigger base interface 204 is a dovetail rail, and the joint is a sliding dovetail joint. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the dovetail shoe 202 includes a ratcheted surface comprising a plurality of teeth 206. The dovetail rail 204 is sized so that it can slide easily within the dovetail shoe 202 with little or no friction.

The trigger lever 122 further includes an opening 224 and a camming lever 226. The camming lever 226 comprises a body 230 and a head 232. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 5a to 5d, the head 232 comprises a camming lobe 234 and a locking pawl 236. The camming lever 226 is configured to fit substantially within the opening 224 of the trigger lever 122. The head 232 of the camming lever 226 is rotationally coupled to the trigger lever 122 via a camming lever pivot pin 238. The camming lever pivot pin 238 is positioned proximal the dovetail rail 204.

The camming lever 226 is configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2a, in the unlocked position the body 230 of the camming lever 226 is spaced apart from the trigger lever 122. As more clearly shown in FIG. 5a, the camming lobe 234 and the locking pawl 236 are positioned so that the camming lever 226 is not in contact with the dovetail shoe 202. Thus, the dovetail rail 204 can freely slide within the dovetail shoe 202. The position of the trigger lever 122 can then be adjusted by sliding the dovetail rail 204 to a desired position within the dovetail shoe 202.

As shown in FIGS. 5a to 5d, as the camming lever 226 rotates clockwise, the camming lobe 234 engages with the dovetail shoe 202. As the camming lever 126 continues to rotate, the camming lobe 234 forces the trigger lever 122 and the trigger base 120 apart. This force causes the dovetail rail 204 to engage with the dovetail shoe 202, as best illustrated in FIG. 3. Thus, at this point, there is a friction fit at the dovetail joint which inhibits relative motion of the dovetail rail 204 with respect to the dovetail shoe 202. In an embodiment, the camming lobe 234 is configured to further force the trigger lever 122 from the trigger base 120 as the camming lever continues to rotate, further increasing the strength of the friction fit. This increase in friction fit continues until a highest point of the camming lobe 234 is reached. The highest point is shown in FIG. 5c, at which point the friction fit is its strongest.

As shown in FIG. 5d, as the camming lever 126 continues past the highest point of the camming lobe 234, the camming lever 226 reaches the locked position. In the locked position, the locking pawl 136 engages a corresponding one of the teeth 206 in the ratcheted surface of the dovetail shoe 202. The engagement of the locking pawl 236 and the corresponding one of the teeth 206 more securely locks the position of the dovetail shoe 202 with respect to the dovetail rail 204. This, in turn, secures the lateral position of the trigger lever 122 with respect to the trigger base 120. In an embodiment, to provide physical feedback to a user, the position of the camming lobe 234 in the locked position is lower than its highest point. As shown in FIG. 2b, in the locked position, the camming lever 226 is nested within the opening 224 of the trigger lever 122. The nested position inhibits the likelihood of the camming lever 226 affecting the feel of pulling the trigger.

Counter-clockwise rotation of the camming lever 226 from the locked position to the unlocked position causes the interaction described above to occur in reverse. The locking pawl 236 disengages from corresponding one of the teeth 206 in the dovetail shoe 202. The force applied by the camming lobe 234 to the trigger lever 122 and the trigger base 120 decreases until the camming lobe 234 disengages from the dovetail shoe 202. At this point, the camming lever 226 is in the unlocked position and the dovetail rail 204 can slide within the dovetail shoe 202 with little or no resistance.

As will be appreciated, the adjustable trigger lever described above allows the trigger lever 122 to be easily adjusted without any tools. Referring to FIG. 4a, the trigger device 100 is shown with the trigger lever 122 positioned towards the back. Referring to FIG. 4b, the trigger device 100 is shown with the trigger lever 122 positioned towards the front.

Although the embodiments of the trigger lever 122 above are described with reference to a trigger device 100 for an archery release aid, they are not necessarily limited to such triggers. For example, the mechanism described to adjust the position of the trigger lever 122 can be implemented in other trigger devices, including crossbows, firearms, and the like.

Further, although the trigger lever interface 202 is described as a dovetail shoe and the trigger base interface 204 is described as a dovetail rail, in another embodiment it may be possible to interchange these elements. In such an embodiment, the trigger lever interface 202 comprises the dovetail rail and the trigger base interface 204 comprises the dovetail shoe. In such an embodiment, the dovetail rail would include the ratcheted surface.

Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, the release of the string hook 108 will be described in greater detail. The trigger device 100 further includes a rebound bar 602 proximal the front of the trigger device 100. The string hook 108 comprises a reset nub 603 and a rebound contour 604. In an embodiment, the rebound contour 604 is a concave surface. The reset nub 603 is shaped and positioned to limit counter-clockwise rotation of string hook 108 about the string hook pivot pin 114. Similarly, the rebound contour 604 is shaped and positioned to limit clockwise rotation of the string hook 108 about the string hook pivot pin 114. The rebound bar 602 comprises an elastic material to facilitate rebound of the string hook 108, especially as it engages 702 the rebound contour 604, as will be described.

As shown in FIG. 9a, the trigger device 100 is shown cocked and at rest. Although not shown, a D-loop can be coupled to the string hook 108 to draw the bowstring. Accordingly, when the bowstring is drawn, the D-loop applies a force on the string hook 108 in a forward direction, illustrated by directional arrow A. Although the force applied by the D-loop is sufficient to overcome the bias force of the reset spring 116, the string hook 108 is held in position by the roller 106, which is held in place by the sear 104.

As shown in FIG. 9b, when the trigger lever 122 is pulled, the trigger 102 rotates about the trigger pivot pin 110. As the trigger 102 rotates, the trigger base 120 contacts the sear 104, causing it to rotate about the sear pivot pin 112. As the sear 104 rotates it allows translation of the roller 106 which, in turn, releases the string hook 108.

As shown in FIG. 9c, once the string hook 108 has released, force from the D-loop pulls and rotates the string hook 108 clockwise about the string hook pivot pin 114. As the string hook 108 rotates the D-loop and the bowstring are fully released and a bow is fired.

The string hook 108 continues to rotate until the rebound contour 604 collides with the rebound bar 602. As show in FIG. 9d, the force of the collision causes the string hook 108 to rebound and rotate counter-clockwise about the string hook pivot pin 114. Further, force from the reset spring 116 causes the string hook 108 to rotate counter-clockwise about the string hook pivot pin 114 towards the cocked position. In an alternative embodiment, the spring force of the reset spring 116 is sufficiently high to slow and reverse the clockwise rotation of the string hook 108, absent any collision between the rebound contour 604 and the rebound bar 602.

According to an embodiment, the trigger device 100 further comprises a shoulder on the string hook 108 to facilitate consistent positioning of the D-loop or the bowstring itself when preparing to release the bowstring. Referring to FIGS. 10a to 10f, the string hook 108 is illustrated in greater detail. The string hook 108 comprises an upper surface 1002 and a lower surface 1004. The upper and lower surfaces 1002 and 1004 are joined by a support shoulder 1006. In an embodiment, the upper surface 1002 comprises a curved side profile that contours inwards towards the support shoulder 1006. Similarly, the lower surface 1004 comprises a curved side profile that contours inwards towards the support shoulder 1006. In an embodiment, the upper surface 1002 further includes an exit curve 1008. The exit curve 1008 is a curved on a portion of the surface of the string hook 108 that the D-loop traverses when the string hook 108 is released. The exit curve 1008 is contoured to facilitate a smooth release of the D-loop.

The support shoulder 1006 retains the D-loop 1010 in a substantially repeatable position on the string hook 108. This positioning of the D-loop is best illustrated in FIGS. 10e and 10f. Thus, when the trigger device 100 is used to draw a bowstring, the D-loop will rest at substantially the same position for each draw. This consistency provides predictability and, as a result, facilitates improved accuracy when firing arrows.

According to an embodiment, a strap clamp is provided to secure a wrist strap about the post 119 of the trigger device 100. Many wrist releases aids include a wrist support that is integrated or permanently attached to the trigger device 100. However, some users may prefer to use the same wrist support with different triggers devices 100. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 11a to 11c, a strap clamp 1102 is provided to removably couple a wrist strap 1104 of a wrist support (not shown) to the trigger device 100. The strap clamp 1102 is substantially c-shaped. The strap clamp 1102 generally comprises a pair of elongate arms 1106a and 1106b. A short arm 1108 couples one end of the first elongate arm 1106a to one end of the second elongate arm 1106b. The short arm 1108 further comprises an opening through which the wrist strap can pass. A fastener 1110 is provided for the elongate arms 1106a and 1106b distal from the ends coupled to the short arm 1108. Each of the elongate arms 1106a and 1106b includes a contoured surface portion 1112a and 1112b, respectively. The contoured surface portions 1112a and 1112b are concave to complement the convex contour of the post 119.

In an embodiment, the strap clamp 1102 comprises an integrally formed, substantially L-shaped main body comprising the first elongate arm 1106a and the short arm 1108. The short arm 1108 is hingedly attached at its end to the second elongate arm 1106b, referred to as a clamping arm. In an embodiment, the elongate arms 1106a and 1106b comprise openings 1109 configured to receive the fastener 1110 there through. The fastener 1110 may comprise, for example, a nut 1110a and bolt 1110b assembly. In another embodiment, the fastener may be integrated into the first and second elongates arms 1106a and 1106b. In yet another embodiment, the fastener may comprise a small clamp used to clamp the distal ends of the first and second elongates arms 1106a and 1106b together.

To secure the wrist strap 1104 to the trigger device, one end of the wrist strap 1104 is inserted through the opening of the short arm 1108 and the opening 117 in the trigger device 100. The end of the wrist strap 1104 is wrapped around the post 119 and pulled back alongside the remainder of the wrist strap 1104 until a desired length is reached. The strap clamp 1102 is closed over the wrist strap 1104 and the post 119 of the trigger device 100. Accordingly, the contoured portion 1112a of the first elongate arm 1106a engages with a first portion of the wrist strap 1304 on one side of the post 119. The contoured portion 1112b of the clamping arm 1106b engages with a second portion of the wrist strap 1104 of the other side of the post 119. The fastener 1110 is tightened to clamp the wrist strap 1104 to the trigger device 100. Thus, the strap clamp 1102 inhibits lateral translation of the wrist strap 1104 so that it does not inadvertently loosen under tension.

Further, it will be appreciated that the strap clamp 1102 does not directly engage the trigger device 100 itself. Rather, it clamps around the wrist strap 1304. Thus, the strap clamp 1102 can be seen to be “floating” within the opening 117. That is, under tension from the wrist strap 1104, the strap clamp 1102 can rotate about the post 119. As a result, the strap clamp 1102 will inhibit the wrist strap 1304 from biasing the trigger device 100 at a particular angle. In other words, slight lateral wrist movement will have a minimal affect on the alignment of the trigger device 100, if at all. This configuration reduces the likelihood of angular misalignments from wrist torsion leading to an errant shot.

The strap clamp 1102 is described above as having an L-shaped main body hingedly attached to a clamping arm 1106b. In an alternate embodiment, the strap clamp 1102 comprises a unitary body. In such an embodiment, the material used for the strap clamp 1102 is sufficiently flexible to allow attaching and removing the strap clamp 1102 from the wrist strap 1104 and the post 119.

Referring to FIGS. 12a to 12d, a wrist support for the trigger device 100 is illustrated by numeral 1200. The wrist support 1200 comprises a body 1202, an adjustable strap 1204, the wrist strap 1104, a pocket 1206, and a magnet 1208.

The body 1202 is configured to be worn on the wrist of the user. The adjustable strap 1204 can be used to adjust the body 1202 to fit comfortably on the user's wrist. The pocket 1206 is formed in the body 1202. Referring to FIG. 12b, the inside of the pocket 1206 is shown. The inside of the pocket 1206 comprises a lower wall 1206a and an upper wall 1206b. The lower wall 1206a is proximal to the user's wrist when the wrist support 1200 is being worn. The upper wall 1206b is distal to the user's wrist when the wrist support 1200 is being worn. The magnet 1208 is attached inside the upper wall 1206b. The pocket 1206 is sized to receive the trigger device 100.

The wrist strap 1104 is fixedly attached at one end to the wrist support 1200. In an embodiment, the wrist strap 1104 is fixedly attached to the wrist support 1200 at a point 1206c inside of the pocket 1206. For example, the wrist strap 1104 may be fixedly attached to the lower wall 1206a of the pocket 1206. The wrist strap 1104 is shown coupled to the trigger device 100.

As shown in FIG. 12c, the magnet 1208 can be used to hold the trigger device 100 against the upper wall 1206b of the pocket 1406 by magnetic force. Using the magnet 1208 to hold the trigger device 100 to the wrist support 1200 quickly frees up both of the user's hands for other activities.

As shown in FIG. 12d, the trigger device 100 can further be stored in the pocket 1206. The magnet 1208 provides additional support to keep the trigger device 100 in the pocket 1206. Storing the trigger device 100 in the pocket 1206 also frees up both of the user's hands for other activities. Additionally, when the trigger device 100 is stored in the pocket 1206 it is protected from external elements.

Although, in an embodiment the trigger 102 is described as being adjustable, in other embodiments, the trigger 102 may not be adjustable. If the trigger 102 is not adjustable, the trigger lever 122 and trigger base 120 may be of a unitary construction.

Although the trigger 100 has been described with reference to specific embodiments, the claims should not be limited by them. Specifically, the scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments described in the examples but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

Further, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” “top”, “bottom,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element's or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. For convenience, the relative terms used in the application relate to a user holding a crossbow facing forward as a reference frame. However, spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptions used herein interpreted accordingly.

This written description uses examples to disclose the embodiments, including the best mode, and also to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention. The patentable scope is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

In the foregoing specification, the concepts have been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of invention.

Also, the use of “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it states otherwise.

The description in the present application should not be read as implying that any particular element, step, or function is an essential or critical element that must be included in the claim scope. The scope of patented subject matter is defined only by the allowed claims. Moreover, none of the claims invokes 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f) with respect to any of the appended claims or claim elements unless the exact words “means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim, followed by a participle phrase identifying a function.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that can cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, sacrosanct or an essential feature of any or all the claims.

After reading the specification, skilled artisans will appreciate that certain features which are, for clarity, described herein in the context of separate embodiments, can also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, can also be provided separately or in any sub-combination. Further, references to values stated in ranges include each and every value within that range.

Claims

1. A trigger device for an archery release aid, the trigger device comprising: a trigger pivotally mounted on a trigger pivot pin, the trigger movable between a cocked position and a fired position;a sear pivotally mounted on a sear pivot pin, the sear configured to interface with the trigger;a cocking spring configured to bias the sear and the trigger in the cocked position;a string hook pivotally mounted on a pivot pin;a reset spring configured to bias the string hook in the cocked position; anda roller configured to rotate about its axis;wherein in the cocked position the roller is retained between the sear and the string hook and in the fired position, the sear is rotated away from the roller, which allows the roller to translate and the string hook to release.

2. The trigger device of claim 1, wherein the roller is retained between a protrusion on the sear and a protrusion on the string hook.

3. The trigger device of claim 2, wherein in the cocked position, the sear protrusion, the string hook protrusion, the roller, and the sear pivot pin are substantially aligned.

4. The trigger device of claim 1, further comprising a roller guide configured to restrict the translation of the roller.

5. The trigger device of claim 1, wherein the bias force of the cocking spring is user adjustable.

6. The trigger device of claim 1, wherein the sear further comprise a nub abutting the trigger, and the cocking spring biases the sear which, in turn, biases the trigger in the cocked position.

7. The trigger device of claim 1, wherein in the cocked position, clockwise rotation of the string hook is inhibited by the roller and the sear.

8. The trigger device of claim 1, wherein in the fired position force from the reset spring causes the string hook to return and engage the roller.

9. A trigger device for an archery trigger aid, the trigger device comprising: a trigger; anda string hook operatively coupled to the trigger, the string hook comprising a support shoulder configured to retain a bowstring.

10. The trigger device of claim 9, wherein the string hook is configured to retain the bowstring via a D-loop.

11. The trigger device of claim 9, wherein the string hook further comprises: an upper surface; anda lower surface;wherein the support shoulder joins the upper surface and the lower surface.

12. The trigger device of claim 9, where the upper surface comprises a curved side profile that contours inwards towards the support shoulder.

13. The trigger device of claim 12, wherein the upper surface further comprises an exit curve contoured to facilitate a smooth release of the bowstring or the D-loop.

14. The trigger device of claim 13, wherein the exit curve is a curve on a portion of the upper surface of the string hook that the bowstring or the D-loop traverses while being released.

15. A string hook for use with a trigger device for an archery trigger aid, the string hook comprising a support shoulder configured to retain a bowstring.

16. The string hook of claim 15, further comprising: an upper surface; anda lower surface;wherein the support shoulder joins the upper surface and the lower surface.

17. The string hook of claim 16, where the upper surface comprises a curved side profile that contours inwards towards the support shoulder.

18. The string hook of claim 15, wherein the string hook is configured to retain the bowstring via a D-loop.

19. The string hook of claim 18, wherein the upper surface further comprises an exit curve contoured to facilitate a smooth release of the bowstring or the D-loop.

20. The string hook of claim 19, wherein the exit curve is a curve on a portion of the upper surface of the string hook that the bowstring or the D-loop traverses when the string hook is released.