Crossbow

Abstract

Systems and apparatuses include a crossbow having a stock, a vertical limb, a hub, a mid support. A projectile plane defines a projectile axis within the projectile plane. The vertical limb includes a first end and a second end. The first end is coupled to the stock by a main support positioned vertically below the projectile axis. The second end is positioned vertically above the projectile plane. The hub is rotatably mounted to the stock and includes a first portion and a second portion positioned axially between the stock and the first portion. The first portion is operatively coupled with the vertical limb. The mid support is coupled to the stock. The mid support is configured to support the vertical limb between the first end and the second end.

Description

BACKGROUND

Crossbows typically include a bow portion, a stock portion, and a draw string latch that holds the bow in the fully drawn position. Typically, the draw string is perpendicular to the arrow or direction of flight. Furthermore, when shooting, the draw string moves aggressively from the drawn position to the rest position to propel the arrow forward.

Commonly, limbs perpendicular to the arrow flight guide the draw string and help to cancel out the recoil generated from firing the crossbow. In order to maintain an adequate power stroke when firing the crossbow, the length and weight of the limbs must be substantial, which increases the overall width and weight of the crossbow. The increased size of the crossbow makes handling and transporting more difficult.

Furthermore, the narrower the crossbow is made, the more difficult guiding the draw string becomes. Also, existing crossbows tend to suffer from left-to-right movement or timing issues of the draw string reducing the accuracy. Numerous camming means have been developed to reduce the draw string wear and make the crossbow narrow, but these suffer from drawbacks such as left-to-right movement of the drawstring.

Currently, crossbows produce speeds in excess of 400 feet per second (FPS); however, most suffer from inefficiencies, safety issues, left-to-right draw movement, and handling and transporting issues due to their size.

Therefore improvements are desired.

SUMMARY

This application generally relates to a crossbow.

One aspect is a crossbow including a first stock portion having a stock positioned at a rear end, the first stock portion defining a horizontal projectile plane at a top side in which a projectile axis is positioned, wherein a projectile moves within the horizontal projectile plane and along the projectile axis during firing and arming of the crossbow, wherein the projectile is fired from a front end of the first stock portion, a drawstring hub rotatable about a central axis in a first direction and a second direction, the central axis being perpendicular to the projectile axis, the drawstring hub being configured to be connected to a drawstring at a first end and a second end, the drawstring traveling at least partially perpendicular to the projectile axis between the first and the second ends, the drawstring being movable within the projectile plane during firing and arming of the crossbow, wherein movement of the drawstring away from the drawstring hub corresponds with rotation of the drawstring hub in the first direction, and wherein movement of the drawstring toward the drawstring hub corresponds with rotation of the drawstring hub in the second direction, wherein rotation of the drawstring hub in the second direction is powered, and first and second drawstring guides attached to the first stock portion, each guide guiding the drawstring across the projectile axis between the first and second ends of the drawstring, wherein the first and second drawstring guides each include a pulley wheel, wherein the drawstring is guided at least partially around each pulley wheel.

Another aspect is a crossbow including a first stock portion having a stock positioned at a rear end, the first stock portion defining a horizontal projectile plane at a top side in which a projectile axis is positioned, wherein a projectile moves within the horizontal projectile plane and along the projectile axis during firing and arming of the crossbow, wherein the projectile is fired from a front end of the first stock portion, a drawstring hub rotatable about a central axis in a first direction and a second direction, the central axis being perpendicular to the projectile axis; a drawstring being connected to the drawstring hub at a first end and a second end, the drawstring traveling at least partially perpendicular to the projectile axis between the first and the second ends, the drawstring being movable within the projectile plane during firing and arming of the crossbow, wherein movement of the drawstring away from the drawstring hub corresponds with rotation of the drawstring hub in the first direction, and wherein movement of the drawstring toward the drawstring hub corresponds with rotation of the drawstring hub in the second direction, a latch configured to hold the drawstring at the rear end of the first stock portion when the crossbow is drawn, a trigger assembly in communication with the latch, wherein upon activation of the trigger assembly when firing, the trigger assembly moves the latch and the drawstring is released, first and second flexible limbs each having a first end attached to the first stock portion, wherein the first and second flexible limbs are in an unloaded position when the crossbow is undrawn and in a loaded positioned when the crossbow is drawn, first and second power cables each having first and second ends, wherein the first ends of the first and second power cables are attached to the drawstring hub, wherein the second end of the first power cable is attached to second end of the first limb and the second end of the second power cable is attached to second end of the second limb, wherein upon rotation in the first direction of the drawstring hub, the first and second power cables draw the second end of each first and second flexible limb closer to the drawstring hub, and first and second drawstring guides attached to the first stock portion, each guide guiding the drawstring across the projectile axis between the first and second ends of the drawstring.

A further aspect is a crossbow having a first stock portion including a first stock portion and a second first stock portion that are detachably coupled to one another via a fastening mechanism.

A variety of additional aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. The aspects can relate to individual features and to combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventive concepts upon which the embodiments disclosed herein are based.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings are illustrative of particular embodiments of the present disclosure and therefore do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. The drawings are not to scale and are intended for use in conjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description. Embodiments of the present disclosure will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings, wherein like numerals denote like elements.

FIG. 1 is a left side perspective view of a crossbow according to the principles of the present disclosure; in particular FIG. 1 illustrates the crossbow in a drawn position.

FIG. 2 is a left side view of the crossbow of FIG. 1 in the drawn position.

FIG. 3 is a left side cross section view of the crossbow of FIG. 1 in the drawn position.

FIG. 4 is a right side perspective view of a portion of the crossbow of FIG. 1 in the drawn position.

FIG. 5 is a left side perspective view of another portion of the crossbow of FIG. 1 in the drawn position.

FIG. 6 is a right side perspective view of the portion of the crossbow of FIG. 5 in the drawn position.

FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the portion of the crossbow of FIG. 5 in the drawn position.

FIG. 8 is a top side view of the portion of the crossbow of FIG. 5 in the drawn position.

FIG. 9 is a top side view of another portion of the crossbow of FIG. 1 in the drawn position.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another portion of the crossbow of FIG. 1 in the drawn position.

FIG. 11 is a left side perspective view of the crossbow of FIG. 1 in an undrawn position.

FIG. 12 is a right side perspective view of the crossbow of FIG. 11 in the undrawn position.

FIG. 13 is a top side view of the crossbow of FIG. 11 in the undrawn position.

FIG. 14 is a left side cross section view of the crossbow of FIG. 11 in the undrawn position.

FIG. 15 is a left side perspective view of a portion of the crossbow of FIG. 11 in the undrawn position.

FIG. 16 is another left side perspective view of a portion of the crossbow of FIG. 11 in the undrawn position.

FIG. 17 is a right side perspective view of a portion of the crossbow of FIG. 11 in the undrawn position.

FIG. 18 is a left side perspective view of a crossbow according to the principles of the present disclosure; in particular FIG. 18 illustrates the crossbow in a drawn position.

FIG. 19 is a left side perspective view of a portion of the crossbow of FIG. 18 in the drawn position.

FIG. 20 is a right side perspective view the portion of the crossbow of FIG. 19 in the drawn position.

FIG. 21 is a top side view of the portion of the crossbow of FIG. 19 in the drawn position.

FIG. 22 is another left side perspective view of a portion of the crossbow of FIG. 18 in the drawn position.

FIG. 23 is a left side perspective view of the crossbow of FIG. 18 in an undrawn position.

FIG. 24 is a right side perspective view the portion of the crossbow of FIG. 23 in the undrawn position.

FIG. 25 is a left side perspective view of the portion of the crossbow of FIG. 23 in the drawn position.

FIG. 26 is a left side perspective view of another portion of the crossbow of FIG. 18 in the drawn position.

FIG. 27 is a left side perspective view of a crossbow according to the principles of the present disclosure; in particular FIG. 27 illustrates the crossbow in a drawn position.

FIG. 28 is a left side view of the crossbow of FIG. 27 in the drawn position.

FIG. 29 is a top view of the crossbow of FIG. 27 in the drawn position.

FIG. 30 is a left perspective view of a portion of the crossbow of FIG. 27 in the drawn position.

FIG. 31 is a right perspective view of a portion of the crossbow of FIG. 27 in the drawn position.

FIG. 32 is a right perspective view of a portion of the crossbow of FIG. 27 in the drawn position.

FIG. 33 is a left side perspective view of the crossbow of FIG. 27 in an undrawn position.

FIG. 34 is a right perspective view of a portion of the crossbow of FIG. 33 in the undrawn position.

FIG. 35 is a front perspective view of the portion of the crossbow of FIG. 33 in the undrawn position.

FIG. 36 is a right front perspective view of the portion of the crossbow of FIG. 33 in the undrawn position.

FIG. 37 is a right side view of a crossbow according to the principles of the present disclosure; in particular FIG. 37 illustrates the crossbow assembled and in an undrawn position.

FIG. 38 is a right side view of the crossbow of FIG. 37 partially disassembled and in an undrawn position.

FIG. 39 is a right side view of the crossbow of FIG. 37 disassembled and in an undrawn position.

FIG. 40 is a right side perspective view of the disassembled crossbow of FIG. 39.

FIG. 41 is a right side perspective view of a portion of the disassembled crossbow of FIG. 39.

FIG. 42 is right side perspective view of another portion of the disassembled crossbow of FIG. 39.

FIG. 43 is a top view of the disassembled crossbow of FIG. 39.

FIG. 44 is a top view of the disassembled crossbow of FIG. 39 arranged in a stacked orientation for transport or storage.

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the disassembled crossbow of FIG. 39 arranged in a stacked orientation for transport or storage.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference to numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the claims attached hereto. Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are not intended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possible embodiments for the appended claims.

A crossbow disclosed herein can be used in different arrangements to improve efficiency, improve balance, improve safety, shoot different projectiles, and improve accuracy. The crossbow may include one or more of the following features: 1) forward vertically facing limbs mounted parallel to a draw string with guide pulleys; 2) rear facing parallel limbs with guide pulleys; and 3) forward facing parallel limbs with guide pulleys. With these features, the crossbow has a compact design, is accurate, is efficient, and is safe to operate. Also disclosed herein, a crossbow having any one of these features can be a takedown crossbow comprised of two separate first stock portion portions that can be repeatedly detached to facilitate transport and storage, for example, and securely re-attached via a fastening mechanism.

FIGS. 1-17 illustrate an example of a crossbow 100 according to the principles of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the crossbow 100. FIG. 2 shows a side view of the crossbow 100. FIG. 3 shows a perspective longitudinal cross section of the crossbow 100.

The crossbow 100 is configured to fire a projectile 101, such as an arrow. The crossbow 100 includes a first stock portion 102, a drawstring 104, a first limb 106, a second limb 108, a drawstring hub 110, a first drawstring wheel 111, a second drawstring wheel 113, a first power wheel 112, a second power wheel 114, a first power cable 116, a second power cable 118, a first drawstring guide 119, a second drawstring guide 121, a latch 120, and a trigger assembly 122. The crossbow also can include an arrow rest 124, an accessory rail 126, a grip 128, a trigger guard 130, a foot stirrup 132, and a stock 134.

The crossbow 100 is shown in a drawn position where the drawstring 104 is positioned at a rear end 105 of the first stock portion 102. When fired, the projectile 101 moves within a horizontal projectile plane and along a projectile axis A, and the crossbow 100 fires the projectile 101 from a front end 103 of the crossbow 100. In some examples, the crossbow 100 is generally symmetrical about the projectile axis A.

The first stock portion 102 can be constructed of a composite, wood, metal, or like material. In some examples, the first stock portion 102 is a singular unibody component. In other examples, the first stock portion 102 has a multiple piece construction. In some examples, the first stock portion 102 is configured to include a variety of different mounting points for various module accessories such as flashlights, sighting accessories, or other attachments.

The drawstring 104 is connected to the drawstring hub 110 at a first end 136 and at a second end 138 of the drawstring. The drawstring 104 travels at least partially perpendicular to the projectile axis A between the first and the second ends 136, 138. The drawstring 104 is movable within the projectile plane during firing and arming of the crossbow 100. To draw to the drawstring 104, the crossbow 100 is stabilized and the drawstring 104 is pulled to the rear end 105 of the first stock portion 102. An arming device, the user's arm, or other like mechanism can be used to draw the drawstring 104.

In some examples, an arming device can be a crank and a hook. In some examples, the arming device is located in the first stock portion 102 of the crossbow and connectable to the drawstring 104 for drawing the drawstring 104 to the rear end 105 of the first stock portion 102.

Movement of the drawstring 104 away from the drawstring hub 110 corresponds with rotation of the drawstring hub 110 in a first direction R1, and movement of the drawstring 104 toward the drawstring hub corresponds with rotation of the drawstring hub 110 in a second direction R2. Rotation of the drawstring hub 110 in the second direction R2 is powered. In some examples, the rotation of the drawstring hub 110 is powered by the first and second limbs 106, 108. In some examples, the rotation of the drawstring hub 110 can be powered by a power source such as, but not limited to, a spring, a motor, a piston, or like device. In some examples, rotation of the drawstring hub 110 in the first direction R1 is powered. In some examples, rotation of the drawstring hub 110 in the second direction R2 is powered by the limbs 106 and 108. The drawstring 104 can be constructed of traditional bowstring material such as, but not limited to, composite and/or natural fibers.

As shown in FIG. 2, the drawstring 104 is movable along a power stroke PS when arming and firing the crossbow 100. The power stroke PS is defined by the distance between an undrawn position UD and a drawn position D of the drawstring 104.

The limbs 106 and 108 are flexible and are attached to the first stock portion 102 at first ends 140, 142 of the limbs, at main supports 144, 146, and attached to the power cables 116, 118 at second ends 148, 150 of the limbs. In some examples, the limbs 106, 108 are elastic and spring-like in nature. In some examples, the limbs 106, 108 are also supported at mid supports 152, 154 between the main supports 144, 146 and the second ends 148, 150. In some examples, the mid supports 152, 154 are used as fulcrums to bend the limbs 106 and 108, and the limbs 106 and 108 are not attached to the mid supports 152, 154.

In some examples, the limbs 106, 108 extend in an upward direction from a top side 155 of the first stock portion 102 and in a forward direction toward the front end 103 of the first stock portion 102. It is considered within the scope of the present disclosure that the limbs 106, 108 may be positioned in a variety of different ways relative to the first stock portion 102.

The limbs 106 and 108 are shown as being vertical and generally perpendicular to the horizontal projectile plane that contains the projectile axis A. The limbs 106, 108 are positioned at either side of the first stock portion 102 such that the projectile 101 passes between the limbs 106, 108. In some examples, the limbs 106 and 108 are oriented to create a very narrow crossbow 100 in either the drawn or the undrawn position. In some examples, a width of between the limbs 106, 108 is less than or equal to 8.0 inches. In some examples, the width is less than or equal to 3.5 inches and preferably around 3.0 inches.

The first and second limbs 106, 108 are in an unloaded position (FIG. 11-12) when the crossbow is undrawn and in a loaded positioned (FIGS. 1-2) when the crossbow 100 is drawn. Rotation of the drawstring hub 110 in the second direction R2 is powered by the first and second flexible limbs 106, 108. During drawing, the limbs 106, 108 are drawn down by the power cables 116, 118, thus letting out drawstring 104 until the desired power stroke PS is reached and the drawstring 104 is held near the rear end 105 by the latch 120. When the crossbow 100 is fired from the drawn position, a tension force in the limbs 106, 108 moves the drawstring 104 toward the front end 103 of the first stock portion 102. The draw weight, or force required to arm the crossbow 100, relies on the type of limbs used. In some examples, a draw weight of the crossbow is between 5 lbs and 400 lbs and preferably about 150 lbs.

The drawstring hub 110 includes the first and second drawstring wheels 111, 113 and the first and second power wheels 112, 114. In some examples, the first and second drawstring wheels 111, 113 are integrally formed with the drawstring hub 110. In some examples, the first and second drawstring wheels 111, 113 and the first and second power wheels 112, 114 rotate with one another. The drawstring hub 110 is rotatably mounted to the first stock portion 102 at the front end 103. The drawstring hub 110 is rotatable about a central axis C in the first and second directions R1, R2. In some examples, the central axis C is perpendicular to the projectile axis A. The first and second power cables 116, 118 and the drawstring 104 are connected to the drawstring hub 110, specifically to the first and second drawstring wheels 111, 113, and can cause rotation thereof. In some examples, the first and second power cables 116, 118 are wound around the first and second drawstring wheels 111, 113 when drawing the crossbow 100. In some examples, the first and second power cables 116, 118 are unwound from the first and second drawstring wheels 111, 113 when firing the crossbow 100. In some examples, the drawstring 104 is unwound from the drawstring hub 110 when drawing the crossbow 100. In some examples, the drawstring 104 is wound around the drawstring hub 110 when drawing the crossbow 100.

The first and second power wheels 112 and 114 are mounted to the drawstring hub 110 so as to rotate with the drawstring hub 110. In some examples, the first and second power wheels 112, 114 are integrally formed with the drawstring hub 110. In some examples, the first and second power wheels 112, 114 are separate from, but mounted to, the drawstring hub 110. In some examples, the first and second power wheels 112, 114 have diameters greater than a diameter of the drawstring hub 110. In some examples, the power wheels 112, 114 have diameters between 1.0 inches and 12 inches. In some examples, the power wheels 112, 114 have diameters of 5.0 inches.

The first end 136 of the drawstring 104 is attached to the first power wheel 112 and the second end 138 of the drawstring 104 is attached to the second power wheel 114. In some examples, when undrawn, the drawstring 104 is wrapped around the first and second power wheels less than or equal to one time. In some examples, the first and second power wheels 112 and 114 can have circumferential grooves to guide the drawstring 104 therein.

The first and second drawstring guides 119, 121 are attached to the first stock portion 102. Each guide 119, 121 guides the drawstring 104 across the projectile axis A between the first and second ends 136, 138 of the drawstring 104. In some examples, the first and second drawstring guides 119, 121 help to maintain the timing of either side of the drawstring 104 during firing so that the drawstring 104 propels the projectile 101 in an even manner. Further, because firing the crossbow 100 is a violent act, the first and second drawstring guides 119, 121 help to keep the fast moving drawstring 104 aligned to allow the drawstring 104 to be wound around the first and second power wheels 112 and 114. The first and second drawstring guides 119, 121 will be discussed further herein.

The latch 120 is configured to hold the drawstring 104 at the rear end 105 of the first stock portion when the crossbow 100 is drawn. In some examples, the latch 120 can interface with a shuttle attached to the drawstring 104.

The trigger assembly 122 is in communication with the latch 120 so that upon activation of the trigger assembly 122 when firing (e.g., pulling the trigger toward the rear end 105 of the first stock portion 102) the trigger assembly 122 moves the latch 120 and the drawstring 104 is released and free to travel toward the front end 103 of the first stock portion 102. The trigger assembly 122 can include an auto safety and anti-dry fire protection.

The arrow rest 124 is mounted to the front end 103 of the first stock portion 102 and includes an opening 125 that is aligned with projectile axis A. In some examples, the arrow rest 124 includes bristles positioned within the opening 125 for supporting the projectile 101.

The accessory rail 126 is positioned at the top side 155 of the first stock portion 102. In some examples, the rail can be a picatinny rail. In some examples, the accessory rail 126 is configured to receive a sighting apparatus, such as a scope. In some examples, the accessory rail 126 is positioned between 5.0 inches and 30 inches from an end of the stock 134. In some examples, the accessory rail 126 is adjustable. In some examples, the accessory rail 126 is positioned above the latch 120, so when drawn, the drawstring 104 is positioned below the accessory rail 126. In some examples, when drawn, the drawstring 104 passes at least partially through the accessory rail 126.

The grip 128 and the trigger guard 130 help to aid a user of the crossbow 100. The grip 128 provides a point of support for the user of the crossbow 100 and can be held by the user's hand, including when operating the trigger assembly 122. The grip 128 assists the user in stabilizing the crossbow 100 during firing and handling. In some embodiments, the grip 128 is mounted to the first stock portion 102.

The foot stirrup 132 can optionally be used by the user to brace the crossbow 100 when drawing the crossbow 100. In some examples, a user can place a foot in the foot stirrup 132 during drawing of the crossbow 100.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a portion of the crossbow 100 with the drawstring 104 drawn. The first stock portion 102 and second limb 108 are not shown for simplicity.

FIG. 5 shows a rear perspective view of a portion of the crossbow 100 with the drawstring 104 drawn. FIG. 6 shows another rear perspective view of a portion of the crossbow 100 with the drawstring 104 drawn. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of a portion of the crossbow 100 with the drawstring 104 drawn.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show top views of a portion of the crossbow 100 with the drawstring 104 drawn. As shown, the central axis C is perpendicular to the projectile axis A.

The first and second drawstring guides 119, 121 each include a pulley wheel 156, 158 respectively. The drawstring 104 is guided at least partially around each pulley wheel 156, 158. In some examples, each pulley wheel 156, 158 is rotatable and includes a bearing. In other examples, each pulley wheel 156, 158 is fixed and not rotatable. In other examples, each pulley wheel 156, 158 is only a portion of a full wheel. In some examples, each pulley wheel 156, 158 includes a groove within which the drawstring 104 is positioned and moves. In some examples each pulley wheel 156, 158 is mounted to a first stock portion 160, 162. In some examples, each pulley wheel 156, 158 is spring loaded with respect to the first stock portions 160, 162. In some examples, the pulley wheels 156, 158 each have a diameter between 0.125 inches and 6.00 inches. In some examples, the diameter of the pulley wheels 156, 158 is 0.80 inches.

In order to maintain a clear path for the projectile 101 and maintain a narrow crossbow profile, the pulley wheels 156, 158 are separated from one another at a distance X1. In some examples, the distance X1 is between 0.5 inches and 8.0 inches. In some examples, the distance X1 is 1.5 inches.

By guiding the drawstring 104 with first and second drawstring guides 119, 121, between the first and second ends 136, 138 of the drawstring 104, left-to-right movement of the projectile 101 is reduced. And because a single drawstring 104 is used, the rate at which the drawstring 104 is wound around the drawstring hub 110, specifically the power wheels 112, 114, when the crossbow 100 is fired is equalized, thus reducing potential timing issues with drawstring 104 winding around the power wheels 112, 114.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view a portion of the crossbow 100 with the drawstring 104 drawn. As shown, the power cables 116, 118 include first ends 164, 166 and second ends 168, 170. The first ends 164, 166 are secured to the first and second drawstring wheels 111, 113 and the second ends 168, 170 are secured to the first and second limbs 106, 108. In some examples, the power cables 116, 118 can be wound around the first and second limbs 106, 108. As noted above, the first and second ends 136, 138 of the drawstring 104 are attached to the first and second power wheels 112, 114, respectively.

FIGS. 11-17 show the crossbow 100 with the drawstring 104 undrawn. When undrawn, the drawstring 104 remains biased and tensioned around the first and second drawstring guides 119, 121, thus ensuring a lack of slack of the drawstring 104. In some examples, the drawstring 104 is biased to resist arming or letting the drawstring unwind from the power wheels 112, 114 when the drawstring 104 is undrawn. This is due to the fact that the first and second limbs 106, 108 remain in partial tension when the drawstring 104 is undrawn. This partial tension applies a force to the power cables 116, 118 which in turn apply a force on the drawstring hub 110 to urge the drawstring hub 110 in the second direction R2. Such a force is transferred to the power wheels 112, 114 because the power wheels 112, 114 are attached to the drawstring hub 110 and rotate with the drawstring hub 110. Because the drawstring 104 has first and second ends 136, 138 attached to the first and second power wheels 112, 114, respectively, the drawstring 104 is pulled to the front end 103 of the first stock portion 102 against the first and second drawstring guides 119, 121. The first and second drawstring guides 119, 121 guide the drawstring 104 across the top side 155 of the first stock portion 102 and prevent the drawstring 104 from being further wound around the power wheels 112, 114. In some examples, when undrawn, the drawstring 104 is wrapped less than or equal to one time around the power wheels 112, 114.

A crossbow 200 is shown drawn in FIGS. 18-22, according to one example of the present disclosure. The crossbow 200 is substantially similar to the crossbow 100 discussed above. The crossbow 200 differs from crossbow 100 by having rearward facing parallel first and second limbs 206, 208.

The first and second limbs 206, 208 can either be a single limb or multiple limbs, as shown. In some examples, the limbs 206, 208 are elastic and spring-like in nature. The limbs 206 and 208 are attached to a first stock portion 202 at a mount 207. In some examples, the limbs 206, 208 are also supported at mid supports 252, 254 between main supports 244, 246. In some examples, the mid supports 252, 254 are used as fulcrums to bend the limbs 206, 208 and the limbs 206, 208 are not attached to the mid supports 252, 254.

The first and second limbs 206, 208 are attached to power cables 216, 218. The power cables 216, 218 are then directed towards power cable guides 233, 235. In the depicted example, the power cable guides 233, 235 are independently rotatable stacked wheels mounted to first stock portion 202. Like above, the power cables 216, 218 include first ends 264, 266 and second ends 268, 270. The first ends 264, 266 are secured to the first and second limbs 206, 208 and the second ends 268, 270 are secured to first and second drawstring wheels 211, 213 of a drawstring hub 210. In some examples, the power cables 216, 218 can be wound around the first and second limbs 206, 208. Like above, first and second ends 236, 238 of a drawstring 204 are attached to first and second power wheels 212, 214, respectively. When the drawstring 204 is drawn, first and second limbs 206, 208 are flexed by rotation of the drawstring hub 110, and therefore by rotation of the power wheels 212, 214.

First and second drawstring guides 219, 221, which are substantially similar to the first and second drawstring guides 119, 121 described above, are attached to the first stock portion 202 and each guide guides the drawstring 204 across the projectile axis A between the first and second ends 236, 238 of the drawstring 204. The first and second drawstring guides 219, 221 each include a pulley wheel 256, 258 mounted to a first stock portion 260, 262.

FIGS. 23-26 depict the crossbow 200 with the drawstring 204 undrawn. When undrawn, the drawstring 204 remains biased and tensioned around the first and second drawstring guides 219, 221, thus ensuring a lack of slack of the drawstring 204.

A crossbow 300 is shown drawn in FIGS. 27-32, according to one example of the present disclosure. The crossbow 300 is substantially similar to the crossbows 100, 200 discussed above. The crossbow 300 differs from crossbows 100, 200 by having forward facing parallel first and second limbs 306, 308. First and second limbs 306 and 308 are attached to a first stock portion 302 at a mount 307 and, when a drawstring 304 is drawn, first and second limbs 306, 308 are flexed by rotation of a drawstring hub 310 and therefore the power wheels 312, 314. Like above, first and second ends 336, 338 of the drawstring 304 are attached to first and second power wheels 312, 314, respectively. The first and second limbs 306, 308 are attached to power cables 316, 318 and the power cables 316, 318 are then directed toward power cable guides 333, 335. The power cables 316, 318 are secured to the first and second limbs 306, 308 and to first and second drawstring wheels 311, 313 of the drawstring hub 310. First and second drawstring guides 319, 321, which are substantially similar to the first and second drawstring guides 119, 219/219, 221 described above, are attached to the first stock portion 302 and each guide guides the drawstring 304.

The power cable guides 333, 335 are positioned nearer a front end 303 of the first stock portion 302 than the mount 307. In the depicted examples of FIG. 28, the mount 307 is connected to the first stock portion 302 below a top side 355.

FIGS. 33-36 depict the crossbow 300 with the drawstring 304 undrawn. When undrawn, the drawstring 304 remains biased and tensioned around the first and second drawstring guides 319, 321, thus ensuring a lack of slack of the drawstring 304.

A crossbow 400 is shown drawn in FIGS. 37-45, according to one example of the present disclosure. The crossbow 400 is substantially similar to the crossbow 100 discussed above. The crossbow 400 differs from crossbow 100 by having a first stock portion 401 comprised of a first portion of the first stock portion 402 and a second portion of the first stock portion 404 that are detachably coupled to one another via a fastening mechanism 406 to enable disassembly of the crossbow 400 when not in use. FIG. 37 is a right side view of the crossbow 400 assembled and in an undrawn position. FIG. 38 is a right side view of the crossbow 400 partially disassembled and in an undrawn position. FIG. 39 is a right side view of the crossbow 400 disassembled and in an undrawn position.

The fastening mechanism 406 can be any type of mechanism capable of repeatedly enabling detachment and secure re-attachment of the two first stock portion portions 402, 404. In some examples, the fastening mechanism 406 can be a dovetail joint or a sliding joint. In other examples, the fastening mechanism 406 can be a pivot lock joint as shown in FIGS. 37-45. For example, the fastening mechanism 406 includes a male pivot 408 and a female pivot 410, as well as a male lock 412, a female lock 414, and a lock knob bolt 416. Positions at which the first stock portion portions 402, 404 attach and detach from one another via the fastening mechanism 406 are selected to prevent disruption or interference with the mechanical assemblies of the crossbow 400 when the crossbow 400 is disassembled.

The first portion of the first stock portion 402 is a rearward portion of the first stock portion 401 comprising a first end 418 and a second end 420. The first end 418 of the first portion of the first stock portion 402 is at a furthest rearward position of the first stock portion 401 (e.g., a rear end of the first stock portion 401) and includes a stock 426. The second end 420 of the first portion of the first stock portion 402 includes the male pivot 408 and the female lock 414 of the fastening mechanism 406. The second end 420 of the first portion of the first stock portion 402 is positioned forward from a latch 428 and a trigger assembly 430 of the crossbow 400. As previously discussed, the latch 428 and the trigger assembly 430 are in communication so that upon activation of the trigger assembly 430 when firing (e.g., pulling the trigger toward the rear end of the first stock portion 401) the trigger assembly 430 moves the latch 428 causing a drawstring held by the latch 428 to be released and free to travel toward the front end of the first stock portion 401. Thus, by positioning the second end 420 of the first portion of the first stock portion 402 forward from the latch 428 and the trigger assembly 430, the communication between the latch 428 and the trigger assembly 430 and their associated mechanical assemblies are not disrupted or otherwise interfered with when the crossbow 400 is disassembled by detaching the first portion of the first stock portion 402 from the second portion of the first stock portion 404.

The second portion of the first stock portion 404 is a forward portion of the first stock portion 401 comprising a first end 422 and a second end 424. The first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404 includes the female pivot 410 and the male lock 412 of the fastening mechanism 406. The first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404 is positioned rearward from a location on the first stock portion 401 where the limbs 432 of the crossbow 400 attach to the first stock portion 401. In some examples, the main supports 434 that attach the limbs 432 to the first stock portion 401 can be located proximate to the female pivot 410 and male lock 412 at the first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404. The second end 424 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404 is at a furthest forward position of the first stock portion 401 (e.g., a front end of the first stock portion 401). By positioning the first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404 rearward from where the limbs 432 attach to the first stock portion 401, and thus also rearward from other components, such as the drawstring hub, drawstring wheels, power wheels, power cables, and drawstring guides discussed with reference to crossbow 100, these components and their associated mechanical assemblies are not disrupted or otherwise interfered with when the crossbow 400 is disassembled by detaching the first portion of the first stock portion 402 from the second portion of the first stock portion 404. For example, the second portion of the first stock portion 404 remains in an undrawn position and fully preloaded when disassembled from the first portion of the first stock portion 402.

As shown in FIG. 37, when the crossbow 400 is in an assembled and undrawn position: the male pivot 408 on the second end 420 of the first portion of the first stock portion 402 is mated with the female pivot 410 on the first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404; the female lock 414 on the second end 420 of the first portion of the first stock portion 402 is mated with the male lock 412 on the first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404; and the lock knob bolt 416 is inserted through aligned apertures of the mated female lock 414 and male lock 412 and threaded or otherwise locked to secure the first portion of the first stock portion 402 to the second portion of the first stock portion 404.

To disassemble the crossbow 400 in an undrawn position, the lock knob bolt 416416 is unthreaded or otherwise unlocked and removed from apertures of the mated female lock 414 and male lock 412. The mate alignment between the female lock 414 and male lock 412 is then broken by providing a downward force on the second portion of the first stock portion 404 leaving the crossbow 400 partially disassembled, as shown in FIG. 38. The downward force can include a passive, gravitational force. Additionally, the downward force can include an active application of force. For example, a user of the crossbow 400 can stabilize the first portion of the first stock portion 402 as the user applies a downward force to the second portion of the first stock portion 404 to break the mate alignment between the female lock 414 and male lock 412.

To fully disassemble the crossbow 400 in the undrawn position, continued downward force can be provided to the second portion of the first stock portion 404 to break the mate alignment between the female pivot 410 and the male pivot 408. For example, the user of the crossbow 400 can continue to stabilize the first portion of the first stock portion 402 as the user provides a further downward force to the second portion of the first stock portion 404 to break the mate alignment between the female pivot 410 and the male pivot 408. Once both mate alignments are broken, the first portion of the first stock portion 402 and the second portion of the first stock portion 404 are completely detached from one another and the crossbow 400 is disassembled, as shown in FIG. 39. In some examples, after the crossbow 400 is partially disassembled as shown in FIG. 38 or disassembled as shown in FIG. 39, the lock knob bolt 416 may then be inserted through the apertures of the male lock 412 and secured or otherwise locked on the first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404 to prevent the lock knob bolt 416 from being lost as the disassembled crossbow 400 is being transported and/or stored, for example.

FIGS. 40-43 provide additional views of the disassembled crossbow 400 of FIG. 39. FIG. is a right side perspective view of the disassembled crossbow 400 of FIG. 39. FIG. 41 is a right side perspective view of a portion of the disassembled crossbow of FIG. 39. The portion includes the second end 420 of the first portion of the first stock portion 402 and the first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404, with a focus on the fastening mechanism components of the first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404. FIG. 42 is right side perspective view of another portion of the disassembled crossbow of FIG. 39. This other portion includes the second end 420 of the first portion of the first stock portion 402 and the first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404, with a focus on the fastening mechanism components of the second end 420 of the first portion of the first stock portion 402. FIG. 43 is a top view of the disassembled crossbow 400 of FIG. 39 that emphasizes the narrow design of the crossbow 400 and the further compactness that can be achieved by disassembling into the two first stock portion portions 402, 404.

When disassembled from one another, the first portion of the first stock portion 402 and the second portion of the first stock portion 404 can be arranged in a variety of stacked or nested orientations for shipping, transporting, and/or storing. The manner in which the first and second portions of the first stock portion 402, 404 are arranged can also protect sensitive components of the crossbow 400, such as a sighting apparatus. FIG. 44 is a top view of the disassembled crossbow 400 of FIG. 39 arranged in a stacked orientation for transport or storage. FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the disassembled crossbow 400 of FIG. 39 arranged in a stacked orientation for transport or storage. In FIGS. 44 and 45, a container 440 holding the disassembled crossbow 400 in the stacked or nested form is a four-sided shipping box, for example. However, for illustration purposes, one side of the container 440 has been removed to show how the disassembled crossbow 400 is arranged therein. In FIG. 44, a top of the container 440 has been removed, and in FIG. 45 a side of the container 440 has been removed.

The overall size of the disassembled crossbow 400 in stacked or nested form is significantly more compact than conventional crossbows having break down capabilities. For example, the disassembled crossbow 400 in stacked or nested form can fit within a container, such as the container 440, that has a length (L) between about 10 to 24 inches, a width (W) between about 4 to 20 inches, and a height (h) between about 3 to 8 inches.

FIGS. 37-45 have illustrated the crossbow 400 having the two detachably coupled first stock portion portions 402, 404 as being substantially similar to crossbow 100 drawn in FIGS. 1-17 that has forward vertically facing limbs 106, 108. In other examples, the crossbow 400 can be substantially similar to the crossbow 200 drawn in FIGS. 18-26 that has the rearward facing parallel first and second limbs 206, 208. In further examples, the crossbow 400 can be substantially similar to the crossbow 300 drawn in FIGS. 27-36 that has the forward facing parallel first and second limbs 306, 308. In each of these alternative examples, positions at which the first stock portion portions 402, 404 attach and detach from one another via the fastening mechanism 406 can be selected based on the particular configuration of the crossbow 200 or the crossbow 300 to prevent disruption or interference with the mechanical assemblies of the crossbow 200 or the crossbow 300, respectively, when disassembled. For example, for both crossbow 200 and crossbow 300, the second end 420 of the first portion of the first stock portion 402 can be positioned forward from the latch and trigger assembly. For crossbow 200, the first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404 can be positioned rearward of the power cable guides 233, 235. For crossbow 300, the first end 422 of the second portion of the first stock portion 404 can be positioned rearward of the mount 307 to which the limbs 306, 308 attach.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the claims attached hereto. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize various modifications and changes that may be made without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A crossbow comprising: a stock;a projectile plane defining a projectile axis within the projectile plane;a vertical limb having a first end and a second end, the first end coupled to the stock by a main support positioned vertically below the projectile axis, the second end positioned vertically above the projectile plane;a hub rotatably mounted to the stock and including a first portion and a second portion positioned axially between the stock and the first portion, wherein the first portion is operatively coupled with the vertical limb; anda mid support coupled to the stock, the mid support configured to support the vertical limb between the first end and the second end.

2. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the mid support is coupled to the stock vertically above the main support and below vertically below the projectile plane.

3. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the mid support is positioned horizontally adjacent to the projectile axis.

4. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein an entirety of the mid support is positioned vertically below the projectile plane.

5. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein, during operation of the crossbow, the hub is configured to rotate such that the second end of the vertical limb moves closer to the hub.

6. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein, during operation of the crossbow, the hub is configured to rotate such that the vertical limb moves in a vertical direction.

7. The crossbow of claim 1, comprising: a drawstring configured to move along the projectile axis between a rest position and a drawn position, the drawstring operatively coupled with the second portion of the hub;wherein the first portion of the hub is operatively coupled with the vertical limb via a cable;wherein, during operation of the crossbow, the drawstring is configured to move from the rest position to the drawn position such that the hub winds the cable.

8. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein, during operation of the crossbow, the hub configured to rotate about a central axis that is perpendicular to the projectile axis.

9. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the hub has a first diameter and the second portion of the hub has a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter, the first portion configured to engage a first cable, the second portion configured to engage a second cable.

10. The crossbow of claim 9, wherein the first cable is a power cable, the power cable received in the first portion and operatively coupled with the second end of the vertical limb.

11. The crossbow of claim 1, further comprising a drawstring guide mounted to the stock and configured to rotate about a vertical guide axis.

12. The crossbow of claim 11, further comprising: a drawstring movable between a rest position and a drawn position;wherein, during operation of the crossbow, the drawstring is configured to extend from the second portion of the hub to the drawstring guide and between an interior surface of the vertical limb and the projectile axis when the drawstring in the drawn position.

13. A crossbow comprising: a stock;a projectile plane defining a projectile axis within the projectile plane;a limb having a first end and a second end, the second end positioned vertically above the first end;a hub mounted to the stock and configured to rotate about a central axis, the hub including a portion configured to engage a drawstring;a power cable operatively coupled with the limb proximate the second end;a main support configured to support the first end of the limb; anda mid support coupled to the stock, the mid support configured to support the limb between the first end and the second end;wherein, during operation of the crossbow, the hub is configured to rotate and wind the power cable about the hub, andwherein the portion of the hub is positioned between the limb and the projectile axis.

14. The crossbow of claim 13, wherein the central axis is perpendicular to the projectile axis.

15. The crossbow of claim 13, wherein, during operation of the crossbow, the limb is configured to move vertically without intersecting the projectile plane.

16. The crossbow of claim 13, further comprising: a drawstring guide mounted to the stock and configured to rotate about a guide axis, the guide axis oriented perpendicular to the central axis.

17. The crossbow of claim 16, wherein the drawstring guide is configured to receive the drawstring,wherein, during operation of the crossbow, the drawstring guide is configured to route the drawstring along an interior surface of the limb.

18. A crossbow comprising: a stock;a drawstring;a projectile plane defining a projectile axis within the projectile plane;a limb having a first end and a second end, the second end positioned vertically above the projectile plane;a hub mounted to the stock and configured to rotate about a central axis perpendicular to the projectile axis, the hub including: a first portion having a first diameter, anda second portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter and configured to engage the drawstring; anda power cable coupled with (a) the limb proximate the second end and (b) the first portion of the hub,wherein, during operation of the crossbow, the hub is configured to rotate and wind the power cable about the first portion; andwherein the second portion is positioned between the limb and the projectile axis.

19. The crossbow of claim 18, further comprising: a drawstring guide mounted to the stock and configured to rotate about a guide axis, the guide axis oriented perpendicular to the central axis.