FIELD
The present invention relates to a firearm. More particularly, the present invention relates to an assembly for a firearm.
BACKGROUND
A disassembled barrel assembly 10 of conventional AR15/M16 rifle is shown in FIG. 1. The barrel assembly 10 includes a barrel 15, a gas block 20, a removable barrel extension 25, and a gas tube 30. The removable barrel extension 25 is secured to the barrel 15 by screwing external barrel threads 35 of the barrel 15 into corresponding barrel extension internal threads (not shown) of the barrel extension 25. The removable barrel extension 25 includes an annular bolt recess 40, locking lugs 45 and feed ramps 50.
A bolt carrier group (not shown), according to technology understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art, works in concert with the removable barrel extension 25 to either push a fresh bullet into the firearm chamber or remove an empty bullet cartridge from the firearm chamber (not shown) through the annular bolt recess 40, as would be understood by a person or ordinary skill in the art. Specifically, a bolt (not shown) on the bolt carrier group (not shown) is guided into place and is locked in via the locking lugs 45, as would be understood by a person or ordinary skill in the art. Once the bolt carrier group moves back to the rear of the firearm, the bolt turns and unlocks from the removable barrel extension 25. The cycle restarts and repeats.
When a bullet is fired from the firearm, propellant combustion gas from a bore 55 of the barrel 15 propels the bullets from a read end 54 of the barrel 15 towards an exit end 56 of the barrel 15 (shown in FIG. 2). At least a portion of the combustion gas travels into a combustion gas outlet port 60 formed the barrel 15. Thereafter, the portion of the combustion gas travels into a gas transfer port 65 located in the gas block 20 mounted on top of the barrel 15. From the gas transfer port 65 of the gas block 20, the portion of the combustion gas then travels into a combustion gas inlet port 70 and combustion gas return tube bore 75 of the gas tube 30. The portion of the combustion gas then travels along the bore 75 towards an exit end 76 of the gas tube 30 to cycle the bolt carrier group as known in the art.
The gas tube 30 includes a forward end 77 residing inside an aperture 21 of the gas block 20. Pin 80 is used to couple the gas tube 30 with the gas block 20. The forward end 77 of the gas tube 30 is blocked off as shown so the tube bore 75 of the gas tube 30 is closed off 11 at the forward end 77. Because the forward end 77 of the gas tube 30 is closed off, the combustion gas inlet port 70 is positioned away from the forward end 77 and is in communication with the bore 75.
As known in the art, the gas transfer port 65 of the gas block 20 is formed perpendicular to the bore 55 of the barrel 15. It is further known in the art that the aperture 21 of the gas block 20 is formed perpendicular to the gas transfer port 65 of the gas block 20. Similarly, it is known that the combustion gas outlet port 60 formed the barrel 15 is perpendicular to the bore 55 of the barrel 15.
The features described above are expensive to manufacture and require skill to properly assemble. Therefore, a need exists for a better type of system for firearms.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1 depicts a disassembled barrel assembly as known in the art.
FIG. 2 depicts a cut away view of an assembly as known in the art.
FIG. 3 depicts an assembled view of an upper receiver assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 4 depicts an exploded view of an upper receiver assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 5 depicts a partial view of an upper receiver assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 6A depicts a perspective view of a gas block assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 6B depicts another perspective view of a gas block assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 7 depicts a cutaway, side view of a gas block assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 8 depicts a cutaway, side view of a barrel according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of a gas tube according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 10 depicts another perspective view of a gas tube according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 11 depicts another perspective view of a gas tube according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 12 depicts a partial front view of a gas tube according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 13 depicts a perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 14 depicts another perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 15 depicts a partial perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 16 depicts a cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 17 depicts another cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 18 depicts another cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 19 depicts a perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 20 depicts another perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 21 depicts another perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 22 depicts a cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 23 depicts another cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 24 depicts a perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 25 depicts a partial perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 26 depicts another partial perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 27 depicts a cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 28 depicts another cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 29 depicts a perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 30 depicts a partial perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 31 depicts another partial perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 32 depicts a cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 33 depicts another cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 34 depicts another cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 35 depicts another cutaway, side view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 36 depicts a partial perspective view of a barrel according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 37 depicts a rear view of a barrel according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 38 depicts a partial perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 39 depicts a perspective view of a bolt according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 40 depicts another perspective view of a bolt according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 41 depicts another perspective view of a bolt according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 42 depicts a front view of a bolt according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 43 depicts a side view of a bolt according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 44 depicts another perspective view of a bolt according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 45 depicts a partial perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 46 depicts a partial front view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 47 depicts a partial perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 48 depicts a partial front view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 49 depicts a partial perspective view of a barrel according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 50 depicts another partial perspective view of a barrel according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 51 depicts another partial perspective view of a barrel according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
FIG. 52 depicts a perspective view of an assembly according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
In the following description, like reference numbers are used to identify like elements. Furthermore, the drawings are intended to illustrate major features of exemplary embodiments in a diagrammatic manner. The drawings are not intended to depict every feature of every implementation nor relative dimensions of the depicted elements, and are not drawn to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to clearly describe various specific embodiments disclosed herein. One skilled in the art, however, will understand that the presently claimed invention may be practiced without all of the specific details discussed below. In other instances, well known features have not been described so as not to obscure the invention.
As described herein, the term “pivotally connected” shall be used to describe a situation wherein two or more identified objects are joined together in a manner that allows one or both of the objects to pivot, and/or rotate about or in relation to the other object in either a horizontal or vertical manner.
As described herein, the term “removably coupled” and derivatives thereof shall be used to describe a situation wherein two or more objects are joined together in a non-permanent manner so as to allow the same objects to be repeatedly joined and separated.
Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless limited otherwise, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” and “mounted,” and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings. In addition, the terms “connected” and “coupled” and variations thereof are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.
In addition, as described in subsequent paragraphs, the specific mechanical configurations illustrated in the drawings are intended to exemplify embodiments of the invention and that other alternative mechanical configurations are possible.
While several illustrative embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Such variations and alternative embodiments are contemplated, and can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. The term “plurality” includes two or more referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosure pertains.
Referring to FIGS. 3-5, an upper receiver assembly 100 is shown according to some embodiments presently disclosed. The upper receiver assembly 100 comprises a barrel 115, a hand guard 120 and an upper receiver 125. According to some embodiments the upper receiver 125 is coupled to a lower receiver (not shown). The hand guard 120 may removably encircle the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 3). According to some embodiments the upper receiver 125 is coupled with the barrel 115 as shown in FIG. 5. According to some embodiments the upper receiver 125 is coupled with the barrel 115 with a barrel nut 130 as shown in FIG. 5. According to some embodiments the barrel nut 130 is coupled with the hand guard 120 using, for example, fasteners 135 as shown in FIGS. 3-5.
Referring to FIGS. 3-5, the upper receiver assembly 100 is shown using, for example, a direct impingement system. The upper receiver assembly 100 comprises a gas block assembly 150 in communication with the barrel 115 and a gas tube 155. According to some embodiments, the upper receiver 125 comprises an opening 160 (shown in FIG. 4) to accommodate the gas tube 155.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the upper receiver 125 comprises a bolt carrier assembly 170 (shown in FIG. 4). The bolt carrier assembly 170 is movable between a first (i.e. locked) position and a second (i.e. unlocked) position. The bolt carrier assembly 170 supports and positions a bolt (not shown). The first (locked) position is position in which the bolt carrier 170 has positioned the bolt (not shown) for firing ammunition through the barrel 115. The second (unlocked) position is any position other than the first (locked) position.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the bolt carrier assembly 170 comprises a carrier key 175 coupled with a top portion of the bolt carrier assembly 170. One or more fasteners (not shown) may be used to couple the carrier key 175 with the bolt carrier assembly 170. The one or more fasteners may be a pin, a screw, a set screw, a full dog point set screw, or a dogleg set screw. The carrier key 175 comprises an opening 180 configured to accommodate the gas tube 155.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, at least a portion of compressed gas traveling through the gas tube 155 as described in detail below is configured to move the bolt carrier assembly 170 from the first (locked) position to the second (unlocked) position.
Referring to FIGS. 6A-B and 7-8, the gas block assembly 150 is shown according to some embodiments presently disclosed. The gas block assembly 150 may be used on an auto-loading firearm. According to some embodiments, the gas block assembly 150 is designed to utilize the gas tube 155. It is to be understood that the gas block assembly 150 presently disclosed may be used on other types of firearms, such as those with a gas system which utilizes a piston and cylinder.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas block assembly 150 comprises a main housing 220. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the main housing 220 should be manufactured of a suitable material to withstand the pressure imposed by the propellant gas introduced from a gas port in the firearm barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the main housing 220 (shown in FIGS. 6A-B and 7) is machined or cast of metal or formed using powdered metal technology or manufactured by some other means using a similar strength material.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the housing 220 comprises an aperture 222 configured to accommodate the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas block assembly 150 comprises one or more fasteners (not shown) configured to removably attach the housing 220 to the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the housing 220 is pressure fitted over the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the housing 220 comprises a gas port 225 to allow at least a portion of the compressed gas to exit the barrel 115.
When a bullet is fired from the assembly 100, compressed gas propels the bullets through a barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 8) towards an exit end 235 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 4). At least a portion of the compressed gas travels from the barrel bore 237 into a combustion gas outlet port 240 formed the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 8). Thereafter, the portion of the compressed gas travels into the gas port 225 located in the housing 220 mounted on top of the barrel 115. From the gas port 225 of the housing 220, the portion of the compressed gas then travels into a gas tube bore 250 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIGS. 11-12). The portion of the compressed gas then travels along the bore 250 towards an exit end 255 of the gas tube 155 to cycle the bolt carrier group 170.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 comprises the exit end 255 and a forward end 260. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed between the exit end 255 and the forward end 260.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the forward end 260 comprises a front surface 265 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed in the front surface 265 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed through the front surface 265 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the gas port 225 of the housing 220 into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the barrel bore 237 into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is a counterbore hole comprising an inner surface 280 and 285. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the diameter of the inner surface 280 is larger than the diameter of the inner surface 285. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 comprises a ledge 290 configured to abut the front surface 265 of the has tube 155. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 aligns with the gas tube bore 250.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the combustion gas outlet port 240 is formed at an angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 8). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the combustion gas outlet port 240 is formed at an angle that is less than 90 degrees to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 8). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the combustion gas outlet port 240 is formed at an acute angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 8). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the combustion gas outlet port 240 is formed at a 45-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 8). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the combustion gas outlet port 240 is formed between 10-degree angle and 80-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 8).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is formed at an angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 7). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is formed at an angle that is less than 90 degrees to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 7). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is formed at an acute angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 7). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is formed at a 45-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 7). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is formed between 10-degree angle and 80-degree angle to the barrel bore of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 7).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is formed at an angle to the aperture 222 (shown in FIG. 7). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is formed at an angle that is less than 90 degrees to the aperture (shown in FIG. 7). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is formed at an acute angle to the aperture 222 (shown in FIG. 7). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is formed at a 45-degree angle to the aperture 222 (shown in FIG. 7). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 225 is formed between 10-degree angle and 80-degree angle to the aperture 222 (shown in FIG. 7).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the housing 220 comprises one or more apertures 321 (shown in FIG. 6A-B) configured to accommodate one or more fasteners 323 (shown in FIG. 4). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the forward end 260 of the gas tube 155 comprises a channel 311 (shown in FIGS. 9-10 and 12) configured to accommodate the one or more fasteners 323 (shown in FIG. 4).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the forward end 260 of the gas tube 155 defines a channel 311 (shown in FIGS. 9-10 and 12) configured to accommodate the one or more fasteners 323 (shown in FIG. 4). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the one or more fasteners 323 prevent the gas tube 155 from being removed from the housing 220. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the one or more fasteners 323 prevent the gas tube 155 from being removed out of the gas port 225. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the one or more fasteners 323 are one or more pins.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas block assembly 150 is machined directly into the barrel 115 as shown in FIGS. 13-18. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas block assembly 150 and the barrel 115 form a monolithic structure as shown in FIGS. 13-18.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form a protruding surface 305 as shown in FIGS. 13-18. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form a surface 305 extending away from an outer barrel surface 307 of the barrel 115 as shown in FIGS. 13-18. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 and the surface 305 form a monolithic structure as shown in FIGS. 13-18.
Referring to FIGS. 13-18, the monolithic structure of the barrel 115 together with the surface 305 may be used on an auto-loading firearm. According to some embodiments, the surface 305 is designed to utilize the gas tube 155. It is to be understood that the monolithic structure of the barrel 115 together with the surface 305 presently disclosed may be used on other types of firearms, such as those with a gas system which utilizes a piston and cylinder.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the monolithic structure of the barrel together with the surface 305 comprises a gas port 325 to allow at least a portion of the compressed gas to exit the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 325 is formed through the surface 305 and is in communication with the barrel bore 237.
When a bullet is fired from the assembly 100 utilizing the monolithic structure of the barrel together with the surface 305, compressed gas propels the bullets through a barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 16-18) towards an exit end 235 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 16-18). At least a portion of the compressed gas travels from the barrel bore 237 into the gas port 325 (shown in FIGS. 16-18). From the gas port 325, the portion of the compressed gas then travels into the gas tube bore 250 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIGS. 17-18). The portion of the compressed gas then travels along the bore 250 towards an exit end 255 of the gas tube 155 to cycle the bolt carrier group 170.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the gas port 325 directly into the gas tube bore 250 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIGS. 17-18).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 comprises the exit end 255 and the forward end 260 (shown in FIGS. 9-12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 is a hollow tube (shown in FIGS. 9-12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed between the exit end 255 and the forward end 260. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the forward end 260 comprises the front surface 265 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed in the front surface 265 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed through the front surface 265 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the gas port 325 into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the gas port 325 directly into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the barrel bore 237 into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 325 is a counterbore hole comprising an inner surface 380 and 385. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the diameter of the inner surface 380 is larger than the diameter of the inner surface 385. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 325 comprises a ledge 390 configured to abut the front surface 265 of the has tube 155 (shown in FIGS. 16-18). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 325 aligns with the gas tube bore 250.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 325 is formed at an angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 16). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 325 is formed at an angle that is less than degrees to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 16). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 325 is formed at an acute angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 16). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 325 is formed at a 45-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 16). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 325 is formed between 10-degree angle and 80-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 16).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 comprises one or more apertures 321 (shown in FIG. 16) configured to accommodate one or more fasteners 323 (shown in FIGS. 4 and 15). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the forward end 260 of the gas tube 155 comprises a channel 311 (shown in FIGS. 9-10 and 12) configured to accommodate the one or more fasteners 323 (shown in FIG. 15). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the forward end 260 of the gas tube 155 defines a channel 311 (shown in FIGS. 9-10 and 12) configured to accommodate the one or more fasteners 323 (shown in FIG. 15). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the one or more fasteners 323 prevent the gas tube 155 from being removed from the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the one or more fasteners 323 prevent the gas tube 155 from being removed out of the gas port 325. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the one or more fasteners 323 are one or more pins.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel nut 130 can slide over the gas block assembly 150 as shown in FIGS. 19-21 and be positioned between the gas block assembly 150 and a rear end 230 of the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel nut 130 can slide over the barrel 115 and the protruding surface 305 as shown in FIGS. 19-21 and be positioned between the protruding surface 305 and the rear end 230 of the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel nut 130 can slide over the monolithic structure of the barrel 115 together with the surface 305 as shown in FIGS. 19-21 and be positioned between the surface 305 and the rear end 230 of the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 is positioned in the gas port 325 as shown in the FIGS. 20-21. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 is positioned in the gas port 325 and coupled with the barrel 115 as shown in the FIGS. 20-21. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 is positioned in the gas port 325 as shown in the FIGS. 20-21. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is coupled with the upper receiver 125 using the barrel nut 130 as shown in the FIG. 21.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 comprises a gas port 425 (shown in FIG. 22) to allow at least a portion of the compressed gas to exit the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 425 is formed through the outer barrel surface 307 of the barrel 115 and is in communication with the barrel bore 237.
Referring to FIG. 22, the barrel 115 together with the gas port 425 may be used on an auto-loading firearm. It is to be understood that the structure of the barrel 115 together with the gas port 425 presently disclosed may be used on other types of firearms, such as those with a gas system which utilizes a piston and cylinder.
When a bullet is fired from the assembly 100 utilizing the structure of the barrel 115 together with the gas port 425, compressed gas propels the bullets through the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 22) towards an exit end 235 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 22). At least a portion of the compressed gas travels from the barrel bore 237 into the gas port 425 (shown in FIG. 22). From the gas port 425, the portion of the compressed gas then travels into the gas tube bore 250 of the gas tube 155. The portion of the compressed gas then travels along the bore 250 towards an exit end 255 of the gas tube 155 to cycle the bolt carrier group 170.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the gas port 425 directly into the gas tube bore 250 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIGS. 17-18).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 comprises the exit end 255 and the forward end 260 (shown in FIGS. 9-12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed between the exit end and the forward end 260. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the forward end 260 comprises the front surface 265 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed in the front surface 265 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed through the front surface 265 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the gas port 425 into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the gas port 425 directly into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the barrel bore 237 into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 425 is a counterbore hole comprising an inner surface 480 and 485. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the diameter of the inner surface 480 is larger than the diameter of the inner surface 485. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 425 comprises a ledge 490 configured to abut the front surface 265 of the has tube 155. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 425 aligns with the gas tube bore 250.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 425 is formed at an angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 22). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 425 is formed at an angle that is less than 90 degrees to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 22). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 425 is formed at an acute angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 22). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 425 is formed at a 45-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 22). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 425 is formed between 10-degree angle and 80-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 22). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 425 is formed at a 90-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIG. 23).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 comprises one or more apertures 321 (shown in FIG. 22) configured to accommodate one or more fasteners 323 (shown in FIG. 4). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the forward end 260 of the gas tube 155 comprises a channel 311 (shown in FIGS. 9-10 and 12) configured to accommodate the one or more fasteners 323 (shown in FIG. 4). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the forward end 260 of the gas tube 155 defines a channel 311 (shown in FIGS. 9-10 and 12) configured to accommodate the one or more fasteners 323 (shown in FIG. 4). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the one or more fasteners 323 prevent the gas tube 155 from being removed from the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the one or more fasteners 323 prevent the gas tube 155 from being removed out of the gas port 325. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the one or more fasteners 323 are one or more pins.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form a protruding nozzle 505 as shown in FIGS. 24-33. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form a nozzle 505 extending away from an outer barrel surface 307 of the barrel 115 as shown in FIGS. 24-33. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 and the nozzle 505 form a monolithic structure as shown in FIGS. 24-33. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is a cylindrical tube extending away from an outer barrel surface 307 of the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is a round tube extending away from an outer barrel surface 307 of the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is substantially a cylindrical tube extending away from an outer barrel surface 307 of the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is substantially a round tube extending away from an outer barrel surface 307 of the barrel 115.
Referring to FIGS. 24-33, the monolithic structure of the barrel 115 together with the nozzle 505 may be used on an auto-loading firearm. According to some embodiments, the nozzle 505 is designed to utilize the gas tube 155. It is to be understood that the monolithic structure of the barrel 115 together with the nozzle 505 presently disclosed may be used on other types of firearms, such as those with a gas system which utilizes a piston and cylinder.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the monolithic structure of the barrel 115 together with the nozzle 505 comprises a gas port 525 to allow at least a portion of the compressed gas to exit the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 525 is formed through the nozzle 505 and is in communication with the barrel bore 237.
When a bullet is fired from the assembly 100 utilizing the monolithic structure of the barrel 115 together with the nozzle 505, compressed gas propels the bullets through a barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 24-33) towards an exit end 235 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 24-33). At least a portion of the compressed gas travels from the barrel bore 237 into the gas port 525 (shown in FIGS. 24-33). From the gas port 525, the portion of the compressed gas then travels into the gas tube bore 250 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIGS. 28 and 33). The portion of the compressed gas then travels along the bore 250 towards an exit end 255 of the gas tube 155 to cycle the bolt carrier group 170.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the gas port 525 directly into the gas tube bore 250 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIGS. 24-33).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 comprises the exit end 255 and the forward end 260 (shown in FIGS. 9-12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 is a hollow tube (shown in FIGS. 9-12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed between the exit end 255 and the forward end 260. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the forward end 260 comprises the front surface 265 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed in the front surface 265 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube bore 250 is formed through the front surface 265 of the gas tube 155 (shown in FIG. 12). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the gas port 525 into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the gas port 525 directly into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the portion of the compressed gas travels from the barrel bore 237 into the gas tube bore 250 though the front surface 265.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 is positioned over the nozzle 505 as shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 32-33. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 covers at least a portion of the nozzle 505 as shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 32-33. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is inserted into the gas tube 155 as shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 32-33. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is at least partially inserted into the gas tube 155 as shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 32-33. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 is pressure fitted over the nozzle 505 as shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 32-33. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas tube 155 is at least partially pressure fitted over the nozzle 505 as shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 32-33.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 525 is formed at an angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 34). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 525 is formed at an angle that is less than 90 degrees to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 34). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 525 is formed at an acute angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 34). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 525 is formed at a 45-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 34). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port. 525 is formed between 10-degree angle and 80-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 34).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is formed at an angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 34). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is formed at an angle that is less than 90 degrees to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 34). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is formed at an acute angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 34). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is formed at a 45-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 34). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is formed between 10-degree angle and 80-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 27-28 and 34).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the gas port 525 is formed at a 90-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 32-33 and 35). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the nozzle 505 is formed at a 90-degree angle to the barrel bore 237 of the barrel 115 (shown in FIGS. 32-33 and 35).
Referring to FIGS. 36-37, the rear end 230 of the barrel 115 is shown according to some embodiments presently disclosed. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the rear end 230 is machined to accept a semi-automatic firearm bolt 600 described in more detail below and/or bolt carrier assembly 170.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the rear end 230 of the barrel 115 is machined to accept, for example, a seven (7) lug semi-automatic firearm bolt 600 and/or eight (8) lug semi-automatic firearm bolt (not shown).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the rear end 230 of the barrel 115 comprises a bolt engaging face 700 and/or a plurality of lug “ways” or lug channels 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 (e.g., disposed, formed, machined, and/or cut in the bolt engaging face 700, thereby creating and/or defining one or more locking lug channel peaks 720) configured to accept three or more of the locking lugs 608a, 610a, 612a, 614a, 616a, 618a, 620a of the bolt 600 described in more detail below. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 comprises three or more of the lug channels 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 comprises three or more of the locking lug channel peaks 720. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 comprises three or more of the lug channels 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 and three or more of the locking lug channel peaks 720.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the locking lug channels 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 and/or locking lug channel peaks 720, may be rounded, chamfered, and/or tapered (as shown in FIGS. 36-37). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the locking lug channels 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 and/or locking lug channel peaks 720, may be rectangular (as shown in FIG. 55).
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the bolt engaging face 700 and/or the locking lug channels 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 and/or locking lug channel peaks 720 are tapered (e.g., fully concave cone-shaped) such as in accordance with a taper of a corresponding firearm bolt and/or bolt carrier in a cone-breech semi-automatic firearm system.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the rear end 230 of the barrel 115 comprises one or more cartridge feed ramps 730. The cartridge feed ramps 730 may, for example, be configured to facilitate acceptance (e.g., loading) of one or more firearm cartridges, such as the bullet-end thereof and/or locking lugs of a corresponding firearm bolt that provides the cartridge to the rear end 230 of the barrel 115.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the rear end 230 of the barrel 115 comprises a locking lug mating surface 740. The locking lug mating surface 740 is configured to accept, position, and/or support locking lugs of a mated firearm bolt, such as after such lugs have passed through the locking lug channels 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 and/or have been rotated with respect to the rear end 230 of the barrel 115 (e.g., radially offsetting the locking lugs from the locking lug channels 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 to lock the firearm bolt 600 to the rear end 230 of the barrel 115 as described in more detail below.
The cartridges in a double stack/double feed magazine are directed into the chamber 745 by the cartridge feed ramps 730. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the cartridge feed ramps 730 are angled channels or ramps machined directly into the barrel 115 and are used to guide the cartridges into the chamber 745 as the cartridges are pushed forward and out of a magazine by the bolt 600. As the bolt 600 cycles, the top cartridge located under the feed lip of the magazine is pushed forward by the bolt 600, and the cartridge moves in a straight horizontal fashion until the projectile in the cartridge contacts the cartridge feed ramps 730 of the barrel 115. As the cartridge continues to move forward the cartridge is deflected upward and inward into the chamber 745 of the barrel 115.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 and the one or more locking lug channel peaks 720 form a monolithic structure. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the one or more locking lug channel peaks 720 are machined directly into the barrel 115 to form a monolithic structure.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the bolt carrier assembly 170 comprises the firearm bolt 600 (shown in FIGS. 4 and 38-44). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the firearm bolt 600 is removably coupled with the bolt carrier assembly 170 (shown in FIGS. 4 and 38-44). Referring now to FIGS. 38-44, the firearm bolt 600 is shown according to some embodiments presently disclosed.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the firearm bolt 600 comprises a barrel extension guide portion 605, seven (7) locking lugs 608a, 610a, 612a, 614a, 616a, 618a, 620a, a breech face 625, one or more cartridge guides 630, and/or a cartridge seat 635. According to some embodiments, the cartridge seat 635 comprises a firing pin hole 640 through which a firing pin (not shown) may protrude to forcibly ignite primer in a cartridge seated in the cartridge seat 635. In some embodiments, the firearm bolt 600 and/or the cartridge seat 635 may comprise an ejector hole 645, configured to receive and/or accept a plunger-style ejector, ejector spring, and/or ejector mechanism. As depicted for non-limiting purposes of illustration only, the firearm bolt 600 comprises a center-fire bolt configuration. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the firearm bolt 600 comprises three or more of the lugs 608a, 610a, 612a, 614a, 616a, 618a, 620a.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the firearm bolt 600 comprises an extractor channel 650. According to some embodiments, the extractor channel 650 may comprise a seat 655, a pin hole 660, and/or a rail cut 665. The seat 655 may be configured to accept a protrusion from an AR-15/M-16-style extractor (not shown), and/or an extractor spring (not shown). In the case of an AR-15/M-16-style extractor, the pin hole 660 may be cut and/or formed into one or more of the sides of the extractor channel 650 and/or May accept a pin (not shown) that rotatably attaches the AR-15/M-16-style extractor to the firearm bolt 600. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the breech face 625 may be cone-shaped and/or tapered or chamfered.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel extension guide portion 605 comprises peaks 608b, 610b, 612b, 614b, 616b, 618b, 620b positioned directly behind the lugs 608a, 610a, 612a, 614a, 616a, 618a, 620a respectively (shown in FIGS. 38-44). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the peaks 608b, 610b, 612b, 614b, 616b, 618b, 620b may, for example, initiate at or near the rear of the locking lugs 608a, 610a, 612a, 614a, 616a, 618a, 620a and extend rearward along the firearm bolt 600. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the distance that the peaks 608b, 610b, 612b, 614b, 616b, 618b, 620b extend along the length of the firearm bolt 600 may be approximate to the length of the locking lugs 608a, 610a, 612a, 614a, 616a, 618a, 620a.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the peaks 608b, 610b, 612b, 614b, 616b, 618b, 620b provide a mating, resting, and/or seating surface configured to couple and/or mate with one or more peaks 720 machined directly into the barrel 115.
Referring to FIGS. 45-46, a cutaway, partial view of the barrel 115 is shown with the bolt 600 according to some embodiments presently disclosed. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, when the bolt 600 is inserted directly into the barrel 115, the lugs 608a, 610a, 612a, 614a, 616a, 618a, 620a of the bolt 600 are positioned within the lug channels 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 of the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, when the bolt 600 is inserted directly into the barrel 115, the logs 608a, 610a, 612a, 614a, 616a, 618a, 620a of the bolt 600 are positioned between the peaks 720 of the barrel 115.
Referring to FIGS. 47-48, a cutaway, partial view of the barrel 115 is shown with the bolt 600 according to some embodiments presently disclosed. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, when the bolt 600 is rotated within the barrel 115, the lugs 608a, 610a, 612a, 614a, 616a, 618a, 620a of the bolt 600 are positioned away from the lug channels 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 of the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, when the bolt 600 is rotated within the barrel 115, the lugs 608a, 610a, 612a, 614a, 616a, 618a, 620a of the bolt 600 are positioned behind the peaks 720 of the barrel 115 to prevent the bolt 600 from being removed from the barrel 115.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form a flange 801 as shown in FIGS. 13-14, 36, 38 and 49. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form a flange 801 extending away from an outer barrel surface 307 of the barrel 115 as shown in FIGS. 13-14, 36, 38 and 49. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 and the flange 801 form a monolithic structure as shown in FIGS. 13-14, 36, 38 and 49. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel nut 130 abuts the flange 801 when the barrel nut 130 is coupled with the upper receiver 125 to prevent the barrel 115 from being removed from the upper receiver 125.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form a locator aperture 805 as shown in FIGS. 36 and 49. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 comprises a locator aperture 805 as shown in FIGS. 36 and 49. The locator aperture 805 is configured to accommodate an indexing pin (not shown) to allow for and/or facilitate proper alignment and/or coupling of the barrel 115 to the upper receiver 125. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel is machined to form an indexing pin (not shown). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form an indexing pin extending away from an outer barrel surface 307 of the barrel 115.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form a channel 815 configured to accommodate a plurality of semicircular pieces 820 as shown in FIGS. 50-51. When placed in the channel 815, the plurality of semicircular pieces 820 form a flange around the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel nut 130 abuts the plurality of semicircular pieces 820 when the barrel nut 130 is coupled with the upper receiver 125 to prevent the barrel 115 from being removed from the upper receiver 125. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel nut 130 is positioned over the plurality of semicircular pieces 820 when the barrel nut 130 is coupled with the upper receiver 125 to prevent the plurality of semicircular pieces 820 from being removed from the channel 815. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel nut 130 is positioned over and abuts the plurality of semicircular pieces 820 when the barrel nut 130 is coupled with the upper receiver 125 to capture the plurality of semicircular pieces 820 within the channel 815. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the plurality of semicircular pieces 820 are removed from the channel 815 to allow the barrel nut 130 to slide onto the barrel 115 from the rear end 230. Once the barrel 115 is positioned within the barrel nut 130, the plurality of semicircular pieces 820 are positioned within the channel 815 and the barrel nut 130 is coupled with the upper receiver 125. Once the barrel 115 is positioned within the barrel nut 130, the plurality of semicircular pieces 820 are positioned within the channel 815 to prevent the barrel nut 130 from being removed from the barrel 115.
According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form a flat surface 850 as shown in FIGS. 13, 20-21 and 52. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the barrel 115 is machined to form a D-shaped rear end 230 as shown in FIGS. 13, 20-21 and 52. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the upper receiver 125 comprises an aperture 855 configured to accommodate the barrel 115 as shown in FIG. 52. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the upper receiver 125 comprises an aperture 855 configured to accommodate the rear end 230 of the barrel 115 as shown in FIG. 52. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the aperture 855 comprises a flat surface 860 configured to abut the flat surface 850 when the barrel 115 is coupled with the upper receiver 125. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the aperture 855 is D-shaped and is configured to accommodate the D-shaped rear end 230 of the barrel 115. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the flat surface 850 abuts the flat surface 860 and prevents the barrel 115 from rotating within the aperture 855. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the flat surface 850 abuts the flat surface 860 and prevents the barrel 115 from rotating within the upper receiver 125.
It is to be understood that any assembly described above and/or any features described above may be implemented on different types of firearms. Above described embodiments may be implemented on firearms using a direct impingement system of operation or firearm using piston system of operation. Direct impingement is a type of gas operation for a firearm that directs gas from a fired cartridge directly into the bolt carrier to cycle the action. Piston system uses gas pressure to mechanically move the bolt carrier to cycle the action. It is also to be understood that the above described embodiments may be implemented on M-16 and Armalite style rifles (ARs).
The foregoing detailed description of exemplary and preferred embodiments is presented for purposes of illustration and disclosure in accordance with the requirements of the law. It is not intended to be exhaustive nor to limit the invention to the precise form(s) described, but only to enable others skilled in the art to understand how the invention May be suited for a particular use or implementation. The possibility of modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art. No limitation is intended by the description of exemplary embodiments which may have included tolerances, feature dimensions, specific operating conditions, engineering specifications, or the like, and which may vary between implementations or with changes to the state of the art, and no limitation should be implied therefrom. Applicant has made this disclosure with respect to the current state of the art, but also contemplates advancements and that adaptations in the future may take into consideration of those advancements, namely in accordance with the then current state of the art. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the Claims as written and equivalents as applicable. Reference to a claim element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated. Moreover, no element, component, nor method or process step in this disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. Sec. 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for . . . ” and no method or process step herein is to be construed under those provisions unless the step, or steps, are expressly recited using the phrase “step(s) for . . . .”
Patent Application
20250230999
