HK40006680A

HK40006680A - Compact improved bug killing gun

Info

Publication number: HK40006680A
Application number: HK19130257.9A
Authority: HK
Inventors: L·马焦雷
Original assignee: L·马焦雷
Priority date: 2017-11-02
Filing date: 2019-09-27
Publication date: 2020-05-22

Description

Compact type improved insecticidal gun

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a partial continuation of the currently pending application PCT/US18/19908 filed on day 27/2 in 2018, which was filed on day 2/11 in 2017 and was filed on day 10/4 in 2018 as part of the U.S. application No.15/801,393 issued in U.S. patent No.9,939,227, the latter U.S. application being a continuation of the currently pending application PCT/US2016/039268 filed on day 24/6 in 2016. The present application is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to the field of weapons and insect control, and more particularly, to a device for remotely killing insects without the use of toxic chemicals.

Background

A number of methods and devices for treating pests have been developed. Many people are extremely interested in dealing with flying insects because they tend to be very obvious, sometimes noisy and often have the ability to bite or sting. Conventional devices for killing flying insects include devices such as flyswatters and their equivalents or chemical sprays. The former requires some skill and flexibility to be effective, while the latter leaves potentially harmful chemical residues in the area of use. The present invention addresses these problems and also provides entertainment for those devices that are tasked with pest removal in the form of a gun designed for shooting flying insects. Other devices developed to provide insect removal in a related manner include the following inventions.

U.S. patent No.1,611,533 to Kirsten relates to an insect shooting device in which a spring-loaded pistol-type device is used to dispense material bullets (shots) or beads to exterminate a variety of household insects such as flies. The device is in the form of a gun or pistol having a piston which is operated by a linkage and which is released by means of a trigger under the action of a spring actuation. Movement of the piston in the forward direction ultimately results in the release of the bullet holding nozzle from the tapered end of the barrel. The bullet-holding nozzle contains a liquid that, when dispensed, disperses over and kills insects such as flies.

U.S. patent No.4,653,433 to Comparetti relates to a microwave flea killer that takes the form of a pistol and releases a powder material when actuated by a trigger mechanism to control insects such as fleas commonly found on fur-bearing animals. Microwave flea killers take the form of a pistol with a pistol-type handle having a trigger operated by a user's finger. When the trigger is operated, a powder sample is released from the powder chamber through the barrel portion, through the opening and onto the animal.

U.S. patent No.3,791,303 to Sweeny et al relates to deterrent ammunition in the form of liquid-filled hollow balls. The projectile assembly was fired from an oversized tubular barrel extension located on the end of the shotgun. The projectile assembly contains deterrent ammunition that, once ruptured, can control flies or other insects.

U.S. patent application No.2006/0283433, published for Gerardo, relates to a projection device that uses pressurized air. The device includes a gun-like device, an air chamber with a trigger having a valve located on the inside of a connector that connects the air chamber to the barrel. The air chamber may be filled with compressed air and after loading the gun with the object to be fired from the barrel, the operator then opens the valve to allow air pressure to exit the chamber, thereby releasing air from the chamber and the projectile from the barrel under the action of the trigger.

U.S. patent No.7,207,497 to Clark relates to a dry sheet sprayer and method that is used to spray dry sheets using a source of pressurized gas. The foil spray apparatus includes a spray module and a gun module, wherein the spray module includes a housing having an airflow conduit and a foil conduit. A supply of dry flakes is placed into the housing and connected to the gun and upon operation of the trigger, gas flows from the control valve through a nozzle that causes the flakes to be dispersed through the conduit.

U.S. patent No.8,251,051 to Maggiore (applicant) relates to a pesticide gun including a source of compressed gas fluidly connected to a chamber connected to the barrel. The compressed gas release mechanism is connected to a compressed gas source. A pellet storage magazine stores pellet projectiles and is positioned adjacent the chamber. A projectile loading mechanism moves the projectiles from the magazine into the chamber. A cocking mechanism is mechanically coupled to the source of compressed gas, the compressed gas release mechanism, and the projectile loading mechanism. The stock receives and supports a source of compressed gas, a compressed gas release mechanism, a barrel, a chamber, a pellet storage magazine, a cocking mechanism, and a pellet loading mechanism. The pellet loading mechanism loads a predetermined amount of particulate pellets into the chamber when the gun is cocked. When the compressed gas release mechanism is actuated, the projectile is ejected from the chamber into the barrel and ejected from the gun.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for killing flying insects. It is another object of the present invention to provide a device for using a non-toxic means for killing insects. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an insect killing apparatus incorporating an active safety feature. Another object is to provide a device that is entertaining in use and inexpensive to operate. Another object is to provide an effective insect killing device in a compact form. Another object is to provide an insect killing device which is capable of rapid repetitive shooting while still maintaining the necessary safety features. Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide an insect killing device that is durable, inexpensive and easy to handle.

Although some objects of the invention are disclosed in the prior art, none of the inventions found includes all of the requirements identified.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention addresses all of the deficiencies of the prior art insecticidal gun inventions and meets all of the above objectives.

(1) A compact, improved insecticidal gun that provides the desired features may be constructed from the following components. A source of compressed gas is provided. A chamber is provided. The chamber is fluidly connected to a source of compressed gas. A barrel is provided. The barrel is located at the distal end of the chamber. A compressed gas release mechanism is provided. The release mechanism is connected to a source of compressed gas. A projectile storage magazine is provided. The magazine stores particulate projectiles and is positioned adjacent to the chamber.

The shot storage magazine includes a cylindrical chamber. The cylindrical chamber has a first lateral pellet loading chute and a second lateral pellet loading chute. The loading slot extends from the upper edge of the cylindrical chamber to the base of the cylindrical chamber. The cylindrical chamber has a circular opening at a lower end. The lower end is sealably fitted to the upper end of a vertical circular opening through the chamber. A rectangular projectile feed magazine is provided. The feed box surrounds the cylindrical chamber and provides additional space for the pellet outside the cylindrical chamber. A hingedly attached sealing cover is provided. The sealing cover has a first semi-circular ridge and a second semi-circular ridge on the underside of the cover. The ridge is designed to encircle the upper edge of the cylindrical chamber adjacent to the first and second lateral pellet loading slots. The sealing cover has a peripheral channel on the underside. The peripheral channel is sized, shaped and positioned to seal the rectangular pellet feed bin when the sealing cover is moved to the closed position. A lid latching mechanism is provided. The lid latching mechanism is positioned in the opposite manner to the hinge for the sealing lid.

A shot loading mechanism is arranged. The loading mechanism moves the particle pellets from the magazine into the chamber. The cocking mechanism is mechanically coupled to the source of compressed gas, the compressed gas release mechanism, and the projectile loading mechanism. An automatic fire readiness indicator is provided. The cocking status indicator moves to a raised visible position after the gun is cocked and moves to a lowered concealed position after firing the gun. An external manual safety mechanism is provided. The manual safety mechanism may be moved by a user from a safety position to a firing position while remaining gripped on the gun. And setting a gun stock. The stock houses and supports a source of compressed gas, a compressed gas release mechanism, a barrel, a chamber, a pellet storage magazine, a cocking mechanism, and a pellet loading mechanism. When the gun is cocked by the cocking mechanism, the pellet loading mechanism accumulates a predetermined quantity of particulate pellets and positions the pellets in the chamber. When the compressed gas release mechanism is actuated, the projectile is ejected from the chamber into the barrel and ejected from the gun.

(2) In one variant, the source of compressed gas is selected from the group consisting of pre-filled CO₂A cartridge, a rechargeable compressed gas cylinder, a pneumatically pumped gas reservoir, a spring actuated compressed gas system and an external compressed gas line.

(3) In another variation, the spring-actuated compressed gas system further comprises a gas cylinder. The cylinder has a front end and a rear end and is fluidly connected to the chamber at the front end. A piston is provided. The piston is sealably fitted in and positioned within the cylinder. A compression spring is provided. The compression spring urges the piston towards the front end. A spring compression mechanism is provided. The compression mechanism pushes the piston toward the rearward end and compresses the compression spring. A latching mechanism is provided. The latch mechanism releasably retains the piston adjacent the rearward end and holds the compression spring in a compressed state. The user performs a gun firing preparation action, the spring compression mechanism is operated, the piston is pushed toward the rear end of the cylinder, the spring is compressed, and the spring and piston are held by the latch mechanism until released, allowing the piston to move quickly toward the front end of the cylinder. This provides a burst of compressed gas in the cylinder and to the connected chamber.

(4) In yet another variation, the compressed gas release mechanism further comprises a trigger. The trigger is rotatably mounted to the stock and is urged in a counterclockwise direction by an arcuate trigger return spring. The trigger return spring is constrained by an arcuate channel in the butt stock. The trigger has an upper protrusion. The upper projection engages the inner safety pivot. The safety pivot prevents release of the latch mechanism unless the cocking action is completed. The trigger has a lift ramp positioned behind the upper protrusion. When the trigger is pivoted rearwardly, the lift ramp pushes the release bracket of the latch mechanism upwardly against the downwardly pushed compression spring. The release bracket is pivotally mounted to the stock and has an upwardly directed travel limiting arm positioned within a recess in the stock. The release bracket has a downwardly facing rib. The rib releasably engages an upwardly facing control recess in the main bar of the latch mechanism.

The main rod is attached to the piston with an upwardly inclined ramp at the rear end located behind the control recess. The ramp guides the rib into the control notch. During a cocking action, the main lever moves rearward in a channel in the stock. When the rib engages the control notch, the release bracket holds the primary lever in the first, firing-ready position. The cradle releases the boom to the second firing position when the trigger is pivoted rearward, thereby lifting the release cradle and lifting the rib from the control notch. This enables the main rod and piston to move forward as urged by the compression spring, thereby pressurizing the cylinder.

(5) In another variant, the lower end of the container is sealably fitted to the upper end of said vertical circular opening through the chamber, using a sealing gasket.

(6) In yet another variation, the projectile loading mechanism further comprises a metering rod. The metering rod is sized and shaped to sealably fit through a vertical circular opening through the chamber, and has an orthogonal actuating rod extending from a lower end of the metering rod and a through hole positioned above the actuating rod. The through hole is orthogonal to the rod and the metering rod, and the through hole is sized and positioned to align with the chamber when placed against the stop surface by the rod. The actuating rod is urged upwardly by a return compression spring to rest against the lower end of a vertical circular opening in the chamber.

The through-holes are charged with particulate pellets when positioned in the cylindrical chamber above the chamber during the cocking action. After actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism, the actuating lever is pushed down by the pivotably mounted secondary lever to rest against the stop surface. This allows the compressed gas to eject the particulate pellets from the chamber and through the barrel.

(7) In yet another variation of the invention, the projectile loading mechanism further comprises a central lumen. The tube extends downwardly from the lower end of the cylindrical chamber. The lower portion of the tube provides a stop for one end of the return compression spring. A trajectory guide portion is provided. The guide is positioned below a lower end of the cylindrical chamber, has a hollow bore sized to slidably fit around the tube, and has a vertical slot extending downward a first predetermined distance from the lower end. The groove terminates in a stop surface. The trajectory guide is positioned around the tube and provides a support platform for attaching a shot storage magazine. A metering rod is provided. The rod is cylindrical and is dimensioned to slidably fit within the tube and has an orthogonal actuation rod extending from its lower end. The metering rod has a through hole positioned above the actuating rod. The through hole is orthogonal to the rod and the metering rod and is sized and positioned to align with the chamber when the rod is placed against the stop surface. A return compression spring urges the metering rod upwardly to rest against the lower end of the vertical circular opening in the chamber. An auxiliary rod is arranged. The lever has a first end and a second end and is pivotally mounted to a cover for a source of pressurized gas. The first end of the secondary rod includes a metering slot. The metering slot surrounds the actuating rod. During forward movement of the cocking mechanism, the second end of the secondary lever is pushed upward by the cam. Upward movement of the second end of the secondary rod moves the actuating rod downward, compressing the return compression spring and aligning the through-hole of the metering rod with the chamber. This allows the compressed gas to drive the particulate pellets out of the chamber and through the barrel. Downward movement of the second end of the secondary lever causes the actuating lever to move upwardly as urged by the return compression spring. This enables the pellet to fill the through hole of the metering rod as the metering rod moves in the pellet storage magazine surrounded by the pellet.

(8) In another variation, the spring compression mechanism further comprises a master gear rack. The rack and pinion is slidably positioned in a channel in the stock, has gear teeth positioned on an upper surface and has a mounting clip adjacent the front end for attaching a slide handle. A reduction gear transmission is provided. The gear transmission is mounted to the outer cover of the gas cylinder. And a pinion and a rack are arranged. The secondary rack is attached below the piston and positioned above the reduction gear transmission. The main gear rack engages the reduction gear drive and the reduction gear drive engages the pinion rack. The rearward movement of the slide handle moves the main gear rack rearward, rotating the reduction gear assembly and moving the piston rearward, thereby compressing the compression spring.

(9) In yet another variation, a downwardly directed cam lobe is provided. The cam lobe is positioned below and orthogonal to the metering slot. A cam actuation tab is provided. The protrusion is positioned adjacent to a lateral edge and a front end of an upper surface of the main gear rack. The actuation tab has a profiled inner surface. The contoured inner surface is sized, shaped, and positioned to engage a leading edge of the cam lobe as the main gear rack moves rearward and forward during operation of the firing preparation mechanism. Engagement of the cam lobe causes the metering rod to move upward during operation of the cocking mechanism, which in turn causes the metering rod to move downward. This motion is used to remove any particulate pellets that are attached to the metering rod.

(10) In another variation, during operation of the firing preparation mechanism, engagement of the cam lobes with the cam actuation lobes during forward movement of the main gear rack provides audible confirmation of completion of the operation.

(11) In yet another variation, a control slot moving in cooperation with the primary lever maintains the first end of the inner safety pivot in the raised position during rearward movement of the control slot. This causes the second end of the pivot member to engage an upper projection at the upper end of the trigger of the compressed gas release mechanism, thereby preventing actuation of the mechanism. Once the forward movement of the main gear rack and the control slot is completed, the control slot causes the first end of the inner safety pivot to move downward to the lowered position. This downward movement allows the upper projection of the trigger to be released and allows the gas release mechanism to be actuated.

(12) In yet another variation, the support stock further comprises a sight glass. The sight glass is positioned adjacent to the magazine and allows for viewing of the height of the particulate pellets contained in the magazine.

(13) In yet another variation, a cocking mechanism controller is provided. The cocking mechanism controller includes a receiving notch. The receiving notch is positioned in an outboard track of the cocking mechanism. A blocking portion is provided. The blocking portion is pivotally mounted to the underside of the pinion rack. The blocking portion is urged toward the receiving recess by a spring. The blocking portion has a retaining protrusion at a lower edge. The retention tab is sized and shaped to engage the receiving recess and has an angled surface extending upwardly above the retention tab. An actuating portion is provided. The actuating portion is attached to the secondary lever adjacent the first end. Upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism, the actuating portion moves downward with the secondary lever. The actuating portion bears on the inclined surface of the blocking portion and pushes the retaining protrusion out of the receiving recess, thereby allowing actuation of the cocking mechanism.

(14) In another variation, the gun uses pre-filled CO₂The cartridge acts as a source of compressed gas and the gun further comprises a cylindrical cartridge chamber. The cartridge chamber is sized and shaped to form a toroidal CO₂A barrel and having a sealable opening at a first end for introduction into the barrel. A female seat is provided that is positioned at the second end. The seat is sized and shaped to sealably fit over the discharge end of the cartridge. A hollow puncture needle is located within the seat portion. A sealing cap is provided. The cap is removably attached to the cartridge chamber by mating threads. The screwing of the cap pushes the cartridge against the puncture needle. A pressure vessel is provided. The pressure vessel is fluidly connected to a metering device. Upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism, the metering device allows a predetermined amount of compressed gas into the chamber.

(15) In yet another variation, the compressed gas release mechanism further comprises a trigger. The trigger is rotatably mounted to the stock and is urged in a counterclockwise direction by an arcuate trigger return spring. The trigger return spring is constrained by an arcuate channel in the butt stock. The trigger has an upper protrusion. The upper protrusion engages the inner safety pivot. The safety pivot prevents release of the latch mechanism unless the firing preparation is complete. The trigger has a lift ramp positioned behind the upper protrusion. When the trigger is pivoted rearward, the lift ramp pushes the release bracket of the latch mechanism upward against the downward pushing compression spring. The release bracket pivots on a fitting attached to the stock, has an upwardly directed travel limiting arm positioned within a recess in the stock, and has a downwardly facing rib. The rib releasably engages an upwardly facing control notch in the loading rod. The loading lever is pushed forward by a loading coil spring, and has an upwardly inclined slope at a rear end positioned at the rear of the control recess. The ramp guides the rib into the control notch.

During the cocking action, the load bar moves rearward in the channel in the stock. When the rib engages the control notch, the release bracket holds the loading rod in the first, firing-ready position. When the trigger is moved rearward, thereby lifting the release bracket and lifting the rib from the control notch, the release bracket releases the loading rod to the second firing position. This enables the loading rod to move forward as urged by the loading coil spring. The loading rod actuates the shot loading mechanism and the metering device.

(16) In yet another variation of the invention, the gun uses a pneumatically pumped reservoir as the source of compressed gas, and the gun further includes a gas cylinder. The gas cylinder has an inlet valve and an outlet valve. A piston is provided. The piston is sealably fitted within the cylinder. A pumping mechanism is provided. The pumping mechanism is mechanically coupled to the piston and moves the piston from an extended position to a compressed position within the gas cylinder. The inlet valve is in an open position when the piston moves from the compressed position to the extended position, and the inlet valve is in a closed position when the piston moves from the extended position to the compressed position. The outlet valve is in a closed position when the piston moves from the compressed position to the extended position, and the outlet valve is in an open position when the piston moves from the extended position to the compressed position.

A reservoir is fluidly connected to the outlet valve and the chamber. Upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism, the projectile loading mechanism allows a predetermined amount of compressed gas into the chamber. Repeated movement of the piston within the gas cylinder from the extended position to the compressed position by the pumping mechanism will increase the pressure within the gas reservoir, thereby allowing the particulate pellets to be ejected from the chamber with increased force once the pressure is released by the compressed gas release mechanism.

(17) In another variation, the compressed gas release mechanism further comprises a trigger. The trigger is rotatably mounted to the stock and is urged in a counterclockwise direction by an arcuate trigger return spring. The trigger return spring is constrained by an arcuate channel in the butt stock. The trigger has an upper protrusion. The upper protrusion engages the inner safety pivot. A safety pivot prevents release of the latch mechanism unless the cocking action is completed. The trigger has a lift ramp positioned behind the upper protrusion. When the trigger is pivoted rearwardly, the lift ramp pushes the release bracket of the latch mechanism upwardly against the downwardly pushed compression spring. The release bracket pivots on a fitting attached to the stock, has an upwardly directed travel limiting arm positioned within a recess in the stock, and has a downwardly facing rib. The rib is releasably engaged with an upwardly facing control notch in the loading rod. The loading lever is pushed forward by a loading coil spring, and has an upwardly inclined slope at a rear end located behind the control recess. The ramp guides the rib into the control notch.

(18) In yet another variation, the gun uses a rechargeable compressed gas cylinder as the source of compressed gas. The gas cylinder has a shut-off valve and an attachment fitting positioned adjacent to the first end. A mating attachment fitting is provided. The mating attachment fitting is mounted to the support stock and is fluidly connected to the metering device. The metering device is fluidly connected to the chamber and allows a predetermined amount of compressed gas to enter the chamber upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism. The filled refillable compressed gas cylinder is attached to the mating attachment fitting, the shut-off valve is opened, and compressed gas is released through the metering device upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism.

(19) In yet another variation, the compressed gas release mechanism further comprises a trigger. The trigger is rotatably mounted to the stock and is urged in a counterclockwise direction by an arcuate trigger return spring. The trigger return spring is constrained by an arcuate channel in the butt stock. The trigger has an upper protrusion. The upper protrusion engages the inner safety pivot. A safety pivot prevents release of the latch mechanism unless the cocking action is completed. The trigger has a lift ramp positioned behind the upper protrusion. When the trigger is pivoted rearwardly, the lift ramp pushes the release bracket of the latch mechanism upwardly against the downwardly pushed compression spring. The release bracket pivots on a fitting attached to the stock, has an upwardly directed travel limiting arm positioned within a recess in the stock, and has a downwardly facing rib. The rib releasably engages an upwardly facing control notch in the loading rod. The loading lever is pushed forward by a loading coil spring, and has an upwardly inclined slope at a rear end located behind the control recess. The ramp guides the rib into the control notch.

(20) In another variation, the gun uses an external compressed gas line as the compressed gas source, and the gun further comprises an external compressed gas line. The line is connected to a source of compressed gas and has a shut-off valve and an attachment fitting positioned adjacent to the first end. A mating attachment fitting is provided. The mating attachment fitting is mounted to the support stock and is fluidly connected to the metering device. The metering device is fluidly connected to the chamber. Upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism, the metering device allows a predetermined amount of compressed gas into the chamber. An external compressed gas line is attached to the mating attachment fitting, a shut-off valve is opened, and the compressed gas is released through the metering device upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism.

(21) In yet another variation, the compressed gas release mechanism further comprises a trigger. The trigger is rotatably mounted to the stock and is urged in a counterclockwise direction by an arcuate trigger return spring. The trigger return spring is constrained by an arcuate channel in the butt stock. The trigger has an upper protrusion. The upper protrusion engages the inner safety pivot. A safety pivot prevents release of the latch mechanism unless the cocking action is completed. The trigger has a lift ramp positioned behind the upper protrusion. When the trigger is pivoted rearwardly, the lift ramp pushes the release bracket of the latch mechanism upwardly against the downwardly pushed compression spring. The release bracket pivots on a fitting attached to the stock, has an upwardly directed travel limiting arm positioned within a recess in the stock, and has a downwardly facing rib. The rib releasably engages an upwardly facing control notch in the loading rod. The loading lever is pushed forward by a loading coil spring, and has an upwardly inclined slope at a rear end positioned at the rear of the control recess. The ramp guides the rib into the control notch.

(22) In yet another variation of the invention, the pistol grip and the front fender supporting the stock have flat lower surfaces. These flat surfaces allow the gun to be balanced in an upright position for adding granular projectiles to a projectile storage magazine.

(23) In another variation of the invention, the improved insecticidal gun further comprises a laser aiming device. The laser sighting device includes a battery powered laser. The laser is capable of producing a laser aiming spot. A housing is provided. The housing is adapted to house the laser, a battery power supply and control circuitry for the laser. An attachment mechanism is provided. The attachment mechanism is adapted to attach the laser sighting device adjacent to the distal end of the barrel.

(24) In yet another variation, the attachment mechanism is integrally formed with the distal end of the barrel.

(25) In yet another variation, the attachment mechanism is adapted to removably attach the laser sight to the distal end of the barrel.

(26) In a further variant, the laser sighting device comprises a height adjustment and a deviation adjustment for the sighting point of the laser sighting spot.

(27) In yet another variant, a power switch is provided. The switch controls the power supply to the laser.

(28) In yet another variation, a power switch is mounted on the housing.

(29) In a final variant of the invention, the power switch is integral with the trigger. Initial rearward movement of the trigger completes the circuit within the power switch to provide a laser aiming spot prior to actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism.

An understanding of other objects and objects of the invention, and an understanding of the invention, may be obtained by reference to the drawings and to the detailed description of the preferred embodiment.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, including an illustration of a magazine and sight glass;

fig. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of fig. 1 showing the pellet loading mechanism in the firing position and showing the flat lower surface of the pistol grip and foreguard (forearm) and the external safety;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing the projectile loading mechanism in a loading position;

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing a cocking mechanism controller during cocking;

FIG. 3B is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing a cocking mechanism controller during cocking;

FIG. 3C is an enlarged perspective view of the cocking mechanism controller illustrating the action of the receiving notch, blocking portion and actuating portion;

FIG. 3D is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the blocking portion and receiving notch taken along line 3D-3D, showing the blocking portion in the receiving notch;

FIG. 3E is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the blocking portion and receiving notch taken along line 3D-3D, showing the blocking portion removed from the receiving notch;

FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing details of the trigger and latch mechanism after the gun has been cocked;

FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing details of the trigger and latch mechanism in a condition ready to fire the gun;

FIG. 6 is a side view, partly in section, of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing details of the trigger and latch mechanism to illustrate movement of the mechanism when the gun is fired;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing the projectile loading mechanism in a firing position with the secondary lever and metering slot in a lowered position;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing the projectile loading mechanism in a loading position with the secondary rods and metering slots in a raised position;

fig. 9 is an orthogonal cross-sectional detail of the projectile storage magazine and the projectile loading mechanism in a firing position;

FIG. 10 is an orthogonal cross-sectional detail of the projectile storage magazine and the projectile loading mechanism in a projectile loading position;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing the spring-actuated compressed gas chamber when the bug gun is fired;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing the spring-actuated compressed gas chamber with the worm gun in a cocked position;

FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic view of the manual safety feature of the embodiment of FIG. 1 in a firing position, showing unlocking of the movement of the trigger prior to firing;

FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic view of the manual safety feature of the embodiment of FIG. 1 in a safety position showing the prevention of movement of the trigger;

fig. 15 is a side view of the embodiment of fig. 1 showing the flat lower surface of the pistol grip and foreguard and the external security device;

FIG. 16 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with an integrated laser targeting device;

FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of a laser sight in a detachable form, including details of the assembly and sight controls;

FIG. 18 is a detailed view of a trigger operated on/off switch;

FIG. 19 shows the insect gun with CO₂A cross-sectional side view of the powered embodiment showing the metering device and the latch mechanism in a cocked position;

FIG. 20 shows the effect of CO on insect guns₂A cross-sectional side view of the powered embodiment showing the metering device and the latch mechanism in a firing position;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the worm gun powered with a refillable gas cylinder, showing attachment of the gas cylinder and connection to a metering device;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the worm gun powered by a pneumatic pump showing the pumping mechanism and valves connected to the metering device; and

fig. 23 is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the worm gun powered by an external compressed gas line, showing the attachment and connection of the gas line to the metering device.

Detailed Description

(1) Fig. 1-23 illustrate an improved compact insecticidal gun 10 that provides the desired features that can be constructed from the following types of components. As shown in fig. 11 and 12, a compressed gas source 14 is provided. A chamber 18 is provided. Chamber 18 is fluidly connected to source 14 of compressed gas. A barrel 22 is provided. Barrel 22 is positioned at a distal end 26 of chamber 18. As shown in fig. 4-6, a compressed gas release mechanism 30 is provided. The release mechanism 30 is connected to the source of compressed gas 14. As shown in fig. 1-3, 11 and 12, a shot storage magazine 34 is provided. The magazine 34 stores particulate pellets 38 and is positioned adjacent to the chamber 18.

As shown in fig. 7-10, the shot storage magazine 34 includes a cylindrical chamber 36. The cylindrical chamber 36 has a first lateral projectile loading chute 40 and a second lateral projectile loading chute 44. The loading slots 40, 44 extend from the upper edge 48 of the cylindrical chamber 36 to the base 52 of the cylindrical chamber 36. The cylindrical chamber 36 has a circular opening 56 at a lower end 60. The lower end 60 is sealably fitted to the upper end 64 of a vertical circular opening 68 through the chamber 18. A rectangular pellet feed magazine (tray)72 is provided. The feed box 72 surrounds the cylindrical chamber 36 and provides additional space 76 for the particulate pellets 38 located outside of the cylindrical chamber 36. A hingedly attached sealing cover 80 is provided. The sealing cover 80 has a first semi-circular ridge 84 and a second semi-circular ridge 88 on the underside 92 of the cover 80. The ridges 84, 88 are designed to encircle the cylindrical chamber 36 adjacent an upper edge 96 of the first lateral projectile loading chute 40 and adjacent an upper edge 100 of the second lateral projectile loading chute 44. The seal cover 80 has a peripheral channel 104 on the underside 92. The peripheral channel 104 is sized, shaped and positioned to seal against the rectangular projectile feed magazine 72 when the sealing cap 80 is moved to the closed position 108. A lid latching mechanism 112 is provided. Lid latching mechanism 112 is positioned opposite hinge 116 for sealing lid 80.

As shown in fig. 2, 3 and 7-10, a projectile loading mechanism 42 is provided. The loading mechanism 42 moves the particulate pellets 38 from the magazine 34 into the chamber 18. The cocking mechanism 46 is mechanically coupled to the compressed gas source 14, the compressed gas release mechanism 30, and the projectile loading mechanism 42. As shown in fig. 2 and 3, an automatic fire ready status indicator 78 is provided. After gun 10 is cocked, cocked status indicator 78 moves to a raised visible position 86 and moves to a lowered concealed position 82 after gun 10 is fired. As shown in fig. 1-6 and 13-14, an external manual safety mechanism 54 is provided. The manual safety mechanism 54 may be moved from the safety position 70 to the firing position 74 by a user while remaining held on the gun 10. A butt 50 is provided. The stock 50 houses and supports the compressed gas source 14, compressed gas release mechanism 30, barrel 22, chamber 18, pellet storage magazine 34, cocking mechanism 46, and pellet loading mechanism 42. When the gun 10 is cocked by the cocking mechanism 46, the pellet loading mechanism 42 accumulates a predetermined quantity of particulate pellets 38 and positions the pellets 38 in the chamber 18. When compressed gas release mechanism 30 is actuated, pellets 38 are ejected from chamber 18 into barrel 22 and out of gun 10.

(2) In another variation, the source of compressed gas 14 is selected from the group consisting of being prefilled with CO as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20₂A rechargeable compressed gas cylinder 90 as shown in fig. 21, a pneumatically pumped gas reservoir 94 as shown in fig. 22, a spring actuated compressed gas system 98 as shown in fig. 11 and 12, and an external compressed gas line 102 as shown in fig. 23.

(3) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 11 and 12, spring-actuated compressed gas system 98 further includes a gas cylinder 106. Gas cylinder 106 has a front end 110 and a rear end 114 and is fluidly connected to chamber 18 at front end 110. A piston 118 is provided. The piston 118 is sealably fitted in the cylinder 106 and is positioned within the cylinder 106. A compression spring 122 is provided. Compression spring 122 urges piston 118 toward front end 110. A spring compression mechanism 126 is provided. The compression mechanism 126 urges the piston 118 toward the rearward end 114 and compresses the spring 122. As shown in fig. 4-6, a latch mechanism 130 is provided. The latch mechanism 130 releasably retains the piston 118 adjacent the rearward end 114 and the compression spring 122 in the compressed state 134. The user performs a gun firing preparation action, the spring compression mechanism 126 is operated, the piston 118 is pushed toward the rear end 114 of the gas cylinder 106, the spring 122 is compressed, and the spring 122 and piston 118 are held by the latch mechanism 130 until released, thereby enabling the piston 118 to move quickly toward the front end 110 of the gas cylinder 106. This provides a burst of compressed gas 138 in the cylinder 106 and to the connected chamber 18.

(4) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 4-6, the compressed gas release mechanism 30 further includes a trigger 142. Trigger 142 is rotatably mounted to stock 50 and urged in a counterclockwise direction by arcuate trigger return spring 52. Trigger return spring 52 is constrained by an arcuate channel 56 in butt stock 50. The trigger 142 has an upper protrusion 150. The upper projection 150 engages the inner safety pivot 154. The safety pivot 154 prevents release of the latch mechanism 130 unless the firing preparation is complete. The trigger 142 has a lift ramp 158 located behind the upper projection 150. As the trigger 142 is pivoted rearward, the lift ramp 158 pushes the release bracket 162 of the latch mechanism 130 upward against the downward-pushing compression spring 166. The release bracket 162 pivots on a fitting 170 attached to the butt 50, has an upwardly directed travel limit arm 164 positioned within a notch 168 in the butt 50, and has a downwardly facing rib 174. The rib 174 releasably engages an upwardly facing control notch 178 in the main rod 182 of the latch mechanism 130.

As shown in fig. 11 and 12, the main rod 182 is attached to the piston 118 with an upwardly inclined ramp 186 at a rear end 190 located rearward of the control notch 178. The ramp 186 guides the rib 174 into the control notch 178. During a cocking action, the main rod 182 moves rearward in the channel 194 in the butt stock 50, as shown in fig. 4-6. When the rib 174 engages the control notch 178, the release bracket 162 retains the primary lever 182 in the first, firing ready position 198. When the trigger 142 is pivoted rearward, thereby lifting the release bracket 162 and lifting the rib 174 from the control notch 178, the bracket 162 releases the main lever 182 to the second firing position 202. This enables main rod 182 and piston 118 to move forward as urged by extension spring 122, thereby pressurizing gas cylinder 106.

(5) In a further variant, as shown in fig. 9 and 10, the lower end 60 is sealably fitted to the upper end 64 of the vertical circular opening 68 through the chamber 18, using a sealing gasket 120.

(6) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 2, 3, 7-12, the projectile loading mechanism 42 further includes a metering rod 234. The metering rod 234 is sized and shaped to sealably fit through the vertical circular opening 68 through the chamber 18 and has an orthogonal actuating rod 238 extending from its lower end 242 and a through hole 246 located above the actuating rod 238. The through-hole 246 is orthogonal to the rod 238 and the metering rod 234 and is sized and positioned to align with the chamber 18 when the rod 238 is placed against the stop surface 250. The actuating rod 238 is urged upwardly by the return compression spring 254 to rest against the lower end 258 of the vertical circular opening 68 in the chamber 18.

When positioned above the chamber 18 in the cylindrical chamber 36 during a cocking action, the through-hole 246 is filled with the particulate pellets 38. Just after actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism 30, the actuation rod 238 is pushed downwardly by the pivotally mounted secondary rod 262 to rest against the stop surface 250. This allows compressed gas 138 to eject particulate pellets 38 from chamber 18 and through barrel 22.

(7) In another variation of the present invention, the bolus loading mechanism 42 further comprises a middle lumen tube 266. A tube 266 extends downwardly from the lower end 60 of the cylindrical chamber 36. The lower portion 282 of the tube 266 provides a stop 286 for returning one end 290 of the compression spring 254. A trajectory guide 298 is provided. A guide 298 is positioned below the lower end 60 of the cylindrical chamber 36, has a hollow bore 302 sized to slidably fit around the tube 266 and has a vertical slot 306 extending downward a first predetermined distance 308 from the lower end 60. The groove 306 terminates in the stop surface 250. Trajectory guide 298 is positioned about tube 266 and provides a support platform 310 for attaching the shot storage magazine 34. A metering rod 234 is provided. The rod 234 is cylindrical in shape, is sized to slidably fit within the tube 266 and has an orthogonal actuation rod 238 extending from its lower end 242. The metering rod 234 has a through hole 246 located above the actuating rod 238. The through-hole 246 is orthogonal to the rod 238 and the metering rod 234 and is sized and positioned to align with the chamber 18 when the rod 238 is placed against the stop surface 250. The return compression spring 254 urges the metering rod 234 upwardly to rest against the lower end 258 of the vertical circular opening 68 in the chamber 18. A sub-lever 262 is provided. Rod 262 has a first end 314 and a second end 318 and is pivotally mounted to cover 322 for compressed gas source 14. The first end 314 of the secondary lever 262 includes a metering slot 264 that surrounds the actuation lever 238. Upon actuation of the gas release mechanism 30, the second end 318 of the secondary rod 262 is pushed upward by the cam 330 during forward movement of the firing preparation mechanism 46. Upward movement of the second end 318 of the secondary rod 262 moves the actuating rod 238 downward, compressing the return compression spring 254 and aligning the through hole 246 of the metering rod 234 with the chamber 18. This allows compressed gas 138 to drive particulate pellets 38 out of chamber 18 and through barrel 22. Downward movement of the second end 318 of the secondary rod 262 causes the actuation rod 238 to move upward as urged by the return compression spring 254. This allows the particle pellet 38 to fill the through hole 246 of the metering rod 234 as it moves within the pellet storage magazine 34 surrounded by the particle pellet 38.

(8) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 1-6, 11 and 12, the spring compression mechanism 126 further includes a main gear rack 334. The rack 334 is slidably positioned in a channel 338 in the stock 50, with gear teeth 342 positioned on an upper surface 346 and with a mounting fixture 350 adjacent a front end 354 for attachment of a slide handle 358. A reduction gear assembly 362 is provided. The gear drive 362 is mounted to the outer cover 322 of the gas cylinder 106. A pinion rack 370 is provided. The secondary rack 370 is attached below the piston 118 and positioned above the reduction gear assembly 362. The main gear rack 334 engages the reduction gear transmission 362, and the reduction gear transmission 362 engages the pinion rack 370. Rearward movement of the slide handle 358 moves the main gear rack 334 rearward, rotating the reduction gear drive 362 and moving the piston 118 rearward, thereby compressing the compression spring 122.

(9) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 7 and 8, 11, 12, a downwardly directed cam lobe 268 is provided. The cam lobe 268 is positioned below the metering slot 264 orthogonally to the metering slot 264. A cam actuation tab 272 is provided. The tab 272 is positioned adjacent to the lateral edge 276 and the front end 280 of the upper surface 284 of the main gear rack 334. The actuation tab 272 has a contoured inner surface 288. The contoured inner surface 288 is sized, shaped, and positioned to engage the leading edge 292 of the cam lobe 268 as the main gear rack 334 is moved rearward and forward during operation of the firing preparation mechanism 46. Engagement of the cam lobe 268 during operation of the firing preparation mechanism 46 causes the metering rod 234 to move upwardly and subsequently causes the metering rod 234 to move downwardly. This movement serves to remove any particulate pellets 38 that are stuck to the metering rod 234.

(10) In another variation, during operation of the firing preparation mechanism 46, the engagement of the cam lobe 268 with the cam actuation tab 272 during forward movement of the main gear rack 334 provides audible confirmation of the completion of the operation.

(11) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 2-6, 11 and 12, the control slot 348 moving in cooperation with the primary lever 182 retains the first end 374 of the inner safety pivot 154 in the raised position 378 during rearward movement of the control slot 348. This causes the second end 382 of the pivot member 154 to engage the upper projection 150 at the upper end 390 of the trigger 142 of the compressed gas release mechanism 30, thereby preventing actuation of the mechanism 30. Upon completion of the forward movement of the main gear rack 334 and the control slot 348, the control slot 348 causes the first end 374 of the inner safety pivot 154 to move downwardly to the lowered position 380. This downward movement allows the upper projection 150 of the trigger 142 to be released and allows the gas release mechanism 30 to be actuated.

(12) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 1 and 16, the stock 50 also includes a sight glass 422. A sight glass 422 is positioned adjacent to the magazine 34 and allows for viewing of the height 426 of the particulate pellets 38 contained in the magazine 34.

(13) In yet another variation, as shown in FIGS. 3, 3A-3E, a cocking mechanism control 336 is provided. The cocking mechanism controller 336 includes a receiving notch 340. The receiving notch 340 is positioned in an outboard rail 344 of the firing preparation mechanism 46. A blocking portion 348 is provided. The blocking portion 348 is pivotally mounted to an underside 352 of the pinion rack 370. The blocking portion 348 is urged toward the receiving recess 340 by a spring 356. The blocking portion 348 has a retention projection 360 at a lower edge 364. The retention tab 360 is sized and shaped to engage the receiving recess 340 and has an inclined surface 368 extending upwardly above the retention tab 360. An actuating portion 372 is provided. The actuating portion 372 is attached to the secondary lever 262 adjacent the first end 314. Upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism 30, the actuating portion 372 moves downward together with the secondary lever 262. The actuation portion 372 bears against the ramped surface 368 of the blocking portion 348 and pushes the retention tab 360 out of the receiving recess 340, thereby allowing actuation of the firing preparation mechanism 46.

(14) In another variation, as shown in fig. 19 and 20, gun 10 uses a pre-charge CO₂The cartridge 88 serves as the source of pressurized gas 14 and the gun 10 further includes a cylindrical cartridge chamber 434. The cartridge chamber 434 is sized and shaped to enclose the CO₂A barrel 88 and having a sealable opening 438 at a first end 442 for introduction into the barrel 88. A female seat 446 positioned at second end 450 is provided. Seat 446 is sized and shaped to sealably fit around discharge end 454 of cartridge 88. A hollow piercing needle 458 is positioned within the seat 446, and a one-way valve 462 is fluidly connected to the piercing needle 458. A sealing cap 466 is provided. Cap 466 is removably attached to cartridge cavity 434 by mating threads 470. The threading of the cap 466 pushes the cartridge 88 against the puncture needle 458. A pressure vessel 474 is provided. The pressure vessel 474 is fluidly connected to a metering device 478. Upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism 30, the metering device 478 allows a predetermined amount of compressed gas 138 to enter the chamber 18.

(15) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 4-6, 19 and 20, the compressed gas release mechanism 30 further includes a trigger 142. Trigger 142 is rotatably mounted to stock 50 and urged in a counterclockwise direction by arcuate trigger return spring 52. Trigger return spring 52 is constrained by an arcuate channel 56 in butt stock 50. The trigger 142 has an upper protrusion 150. The upper projection 150 engages the inner safety pivot 154. The safety pivot 154 prevents release of the latch mechanism 130 unless the firing preparation is complete. The trigger 142 has a lift ramp 158 positioned rearward of the upper projection 150. As the trigger 142 is pivoted rearward, the lift ramp 158 pushes the release bracket 162 of the latch mechanism 130 upward against the downward-pushing compression spring 166. The release bracket 162 pivots on a fitting 170 attached to the butt 50, has an upwardly directed travel limit arm 164 positioned within a notch 168 in the butt 50, and has a downwardly facing rib 174. The rib 174 releasably engages an upwardly facing control notch 482 in the loading rod 486. The loading rod 486 is urged forward by a loading coil spring 490 having an upwardly inclined ramp 494 at the rear end 498 positioned rearward of the control notch 482. The chamfer 494 guides the rib 174 into the control notch 482.

During a cocking action, the loading rod 486 moves rearward in a channel (not shown) in the butt stock 50. When the rib 174 engages the control notch 482, the release bracket 162 retains the loading rod 486 in the first, firing ready position 502. When the trigger 142 is pivoted rearward, thereby lifting the release bracket 162 and lifting the rib 174 from the control notch 482, the release bracket 162 releases the loading rod 486 to the second firing position 506. This enables the loading rod 486 to move forward as urged by the loading coil spring 490. The loading rod 486 actuates the projectile loading mechanism 42 and the metering device 478.

(16) In another variation of the invention, as shown in FIG. 22, the gun 10 uses a pneumatically pumped reservoir 94 as the source of compressed gas 14, and the gun 10 further includes a gas cylinder 514. The gas cylinder 514 has an inlet valve 518 and an outlet valve 522. A piston 526 is provided. The piston 526 is sealably fitted within the gas cylinder 514. A pumping mechanism 530 is provided. The pumping mechanism 530 is mechanically coupled to the piston 526 and moves the piston 526 from an extended position 534 to a compressed position 538 within the gas cylinder 514. The inlet valve 518 is in the open position 542 when the piston 526 is moved from the compressed position 538 to the extended position 534, and the inlet valve 518 is in the closed position (not shown) when the piston 526 is moved from the extended position 534 to the compressed position 538. The outlet valve 522 is in a closed position (not shown) when the piston 526 is moved from the compressed position 538 to the extended position 534, and the outlet valve 522 is in an open position 550 when the piston 526 is moved from the extended position 534 to the compressed position 538.

Reservoir 94 is fluidly connected to outlet valve 522 and chamber 18. Upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism 30, the shot load mechanism 42 allows a predetermined amount of compressed gas 138 to enter the chamber 18. Repeated movement of the piston 526 within the cylinder 514 by the pumping mechanism 530 from the extended position 534 to the compressed position 538 will increase the pressure within the gas reservoir 94, thereby allowing the increased force to eject the particulate projectile 38 from the chamber 18 once the pressure is released by the compressed gas release mechanism 30.

(17) In another variation, as shown in fig. 4-6, 19 and 20, the compressed gas release mechanism 30 further includes a trigger 142. Trigger 142 is rotatably mounted to stock 50 and urged in a counterclockwise direction by arcuate trigger return spring 52. Trigger return spring 52 is constrained by an arcuate channel 56 in butt stock 50. The trigger 142 has an upper protrusion 150. The upper projection 150 engages the inner safety pivot 154. The safety pivot 154 prevents release of the latch mechanism 130 unless the cocking action is completed. The trigger 142 has a lift ramp 158 positioned rearward of the upper projection 150. As the trigger 142 is pivoted rearward, the lift ramp 158 pushes the release bracket 162 of the latch mechanism 130 upward against the downward-pushing compression spring 166. The release bracket 162 pivots on a fitting 170 attached to the butt 50, has an upwardly directed travel limit arm 164 positioned within a notch 168 in the butt 50, and has a downwardly facing rib 174. The rib 174 releasably engages an upwardly facing control notch 482 in the loading rod 486. The loading rod 486 is urged forward by a loading coil spring 490 having an upwardly inclined ramp 494 at the rear end 498 positioned rearward of the control notch 482. The chamfer 494 guides the rib 174 into the control notch 482.

During a cocking action, the loading rod 486 moves rearward in a channel (not shown) in the butt stock 50. When the rib 174 engages the control notch 482, the release bracket 162 retains the loading rod 486 in the first firing preparation position 502. When the trigger 142 is pivoted rearward, thereby lifting the release bracket 162 and lifting the rib 174 from the control notch 482, the release bracket 162 releases the loading rod 486 to the second firing position 506. This allows the loading rod 486 to move forward as urged by the loading coil spring 490. The loading rod 486 actuates the shot loading mechanism 42 and the metering device 478.

(18) In another variation, as shown in FIG. 21, gun 10 uses a rechargeable compressed gas cylinder 90 as compressed gas source 14. The gas cylinder 90 has a shut-off valve 574 and an attachment fitting 578 positioned adjacent to the first end 582. A mating attachment fitting 586 is provided. A mating attachment fitting 586 is mounted to the support stock 50 and fluidly connected to the metering device 478. A metering device 478 is fluidly connected to chamber 18, metering device 478 allowing a predetermined amount of compressed gas 138 to enter chamber 18 upon actuation of compressed gas release mechanism 30. The filled refillable compressed gas cylinder 90 is attached to the mating attachment fitting 586, the stop valve 574 is opened, and the compressed gas 138 is released through the metering device 478 upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism 30.

(19) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 4-6, 19 and 20, the compressed gas release mechanism 30 further includes a trigger 142. Trigger 142 is rotatably mounted to stock 50 and urged in a counterclockwise direction by arcuate trigger return spring 52. Trigger return spring 52 is constrained by an arcuate channel 56 in butt stock 50. The trigger 142 has an upper protrusion 150. The upper projection 150 engages the inner safety pivot 154. The safety pivot 154 prevents release of the latch mechanism 130 unless the cocking action is completed. The trigger 142 has a lift ramp 158 positioned behind the upper projection 150. As the trigger 142 is pivoted rearward, the lift ramp 158 pushes the release bracket 162 of the latch mechanism 130 upward against the downward-pushing compression spring 166. The release bracket 162 pivots on a fitting 170 attached to the butt 50, has an upwardly directed travel limit arm 164 positioned within a notch 168 in the butt 50, and has a downwardly facing rib 174. The rib 174 releasably engages an upwardly facing control notch 482 in the loading rod 486. The loading rod 486 is urged forward by a loading coil spring 490 having an upwardly inclined ramp 494 at the rear end 498 located rearward of the control notch 482. The chamfer 494 guides the rib 174 into the control notch 482.

During a cocking action, the loading rod 486 moves rearward in a channel (not shown) in the butt stock 50. When the rib 174 engages the control notch 482, the release bracket 162 retains the loading rod 486 in the first firing preparation position 502. When the trigger 142 is pivoted rearward, thereby lifting the release bracket 162 and lifting the rib 174 from the control notch 482, the release bracket 162 releases the loading rod 486 to the second firing position 506. This enables the loading rod 486 to move forward as urged by the loading coil spring 490. The loading rod 486 actuates the projectile loading mechanism 42 and the metering device 478.

(20) In another variation, as shown in fig. 23, the gun 10 uses an external compressed gas line 102 as the compressed gas source 14, and the gun 10 further includes the external compressed gas line 102. Line 102 is connected to a compressed gas line 592 and has a shutoff valve 594 and an attachment fitting 598 positioned adjacent to first end 602. A mating attachment fitting 606 is provided. Mating attachment fitting 606 is mounted to support stock 50 and is fluidly connected to metering device 478. Metering device 478 is fluidly connected to chamber 18. Upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism 30, the metering device 478 allows a predetermined amount of compressed gas 138 to enter the chamber 18. The external compressed gas line 102 is attached to the mating attachment fitting 606, the shut-off valve 594 is opened, and the compressed gas 138 is released through the metering device 478 upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism 30.

(21) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 4-6, 19 and 20, the compressed gas release mechanism 30 further includes a trigger 142. Trigger 142 is rotatably mounted to stock 50 and urged in a counterclockwise direction by arcuate trigger return spring 52. Trigger return spring 52 is constrained by an arcuate channel 56 in butt stock 50. The trigger 142 has an upper protrusion 150. The upper projection 150 engages the inner safety pivot 154. The safety pivot 154 prevents release of the latch mechanism 130 unless the cocking action is completed. The trigger 142 has a lift ramp 158 positioned behind the upper projection 150. As the trigger 142 is pivoted rearward, the lift ramp 158 pushes the release bracket 162 of the latch mechanism 130 upward against the downward-pushing compression spring 166. The release bracket 162 pivots on a fitting 170 attached to the butt 50, has an upwardly directed travel limit arm 164 positioned within a notch 168 in the butt 50, and has a downwardly facing rib 174. The rib 174 releasably engages an upwardly facing control notch 482 in the loading rod 486. The loading rod 486 is urged forward by a loading coil spring 490 having an upwardly inclined ramp 494 at the rear end 498 located rearward of the control notch 482. The chamfer 494 guides the rib 174 into the control notch 482.

During a cocking action, the loading rod 486 moves rearward in a channel (not shown) in the butt stock 50. When the rib 174 engages the control notch 482, the release bracket 162 retains the loading rod 486 in the first firing preparation position 502. When the trigger 142 is pivoted rearward, thereby lifting the release bracket 162 and lifting the rib 174 from the control notch 482, the release bracket 162 releases the loading rod 486 to the second firing position 506. This enables the loading rod 486 to move forward as urged by the loading coil spring 490. The loading rod 486 actuates the shot loading mechanism 42 and the metering device 478.

(22) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 15, the pistol grip 610 and foreguard 614 supporting the stock 50 have flat lower surfaces 618, 622. The flat surfaces 618, 622 allow the insecticidal gun 10 to be modified to be balanced in an upright position 626 for adding particulate projectiles 38 to the projectile storage magazine 34.

(23) In another variation of the present invention, as shown in fig. 16-18, the improved insecticidal gun 10 further includes a laser aiming device 630. The laser targeting device 630 includes a battery powered laser 634. The laser 634 is capable of producing a laser aiming spot 638. A housing 642 is provided. The housing 642 is adapted to house the laser 634, the battery power supply 646 and the control circuitry 650 for the laser 634. An attachment mechanism 654 is provided. The attachment mechanism 654 is adapted to attach the laser targeting device 630 adjacent the distal end 658 of the barrel 22.

(24) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 16, the attachment mechanism 654 is integrally formed with the distal end 658 of the barrel 22.

(25) In yet another variation, as shown in fig. 17, the attachment mechanism 654 is adapted to removably attach the laser targeting device 630 to the distal end 658 of the barrel 22.

(26) In another variation, the laser aiming device 630 includes a height adjustment 662 and an offset adjustment 666 for an aiming point 670 of the laser aiming spot 638.

(27) In yet another variation, a power switch 674 is provided. Switch 674 controls the power to laser 634.

(28) In yet another variation, the power switch 674 is mounted on the housing 642.

(29) In a final variation of the invention, as shown in fig. 18, the power switch 674 is integral with the trigger 142. Initial rearward movement of the trigger 142 completes the circuit 678 within the power switch 674, thereby providing a laser aiming spot 638 prior to actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism 30.

The compact improved insecticidal gun 10 has been described with reference to specific embodiments. Other modifications and gains may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A compact, improved insecticidal gun comprising:

a source of a compressed gas is provided,

a chamber fluidly connected to the source of compressed gas;

a barrel disposed at a distal end of the chamber;

a compressed gas release mechanism connected to the compressed gas source;

a pellet storage magazine storing pellet projectiles and disposed adjacent to the chamber;

the pellet storage magazine includes:

a cylindrical chamber having a first lateral pellet loading chute and a second lateral pellet loading chute, the loading chutes extending from an upper edge of the cylindrical chamber to a base of the cylindrical chamber, the chamber having a circular opening at a lower end;

the lower end is sealably fitted to the upper end of a vertical circular opening through the chamber;

a rectangular pellet feed box surrounding the cylindrical chamber and providing additional space for particulate pellets outside the cylindrical chamber;

a hingedly attached sealing cover having first and second semi-circular ridges on an underside of the cover, the ridges designed to encircle an upper edge of the cylindrical chamber adjacent the first and second lateral projectile loading slots;

the sealing lid having a peripheral channel on the underside sized, shaped and arranged to seal the rectangular projectile feed magazine when the sealing lid is moved to a closed position; and

a lid latching mechanism disposed opposite a hinge for the sealing lid;

a pellet loading mechanism that moves the particulate pellets from the magazine into the chamber;

a cocking mechanism mechanically coupling said source of compressed gas, said compressed gas release mechanism and said projectile loading mechanism;

an automatic cocking ready status indicator that moves to a raised visible position after cocking the gun and moves to a lowered concealed position after firing the gun;

an external manual safety mechanism movable by a user from a safety position to a firing position while remaining held on the gun;

a stock housing and supporting the source of compressed gas, the compressed gas release mechanism, the barrel, the chamber, the pellet storage magazine, the cocking mechanism, and the pellet loading mechanism;

wherein said pellet loading mechanism accumulates a predetermined amount of said particulate pellets and positions said pellets in said chamber when said gun is cocked by said cocking mechanism; and upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism, the projectile is ejected from the chamber into the barrel and out of the gun.

2. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 1, wherein said source of compressed gas is selected from the group consisting of:

prefilled CO₂A cartridge, a rechargeable compressed gas cylinder, a pneumatically pumped gas reservoir, a spring actuated compressed gas system and an external compressed gas line.

3. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 2, wherein said spring actuated compressed gas system further comprises:

a gas cylinder having a front end and a rear end and fluidly connected to the chamber at the front end;

a piston sealably fitted in the gas cylinder and disposed in the gas cylinder;

a compression spring urging the piston toward the front end;

a spring compression mechanism urging the piston toward the rear end and compressing the compression spring;

a latch mechanism releasably retaining the piston adjacent the rear end and retaining the compression spring in a compressed state; and

wherein a user operates the cocking mechanism, the spring compression mechanism is operated, the piston is pushed towards the rear end of the gas cylinder, the spring is compressed and the spring and piston are held by the latch mechanism until released, thereby enabling the piston to move rapidly towards the front end of the gas cylinder, thereby providing a burst of compressed gas in the gas cylinder and to the connected chamber.

4. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 3, wherein said compressed gas release mechanism further comprises:

a trigger rotatably mounted to the stock and urged in a counterclockwise direction by an arcuate trigger return spring constrained by an arcuate channel in the stock;

the trigger has an upper projection that engages an internal safety pivot that prevents release of the latch mechanism unless operation of the firing preparation mechanism is complete;

the trigger has a lift ramp disposed rearward of the upper projection, the lift ramp pushing the release bracket of the latch mechanism upward against a downward-pushing compression spring when the trigger is pivoted rearward;

the release bracket is pivotally mounted to the stock and has an upwardly directed travel limiting arm disposed within a recess in the stock and has a downwardly facing rib that releasably engages an upwardly facing control recess in the main bar of the latch mechanism;

the main rod is attached to the piston, has an upwardly inclined ramp at a rear end disposed behind the control notch, the ramp guiding the rib into the control notch, the main rod moving rearwardly in a channel in the stock during operation of the cocking mechanism; and

the release bracket holds the main lever in a first firing ready position when the rib engages the control notch, and releases the main lever to a second firing position when the trigger is pivoted rearwardly, lifting the release bracket and raising the rib from the control notch, enabling the main lever and the piston to move forward as urged by the compression spring, thereby pressurizing the gas cylinder.

5. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 1, wherein said lower end is sealably fitted to said upper end of said vertical circular opening through said chamber using a sealing gasket.

6. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 4, wherein said pellet loading mechanism further comprises:

a metering rod sized and shaped to sealably fit through the vertical circular opening through the chamber and having an orthogonal actuation rod extending from a lower end of the metering rod and a through hole disposed above the actuation rod, the through hole being orthogonal to the actuation rod and the metering rod and sized and disposed to align with the chamber when the actuation rod is placed against a stop surface;

the actuating rod is urged upwardly by a return compression spring to rest against the lower end of the vertical circular opening in the chamber;

during operation of the cocking mechanism, the through-hole is charged with the particulate pellets when disposed above the chamber in the cylindrical chamber; and

upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism, the actuating rod is pushed downwardly by a pivotally mounted secondary rod to rest against the stop surface, thereby allowing the compressed gas to eject the particulate pellets from the chamber and through the barrel.

7. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 6, wherein said pellet loading mechanism further comprises:

a middle lumen tube extending downwardly from a lower end of the cylindrical chamber;

the lower part of the tube provides a stop part for one end of the return compression spring;

a track guide disposed below the cylindrical chamber, having a hollow bore sized to slidably fit around the tube, and having a vertical slot extending downward a first predetermined distance from the lower end and terminating in a stop surface;

the trajectory guide is disposed around the tube and provides a support platform for attaching the shot storage magazine;

a metering rod that is cylindrical in shape and sized to slidably fit within the tube, and has an orthogonal actuation rod extending from a lower end of the metering rod and a through-hole disposed above the actuation rod, the through-hole being orthogonal to the actuation rod and the metering rod and sized and disposed to align with the chamber when the actuation rod is placed against the stop surface;

the return compression spring urging the metering rod upwardly to rest against the lower end of the vertical circular opening in the chamber; and

a secondary rod having a first end and a second end, pivotally mounted to a cap for the source of pressurized gas, the first end including a metering slot that encircles the actuation rod, the second end being urged upward by a cam during forward movement of the cocking mechanism;

wherein upward movement of the second end of the secondary rod moves the actuating rod downward, thereby compressing the return compression spring and aligning the through-hole of the metering rod with the chamber, thereby allowing the compressed gas to drive the particulate pellets out of the chamber and through the barrel;

wherein downward movement of the second end of the secondary rod causes the actuating rod to move upwardly as urged by the return compression spring, the pellet loading the through-hole of the metering rod as the metering rod moves in the pellet storage magazine surrounded by the pellet.

8. The improved insecticide gun of claim 7, wherein said spring compression mechanism further comprises:

a main gear rack slidably disposed in a channel in the stock, having gear teeth disposed on an upper surface and having a mounting clip adjacent a forward end for attaching a slide handle;

a reduction gear transmission mounted to an outer cover of the gas cylinder;

a pinion rack attached below the piston and disposed above the reduction gear transmission;

the main gear rack engages the reduction gear drive and the reduction gear drive engages the pinion rack; and

wherein the backward movement of the slide handle moves the main gear rack backward, rotates the reduction gear transmission, and moves the piston backward, thereby compressing the compression spring.

9. The improved insecticide gun of claim 8, wherein said insecticide gun further comprises:

a downwardly directed cam lobe disposed below and orthogonal to the metering slot;

a cam actuation tab disposed adjacent to a lateral edge and a front end of an upper surface of the main gear rack, the actuation tab having a contoured inner surface;

the contoured inner surface sized, shaped, and configured to engage a leading edge of the cam lobe as the main gear rack is moved rearward and forward during operation of the cocking mechanism;

engagement of the cam lobe causes the metering rod to move upwardly during operation of the cocking mechanism, which in turn causes the metering rod to move downwardly, which movement serves to remove any particulate pellets that are stuck to the metering rod.

10. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 9, wherein during operation of said cocking mechanism, engagement of said cam lobe with said cam actuation tab during forward movement of said main gear rack provides audible confirmation of completion of said operation.

11. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 9, wherein:

a control slot moving in cooperation with a main bar holds a first end of an inner safety pivot in a raised position during rearward movement of the control slot causing a second end of the pivot to engage an upper protrusion at an upper end of a trigger of the compressed gas release mechanism, thereby preventing actuation of the mechanism; and

upon completion of forward movement of the main gear rack and the control slot, the control slot causes the first end of the inner safety pivot to move downward to a lowered position, the downward movement allowing the upper protrusion of the trigger to be released and the gas release mechanism to be actuated.

12. The compact improved insecticidal gun of claim 1, wherein said stock further comprises a sight glass positioned adjacent to said magazine and allowing for viewing of a height of said particulate pellets contained in said magazine.

13. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 8, wherein said insecticide gun further comprises:

a cocking mechanism controller, the cocking mechanism controller comprising:

a receiving notch disposed in an outboard rail of the cocking mechanism;

a blocking portion pivotably mounted to a lower side of the pinion rack, the blocking portion being urged toward the receiving recess by a spring;

the blocking portion having a retention projection at a lower edge sized and shaped to engage the receiving recess and having an inclined surface extending upwardly above the retention projection;

an actuation portion attached to the secondary lever adjacent the first end, the actuation portion moving downward with the secondary lever upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism, bearing on the sloped surface of the blocking portion and pushing the retention tab out of the receiving notch, thereby allowing actuation of the firing preparation mechanism.

14. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 2, wherein said gun uses pre-filled CO₂The cartridge being a source of compressed gas, the gun further comprising:

a cylindrical cartridge chamber sized and shaped to enclose the CO₂A barrel and having a sealable opening at a first end for guidingA second end of the cartridge having a concave seat sized and shaped to fit in a sealable manner around a discharge end of the cartridge, the seat having a hollow piercing needle disposed therein;

a sealing cap removably attached to the cartridge chamber by mating threads, the threading of the cap pushing the cartridge against the piercing needle;

a pressure vessel fluidly connected to a metering device; and

upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism, the metering device allows a predetermined amount of compressed gas into the chamber.

15. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 14, wherein said compressed gas release mechanism further comprises:

the trigger having an upper projection that engages an internal safety pivot that prevents actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism unless the firing preparation action is completed;

the release bracket pivots on a fitting mounted to the stock, has an upwardly directed travel limit arm disposed within a recess in the stock, and has a downwardly facing rib that releasably engages an upwardly facing control recess in a loading rod;

said loading rod being urged forward by a loading coil spring, having an upwardly inclined ramp at a rear end disposed rearward of said control notch, said ramp guiding said rib into said control notch, said loading rod moving rearward in a channel in said stock during said cocking action; and

the release bracket holds the loading rod in a first firing ready position when the rib engages the control notch, and releases the loading rod to a second firing position when the trigger is pivoted rearward, lifting the release bracket and lifting the rib from the control notch, which enables the loading rod to move forward as urged by the loading coil spring, which actuates the pellet loading mechanism and the metering device.

16. The compact improved insecticidal gun according to claim 2, wherein said gun uses a pneumatically pumped air reservoir as a source of compressed gas, said gun further comprising:

a gas cylinder having an inlet valve and an outlet valve;

a piston sealingly fitted within the gas cylinder;

a pumping mechanism mechanically coupled to the piston and moving the piston from an extended position to a compressed position within the gas cylinder;

the inlet valve is in an open position when the piston moves from the compressed position to the extended position, and the inlet valve is in a closed position when the piston moves from the extended position to the compressed position;

the outlet valve is in a closed position when the piston moves from the compressed position to the extended position, and the outlet valve is in an open position when the piston moves from the extended position to the compressed position;

the reservoir is fluidly connected to the outlet valve and the chamber,

upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism, the projectile loading mechanism allows a predetermined amount of compressed gas into the chamber; and

wherein repeated movement of the piston within the gas cylinder from the extended position to the compressed position by the pumping mechanism increases the pressure within the gas reservoir, thereby allowing the particulate pellets to be ejected from the chamber with increased force upon release of the pressure by the compressed gas release mechanism.

17. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 16, wherein said compressed gas release mechanism further comprises:

the trigger has a lifting ramp disposed behind the upper protrusion, the lifting ramp pushing the release bracket of the latch mechanism upward against a downward-pushing compression spring when the trigger is moved rearward;

the release bracket pivots on a fitting mounted to the stock and has an upwardly directed travel limit arm disposed within a recess in the stock and has a downwardly facing rib that releasably engages an upwardly facing control recess in a loading rod;

the release bracket holds the loading rod in a first firing ready position when the rib engages the control notch, and releases the loading rod to a second firing position when the trigger is pivoted rearward, lifting the release bracket and lifting the rib from the control notch, which enables the loading rod to move forward as urged by the loading coil spring, which actuates the pellet loading mechanism.

18. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 2, wherein said gun uses a rechargeable compressed gas cylinder as a source of compressed gas, said gun further comprising:

a rechargeable compressed gas cylinder having a shut-off valve and an attachment fitting disposed adjacent to a first end;

a mating attachment fitting mounted to the stock and fluidly connected to a metering device;

the metering device is fluidly connected to the chamber and allows a predetermined amount of compressed gas into the chamber upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism; and

wherein a filled refillable compressed gas cylinder is attached to the mating attachment fitting, the shut-off valve is opened, and the compressed gas is released by the metering device upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism.

19. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 18, wherein said compressed gas release mechanism further comprises:

the release bracket pivots on a fitting attached to the stock and has an upwardly directed travel limit arm disposed within a recess in the stock and has a downwardly facing rib that releasably engages an upwardly facing control recess in a loading rod;

20. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 2, wherein said gun uses an external compressed gas line as a compressed gas source, said gun further comprising:

an external compressed gas line connected to a compressed gas source and having a shut-off valve and an attachment fitting positioned adjacent to the first end;

wherein the external compressed gas line is attached to the mating attachment fitting, the shut-off valve is opened, and the compressed gas is released through the metering device upon actuation of the compressed gas release mechanism.

21. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 20, wherein said compressed gas release mechanism further comprises:

the trigger has a lift ramp disposed rearward of the upper projection, the lift ramp pushing the release bracket of the latch mechanism upward against a downwardly-pushing compression spring when the trigger is pivoted rearward;

when the rib engages the control notch, the release bracket holds the loading rod in a first firing ready position, and when the trigger is moved rearward, lifting the release bracket and lifting the rib from the control notch, the release bracket releases the loading rod to a second firing position, which enables the loading rod to move forward as urged by the loading coil spring, which actuates the pellet loading mechanism and the metering device.

22. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 1, wherein a pistol grip and a front fender of said stock have flat lower surfaces that allow said insecticide gun to be balanced in an upright position for adding said particulate pellets to said pellet storage magazine.

23. The compact improved insecticidal gun of claim 4, wherein said insecticidal gun further comprises a laser aiming device, said laser aiming device comprising:

a battery-powered laser capable of generating a laser aiming spot;

a housing adapted to house the laser, a battery power supply and control circuitry for the laser; and

an attachment mechanism adapted to attach the laser sighting device adjacent to a distal end of the barrel.

24. The compact improved insecticidal gun of claim 23, wherein said attachment mechanism is integrally formed with said distal end of said barrel.

25. The compact improved insecticidal gun of claim 23, wherein said attachment mechanism is adapted to removably attach said laser sighting device to said distal end of said barrel.

26. The compact improved insecticidal gun of claim 23, wherein said insecticidal gun further comprises a height adjustment and a deflection adjustment for an aiming point of said laser aiming spot.

27. The compact improved insecticidal gun of claim 23, wherein said insecticidal gun further comprises a power switch, said switch controlling power to said laser.

28. The compact improved insecticide gun of claim 27, wherein said insecticide gun further comprises said power switch mounted on said housing.

29. The compact improved insecticidal gun of claim 27, wherein said power switch is integral with said trigger, initial rearward movement of said trigger completing a circuit within said power switch to provide said laser aiming spot prior to actuation of said compressed gas release mechanism.