FR3121981A1 - Intermediate compensation system to dampen the recoil of a firearm - Google Patents

Abstract

Intermediate compensation system (10) for compensating and damping the recoil of a firearm fitted with a stock, comprising a main element (1) made of flexible, deformable and elastic material, comprising a plurality of cells (6) emerging on an internal surface (12) and ending blindly on a solid part (11) whose thickness is delimited by an external surface provided to form a support surface for a user's shoulder, the cells ( 6) having variable dimensions and/or densities depending on the areas of the internal surface (12) on which they open, and further comprising an elastically deformable skirt (5) extending around the periphery of the main element ( protruding from its internal surface.The intermediate compensation system is particularly intended to reduce the undesirable effects caused by the recoil of a firearm provided with a stock on which it is installed.Figure for the abstract: figure 2

Description

Intermediate compensation system to dampen the recoil of a firearm

The present invention relates to an intermediate compensation system for compensating and damping the recoil of a firearm.

The invention finds a preferred application for compensating and damping the recoil of a rifle comprising a stock used as a reaction support on the shoulder of the user of the firearm.

As is known, the recoil of a firearm is caused by more or less violent reaction forces when the ammunition is fired and the projectile, such as a bullet, leaves the barrel of the firearm under the the effect of the chemical reaction and the pyrotechnic effect of the powder contained in the casing of the ammunition when said ammunition is struck, this pyrotechnic effect causing very high pressure in the casing and consequently on the rear of the crimped bullet on the end of the case, said pressure allowing the projectile to be violently ejected from the case of the ammunition and the barrel in the direction of a target.

Recoil from a firearm causes discomfort due to the reaction between the butt of the firearm and the shoulder of the shooter. This reaction can cause shock, bruising and other trauma. Moreover, this discomfort is anticipated by the shooter, which causes a less accurate shot. These traumas caused by the recoil and the reaction of the butt on the shoulder of the shooter can be repeated during shooting exercises or during ball trap sessions.

Large caliber weapons increase this discomfort and the trauma caused. Studies in the field of osteopathy have shown that shooting a firearm, and in particular shooting with a rifle fitted with a butt, has an influence on the sternoclavicular joint, on which the firearm rests. fire, especially the butt. It is known that the collarbone serves as a bumper in case of a bad hit during a firearm shot. On the other hand, according to these studies, the pain associated with shooting is in particular pain in the shoulder, neck, spine, upper limbs, including contractures of the levator scapulae and contractures of the scalenes. This pain can lead to osteoarticular pathologies such as osteoarthritis.

These studies have shown that in the military, shooting with a firearm can induce lesions on the shoulder such as posterior instability of the shoulder, which can affect the sternoclavicular joint.

There are systems for mitigating the effects of the recoil of the weapon during a shot and these systems are based on the use of elastic materials. Soft elastomeric materials can be used but have a limited duration of effectiveness and modify the interaction with the shooter's clothing at the level of his shoulder on which the butt of the firearm rests.

With harder but less effective materials, the shooter can more easily reposition the butt of their firearm on their shoulder. The undesirable effects of the recoil of the firearm depend on several factors, such as the morphology of the shooter, his clothing and in particular the part located at the level of the shooter's shoulders, the type of firearm and in particular the power the recoil during the shot, and the intensity of repetition of the shots. Under certain conditions, a known device may reduce discomfort but will not be properly adapted to other shooting conditions, given the many influencing factors.

According to US Pat. No. 8,904,692 B2, one solution consists of an assembly of parts comprising in particular an anti-shock pad made of elastomeric material such as natural rubber.

Patent EP 3 067 654 B1 describes a recoil damping system comprising a pad made of elastomeric material, in contact with the shoulder of the user of the firearm such as a rifle, a mobile element able to slide in one direction substantially aligned with the direction of fire, guide elements of this sliding element, structural shock absorbers preferably made of elastomeric materials, positioned sandwiched between the movable element and a base receiving the shoe and the butt of the firearm. Nevertheless, this device is very complex and the number of its components makes its manufacturing cost very expensive.

It is also known from document US 2021/0025669 A1 to propose a device of the mass/spring/damper type incorporated in the stock of a firearm, the mass of the device serving as the main absorber of the recoil energy during a shot with the gun. However, this relatively complex device is installed in the butt of the firearm, which limits its application.

US patent 10,663,252 B1 proposes a device comprising at least two shock absorber systems based on elastomer elements, sandwiched between the butt of the firearm and a pad. However, this device cannot be adapted to any type of firearm stock and must be designed specifically with respect to the geometry of the receiving stock of the device.

The state of the art can also be illustrated by document US 2018/026 6787 A1 which proposes a device comprising at least one damper of the two-stage spring cylinder type, aligned substantially in the direction of the barrel of the firearm . This damper cooperates with a base forming a pad thanks to an actuating rod of said cylinder. However, this device is complex and not very suitable for several stock geometries.

In general, in the state of the art, the shock absorber devices are complex and expensive to produce, and often require specific arrangements on the butt of the firearm to receive them. In particular, it is common for a large part of the stock to be an integral part of the shock-absorbing devices.

On the other hand, the shock-absorbing devices known from the state of the art do not make it possible to distribute the recoil reaction forces on the shoulder of the user of the firearm so as to limit the tilting movements of the firearm, to enable the user of the firearm to reposition himself quickly and stably in an adjusted firing position on the target to be hit.

In other words, the state of the prior art highlights numerous drawbacks in terms of adaptation to the butts of existing firearms, either complex and costly technological solutions, or solutions which do not allow distribute over the shoulder of the shooter the force of the recoil of the firearm so as to limit on the one hand the parasitic movements of the firearm during a shot, parasitic movements which reduce the effectiveness of the shooter to quickly reach its target during the next shot, on the other hand to limit the effects of the shock caused by said recoil forces on the shoulder of the user of the firearm, effects resulting in trauma and in anticipation of these traumas which affect the ability to shoot accurately at the target during a sequence of repetitive shots.

The invention proposes to solve all or part of the aforementioned problems, in particular by offering an intermediate compensation system to dampen and compensate for the recoil of the firearm, the design of which makes it possible to favorably distribute the reaction forces of the recoil of the firearm. firearm, with the advantage of reducing the delay in readjusting the weapon in the direction of the target, which is favorable in particular for military and sensitive uses in the field of defence.

Another object of the invention is to propose a solution which is simple in design, not very complex and therefore inexpensive.

Another object of the invention is to be able to adapt the intermediate compensation system to a large number of existing weapons, without having to modify the butt of the firearm.

To this end, the invention proposes an intermediate compensation system for compensating and damping all or part of the shock caused by the recoil of a firearm fitted with a stock, comprising a main element made of flexible, deformable and elastic material. , comprising a plurality of cells opening onto an internal surface of the main element, and ending in a blind manner on a solid part, the thickness of which is delimited by an external surface intended to form a bearing surface for a shoulder of a user of the firearm, in which the cells of the main element have variable dimensions and/or densities depending on the zones of the internal surface on which they open;
said intermediate compensation system further comprising an elastically deformable skirt and extending around the periphery of the main element, projecting from its internal surface.

This intermediate compensation system thus allows a better distribution of the reaction forces on the shoulder of the user of the firearm, such as a rifle equipped with a butt, and consequently an attenuation of the reaction movements of the firearm when firing, especially the upward rocking motion of the firearm barrel.

Indeed, the variations in density and/or dimensions of the cells according to the zones advantageously provide variations in rigidity or flexibility within the main element, thus contributing to a measured and controlled distribution of the absorption of recoil.

Within the meaning of the invention, the density of the cells corresponds to a number of cells per surface unit, such as for example per cm2. In other words, it is possible to have a zone with a high density of cells (contributing to a greater flexibility of this zone) and another zone with a low density of cells (contributing to a lower flexibility of this other zone) .

This intermediate compensation system will therefore allow a quicker and more precise return to the aiming position towards the target of the firearm.

This intermediate compensation system, which is therefore of simple design with its honeycombed main element and its skirt which elastically encloses either the stock or a secondary element used to be fixed on the stock, therefore provides comfort and stability of use of the firearm in the event of repetitive firing.

This stability relates in particular to the undesirable phenomenon of the movement of the firearm caused by the recoil during a shot, this movement being characterized by the sliding of the butt on the shoulder of the shooter, and by the tilting movement towards the top of the gun barrel.

The invention will therefore allow controlled absorption of these parasitic and undesirable movements, thanks to the cells of variable dimensions which provide a variable behavior to crushing and deformation according to the zones, and thus reduce the trauma caused in particular on the shoulder. of the shooter and on his cheek.

The intermediate compensation system in fact comprises a main element made of flexible, deformable and elastic elastic material, which has a plurality of cells, for example in the shape of a honeycomb made during the molding of the main element. These cells extend in a direction substantially aligned with the firing axis of the firearm, and open freely on the side of the internal surface, and do not open on the opposite side on the external surface since they end on a thickness of flexible material, in this case the solid part which is bounded by this outer surface forming part of the main element and being intended to rest against the shoulder of the user of the firearm.

This solid part of the main element can be of a constant thickness, or else of a variable thickness so as to provide the main element with variable behavior in terms of crushing and deformation under the effect of the forces of recoil when firing the gun.

The outer surface of the main element can therefore advantageously be of different geometries so as to marry, under the best conditions of comfort and stability of the firearm during a shot, the shoulder of the user of the firearm, while deforming under the effect of recoil forces. This shape can be substantially rectilinear according to a view perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the butt of the firearm, or else be concave or convex.

On the other hand, this external shape can be rectilinear, concave or convex according to any cutting plane perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the butt of the firearm.

The main element, made of flexible material, therefore comprises a plurality of cells which are arranged and dimensioned so as to obtain variable crushing resistances, under the effect of the recoil forces of the firearm, according to the locations and dimensions of said cells.

This distribution and these variable dimensions of these cells are intended to obtain an elastic behavior of the intermediate compensation system so as to limit on the one hand the parasitic movements of the firearm, under the effect of recoil during firing, d on the other hand to dampen and absorb all or part of the energy of the firearm's recoil to greatly limit or even eliminate trauma to the shooter's shoulder.

The parasitic movements are mainly the upward movement of the barrel of the firearm (in other words the barrel rises), the stock resting on the shooter's shoulder and this support forming a kind of pivot connection, this upward movement depending on the ability of the device to absorb the energy of the recoil forces on the one hand, and on the other hand to distribute the recoil force and the deformation of the main element of the device according to the invention.

Advantageously, the distribution of the cells and their dimensions will be made in such a way as to obtain a greater resistance to crushing on an upper zone of the main element than on a lower zone.

On the other hand, each deformable cell contains air and under the effect of the crushing caused by the recoil forces during a shot, also behaves like a pneumatic shock absorber because the internal surface on which the cells open is in more or less tight contact with the external surface of the butt of the firearm (or the surface of a flexible element or of a rigid or semi-rigid plate as described later).

Thus, during the effect of the crushing and deformation of the cells of the main element, the air enclosed in each cell seeks to escape through said internal surface, this substantially turbulent gas flow causing a additional damping effect.

Advantageously, the main element is associated with the skirt making it possible to fix the main element around the external profile of the end of the butt closest to the shoulder of the user of the firearm, or else to fix and tighten the main element to a secondary element serving to be fixed on the end of the stock. This skirt, linked to the main element, can be produced during the molding of the main element and the thickness of its flexible wall allows rapid assembly and under elastic constraints for maintaining said main element according to the invention.

According to one possibility, the skirt comes from material with the main element. Thus, this skirt is an integral part of the main element.

Alternatively, the skirt is independent of the main element which is inserted inside said skirt. In other words, the main element is slipped inside the skirt, which is advantageous in order to be able to replace the main element, while keeping the same skirt.

This skirt can for example comprise an annular-shaped stiffener, produced by molding over the entire periphery of the skirt, so as to reinforce the resistance to elastic deformation of said skirt during its assembly around the surface of the butt of the firearm and to allow better elastic retention of the main element on the butt of the firearm.

In a particular embodiment, the variable dimensions of the cells concern their depths and/or their sections.

In other words, the depths and/or sections of the cells vary according to the zones of the main element, thus making it possible to vary the crushing behavior.

Reducing the cross-sections of the cells in a zone amounts to reducing the size of the cells and thus increasing the rigidity of the zone, and conversely increasing the cross-sections of the cells in a zone amounts to reducing the rigidity and therefore increasing the flexibility of the zone.

Similarly, reducing the depths of the cells in a zone amounts to increasing the rigidity of the zone, and conversely increasing the depths of the cells in a zone amounts to reducing the rigidity and therefore increasing the flexibility of the zone.

In a particular embodiment, the main element is elongated along a longitudinal axis and has at least two distinct zones, along this longitudinal axis, which are an upper zone and a lower zone, and the densities and/or the dimensions cells vary between these two zones.

Advantageously, the densities and/or the sections and/or the depths of the cells increase between the upper zone and the lower zone.

Thus, the upper zone is less flexible (or more rigid) than the lower zone, which is advantageous for limiting the lifting phenomena of the barrel of the firearm thanks to this variation of the flexibility along the main axis .

Advantageously, the main element also has a central zone, interposed between the upper zone and the lower zone along the longitudinal axis, and the densities and/or the dimensions of the cells vary between these three zones.

Advantageously, the densities and/or the sections and/or the depths of the cells increase between the upper zone and the central zone and also between the central zone and the lower zone.

Thus, the upper zone is less flexible than the central zone, itself less flexible than the lower zone, which is even more advantageous for limiting the lifting phenomena of the barrel of the firearm thanks to this finer variation of flexibility along the main axis.

According to one characteristic, the main element is elongated along a longitudinal axis and has two side parts, on either side of this longitudinal axis, which are a right side part and a left side part, and the dimensions of the cells vary between these two side parts.

Such a right/left asymmetry can be interesting depending on whether the shooter is right-handed or left-handed, to control the lateral parasitic movements at the time of the shot.

According to one possibility, the flexible, deformable and elastic material constituting the main element is chosen from a rubber-based elastomer, a polyurethane elastomer, a silicone-based material.

According to another possibility, the flexible, deformable and elastic material constituting the main element has a Shore A hardness which is between 10 and 70 Shore A, and for example between 15 and 50 Shore A.

Advantageously, the flexible, deformable and elastic material constituting the main element is a silicone-based material which has a Shore A hardness which is between 10 and 60 Shore A, and for example between 15 and 35 Shore A.

Indeed, the choice of this type of silicone-based material is particularly advantageous for the invention.

In a first embodiment, the intermediate compensation system comprises only the main element associated with the skirt.

In a second embodiment, the intermediate compensation system further comprises a rigid or semi-rigid secondary element, provided with a plate which has a connection means, such as for example a fixing hole, suitable for fixing on one end of the butt, in which this plate is received inside the skirt by being placed against the internal surface of the main element.

Thus, the main element made of flexible material is fixed to a secondary element comprising a rigid or semi-rigid plate (for example made of plastic material or composite material, or aluminum alloy, or any other metal alloy), such a plate being intended to secure the intermediate compensation system to the end of the butt of the firearm.

This rigid or semi-rigid secondary element therefore allows rapid attachment of the intermediate compensation system to the end of the butt of the firearm, either by attachment using screws, or by attachment of the quarter bayonet type. turn, or by fixing the slide type with quick assembly limit switch and optional means of locking after assembly, and other means of connection well known to those skilled in the art.

In this second embodiment, the crushing effect causes a deformation of the cells and the air trapped in each cell, which cannot escape (because it is stuck by the plate), will therefore be compressed, which causes a damping effect. and absorbing energy from recoil forces of the firearm when fired. This damping and energy absorption effect is added to the damping effect generated by the deformation of the flexible material of the main element and of any flexible element interposed between the main element and the plate. .

Advantageously, the plate is clamped at the periphery by the skirt.

Thus, the plate is mounted snugly inside the skirt, so that the skirt hugs the plate on its contour.

According to a first possibility, the plate is placed directly in contact against the internal surface of the main element, and for example the plate is glued against this internal surface.

As a variant, according to a second possibility, the plate is placed against the internal surface of the main element by means of a flexible element interposed between the plate and the internal surface, this flexible element being made of a flexible material, deformable and elastic.

Thus, the plate is coated with a flexible element forming a layer of flexible material, such as an elastomer or a silicone material, this layer being produced on the inside of the plate which comes against the internal surface of the main element. This flexible element is intended to increase the power of absorption of the shock associated with the recoil effect of the firearm during a shot, this flexible element also being intended to cooperate by more or less adhesive contact with the surface inside the main element into which the cells open, for example in the form of a honeycomb.

Advantageously, the flexible element is glued against the internal surface of the main element.

Thus, the contact interface between the flexible element and the main element can be secured using an adhesive material.

The characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the detailed description below, of two non-limiting examples, made with reference to the appended figures in which:

shows a perspective view on the outside of the back of a first intermediate compensation system according to the invention,

shows a perspective view from the inside of the first intermediate system for compensating the leading to an internal surface,

shows a front view of the main element of the first intermediate system for compensating the ,

represents a view in section AA, according to the , of the main element of the first intermediate system for compensating the ,

is an isometric view of a second intermediate compensation system according to the invention, comprising a main element and a secondary element provided with a means of attachment to the butt of the firearm,

shows a rear view and in section AA of the second intermediate system for compensating the ,

is an exploded interior side perspective view of the component parts of the second intermediate pressure compensation system ,

is an exploded exterior side perspective view of the component parts of the second intermediate pressure compensation system ,

is an exploded exterior side isometric view of the second intermediate pressure compensation system , with the flexible element and the secondary element glued to each other.

[Detailed description of embodiments of the invention]

With reference to the illustrative drawings of the preceding figures describing two embodiments of an intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention, such an intermediate compensation system (10) comprising a main element (1) which can be used alone to solve the problems mentioned above.

This main element (1) is elongated in shape along a longitudinal axis, in other words it is longer than it is wide, like the free end of a gun butt. This main element (1) has, along this longitudinal axis, an upper zone (2) corresponding to the upper part of the end of the butt of the firearm, and a lower zone (3) corresponding to the lower part of the end of said stick, this stick not being shown on the .

The upper zone (2) is the highest part vertically, when the butt of the firearm provided with the intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention is resting on the shoulder of the user of the firearm.

As seen on the , the intermediate compensation system (10) also comprises a skirt (5) arranged around the periphery of the main element (1), this skirt (5) being intended to facilitate and maintain the fixing of the intermediate compensation system (10 ) around the butt end of the firearm. The intermediate compensation system (10) is made in one piece from a flexible material, such as a rubber-based elastomer, or a polyurethane elastomer, or more advantageously a silicone-based one. The main element (1) according to the invention being made of flexible elastic material, it is advantageously deformable and its elastically deformable skirt (5) can easily adapt to the geometry of the end of a butt of firearm when mounting the main element (1) on the butt of the firearm.

As seen on the , the main element (1) has an outer surface (13) intended to form a support surface for the shoulder of the user of the firearm.

As seen on the , the main element (1) comprises an internal surface (12) onto which open a plurality of cells (6) forming a honeycomb in the main element (1). The thickness and the height of the skirt (5) gives said skirt (5) a certain elastic flexibility so as to facilitate the mounting of the intermediate compensation system (10) around the end of a firearm butt. fire, while allowing the intermediate compensation system (10) to be maintained around said butt once installed in the manner of a sock, the skirt (5) covering the external surface of the end of the butt of the weapon fire, while adapting in a deformable and elastic way to the covering surface of the said stick, until the inner free surface into which the cells open comes into contact with the surface of the stick opposite the said surface free interior of the main element (1). It should be noted that, on the , the illustrated skirt (5) is short, in other words it protrudes a short length vis-à-vis the internal surface (2), but of course, according to the invention, this skirt (5) can be longer , depending on the butt of the weapon. For example, such a skirt (5) may have a length, measured starting from the internal surface (12) in a direction orthogonal to this internal surface (12), of between 1 and 15 cm, and for example between 3 and 10 cm.

The represents a front view of the main element (1), highlighting the plurality of cells (6) forming a honeycomb, these cells (6) opening onto the internal surface (12) of the main element ( 1). The also indicate three identified zones (2), (3), (4), these zones separating the main element (1) into three parts, the zone (2) corresponding to the upper part of the main element (1), the zone (4) the central part, and zone (3) the lower part. The limits of these three zones can correspond, in a non-limiting manner, to substantially one third each of the length of the main element (1). Each of these three zones has a specific density of cells (6). This distribution of the three zones can also be chosen differently, depending on the distribution of the deformations of the main element (1) under the effect of the recoil forces of the firearm, the main element (1) being in support of reaction with the shoulder of the firearm user.

The is a view according to section AA of the . This view highlights the shape of the skirt (5) of the main element (1), delimited by an internal surface (50) cooperating by elastic contact with the external surface of the end of the butt of the firearm. fire not shown in the figure.

The also highlights an example of the geometric shape of the cells (6), the internal surface (12) onto which the cells (6) open, the external surface (13) of the main element (1) intended to be in contact with the shoulder of the user of the firearm, a solid part (11) of the main element (1) on which end the bottom of the cells (6) which are blind.

In this non-limiting embodiment illustrated in and in Figures 2 and 3, the cells (6) have a hexagonal section, and a variable depth depending on their position. Flexible material (14) separates the cells from each other. These cells can be distributed equidistantly between them, as shown in a non-limiting manner in the . They can also be distributed in a non-equidistant manner. The section of the cells can be of a shape other than hexagonal, such as for example circular, or even rectangular, or even oblong, or of any shape whatsoever. It is also possible to make cells whose section differs depending on the location on the main element (1).

The depth of each cell is delimited by the limit of the internal surface (12) and the limit of the solid part (11) on which the cells end blindly.

On the , the profile of the external surface (13) in the section plane AA is convex and the thickness of the solid part (11) delimited by the external surface (13) is substantially constant in the section plane AA. According to other embodiments, this thickness can be variable, the outer surface (13) can be flat, convex, depending on the crushing resistance desired for each of the zones (2), (3) and (4 ). Thus, increasing the section of the cells will tend to locally reduce the resistance to crushing of said zone of the main element (1) and will reduce the quantity of flexible material (14) separating the cells (6) from each other. . Reducing the depth of the cells (6) will tend to increase the amount of flexible material (14) and increase the resistance to crushing of the zone containing these cells (6) of reduced depth.

The geometry of the outer surface (13) can take any type of more or less complex shape, depending on the desired crushing strengths depending on the zones containing the cells forming a honeycomb.

The flexible and elastic material constituting the main element (1) of the intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention can be made of elastomer, such as rubber-based elastomers or polyurethane elastomers, and of Shore A hardness. higher or lower, depending on the desired crushing strength of the main element (1). This Shore A hardness may advantageously be between 30 Shore A and 70 Shore A, and preferably between 10 Shore A and 50 Shore A.

Advantageously, this material can be silicone-based, with a hardness between 10 Shore A and 60 Shore A, and preferably between 15 Shore A and 40 Shore A. The flexible silicone-based material has the advantage of increase the coefficient of adhesion between the surface (13) of the main element (1) and the shoulder of the user of the firearm, compared to rubber-based elastomeric materials, which reduces the excessive sliding movements of the stock equipped with the device according to the invention relative to the shoulder of the user of the firearm, movements caused by the effect of recoil during a shot. Another advantage of flexible and elastic materials based on silicone is their low sensitivity to variations in temperature and humidity, so that the mechanical characteristics of these materials remain substantially invariant depending on the conditions of use of the device according to the invention. .

The section of each cell (6) can also be variable, depending on its location on the internal surface (12).

According to Figures 1 to 4, the main element (1) of the intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention thus comprises a first thickness of flexible and elastic material corresponding to the solid part (11) of the , the solid part (11) being limited by the outer surface (13) and the surface corresponding to the blind bottoms of the cells (6), a second thickness corresponding to the zone of flexible material (14) of the and limited by the internal surface (12), the second thickness being extended by a skirt (5) whose thickness can be variable, in a direction extending between its connection with the second thickness and its free end terminating it.

The dimensions of the skirt (5) are configured in such a way as to guarantee good support, by elastic deformation, of the intermediate compensation system (10) when it is used alone and assembled in the manner of a sock around the end of the butt of the firearm. Advantageously, the skirt (5) can be dimensioned so as to comprise an annular zone, not shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, making it possible to provide a function of stiffening to the skirt (5), so as to reinforce its elastic retention around the butt end of the firearm.

The main element (1), in flexible and elastic material, in elastomer material or in silicone-based material, can be produced using a manufacturing mold by compression of the raw material or by injection. The constituent material of the main element (1) being flexible, elastic and deformable, demolding is possible, whatever the profile of the cells (6) and the skirt (5).

The shows an isometric view of a second embodiment of the intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention, comprising the main element (1) made of flexible and elastic material, as shown in Figures 1 to 4, and a secondary element (7) allowing the intermediate compensation system (10) to be fixed on firearm stocks comprising a mounting function of the quarter-turn type, or of the type by fixing using screws assembly, or any type of attachment known to those skilled in the art. The shows an embodiment of the intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention, the fixing of which on the butt of the firearm is of the quarter-turn type.

The shows a sectional view of the intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention, as illustrated in isometric view by the , according to an AA cut. As seen on the , the main element (1), in which are arranged a plurality of cells (6), and delimited in particular by the outer surface (13), and comprising a skirt (5), is associated with a sub-assembly comprising the secondary element (7) on which is fixed a flexible element (8) forming a layer of flexible and elastic material between the internal surface (12) of the main element (1) and the secondary element (7).

The secondary element (7) of the intermediate compensation system (10) according to one embodiment of the invention, is made of substantially rigid plastic material, such as polyamide, or polyamide filled with fiberglass, or a material thermoplastic or thermosetting, or a metallic material such as an aluminum alloy or steel. This secondary element (7) is designed to be fixed on the end of the butt of the firearm, this end of the butt being adapted to allow the secondary element (7) to be fixed thereto, either by mounting of the quarter-turn type, or by any type of fastening configuration.

Figures 5 and 6 illustrate an example of a quarter-turn type quick fastening, in the case of a firearm for military use, the stock of which is arranged to receive inefficient shock-absorbing and shock-absorbing devices. associated with the effects of the recoil of the firearm, devices which are installed by mounting of the quarter-turn type. These quick assembly devices of the quarter-turn type are well known to those skilled in the art and it is not useful to describe, within the framework of the description of the device according to the invention, the design details of the principle say a quarter turn.

The secondary element (7) comprises a plate (70) which has a fixing hole (72) suitable for quarter-turn type fixing on the butt of the firearm. This plate (70) also receives the flexible element (8) made of flexible and elastic material, such as an elastomeric material based on rubber, or a material based on silicone, the flexible element (8) being for example molded with using suitable molding tooling on the plate (70) produced separately.

Advantageously, depending on the representation of the , housings (71) are arranged in the plate (70) to receive by molding process forms (81) belonging to the flexible element (8), which effectively increases the holding of the flexible element (8) on the plate (70). Advantageously, the flexible element (8) is formed from a silicone-based material containing a bonding agent which allows the surfaces of the flexible element (8) to bond to the opposing surfaces of the plate (15) receiving it.

The flexible element (8) receives the main element (1) and the external surfaces of the flexible element (8) are intended to receive the internal surfaces of the main element (1) by means of an assembly by gluing.

Thus, when assembling the main element (1) on the sub-assembly consisting of the elements (7) and (8), the internal surface of the skirt (5) of the main element is brought into line. (1) on a part of the external surface of the flexible element (8) delimiting the surface of its contour, and the internal surface (12) of the main element (1) on a surface of the flexible element (8 ) receiving it by a bonding assembly process.

The flexible element (8) adds extra thickness for damping and absorbing the shock caused by the recoil of the firearm to the intermediate compensation system (10) according to a second embodiment, compared to a first mode of realization which consists in using only the main element (1) by installing it, thanks to its skirt (5), around the end of the butt of the firearm in the manner of a sock.

The represents an exploded isometric view of the intermediate compensation system (10) according to the second embodiment as illustrated in , allowing rapid assembly of the main element (1) containing a plurality of cells (6) thanks to the secondary element (7) allowing rapid assembly of the quarter-turn type on a firearm stock.

By way of non-limiting example, the cells (6) of the main element (1) are not all of the same section. In the example of the , and also in Figures 2 and 3, these cells have a hexagonal section, one of the six sides of which measures approximately 1.7 mm in the upper zone (2), approximately 2.2 mm in the central zone (4), and about 2.5 mm on the lower area (3). This non-limiting configuration makes it possible, for example, to obtain a variable crushing resistance between these three zones, which has an advantageous influence on the reduction of the parasitic movement of the firearm upwards during a shot, allowing the firearm user to reposition more quickly on their target for the next shot.

The is another exploded isometric view of the intermediate compensation system (10) according to the second embodiment, highlighting the outer surface (12) of the main element (1) forming the bearing surface of the main element (1) with the shoulder of the firearm user.

According to a third embodiment not illustrated, the intermediate compensation system (10) comprises the main element (1) already described, the secondary element (7) provided with the fixing orifice (72) and made of a material rigid or semi-rigid (such as a polyamide filled with glass fibers made using a plastic injection mold), its plate (70) directly receiving the main element (1) during assembly of the intermediate system compensation (10), the internal surface (12) of the main element (1) on which the plurality of cells (6) open out being installed in contact with an internal face of the plate (70) receiving the main element ( 1), the skirt (5) of the main element (1) covering the outer edge of the plate (70).

The plate (70) is not in this third embodiment associated with a flexible element (8) as previously described, and the shape of the plate (70) and in particular its outer periphery are adapted to receive the skirt (5 ) of the main element (1), the assembly of the two elements (1) and (7) can for example be achieved by gluing, or else elastically in the manner of a sock.

The intermediate compensation system (10) is particularly intended to limit the shocks caused by the recoil of firearms, in particular those provided with a butt resting against the shoulder of the shooter, by interposing between the end of the butt of the firearm and the shooter's shoulder. The intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention and in a first embodiment comprises at least one main element (1) which, used alone, will be installed on the end of the butt of the firearm in the manner of a sock thanks to its skirt (5) coming to envelop in an elastic way the outer contour of the end of the stock and by positioning the deformable main element (1) until the internal surface (12) of the main element (1) on which open a plurality of cells (6) comes into contact with the surface of the butt of the firearm.

The intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention and in a second embodiment, comprises a main element (1) fixed to a sub-assembly intended for quick mounting of the intermediate compensation system (10) on the end of a firearm stock, the sub-assembly consisting of a rigid or semi-rigid secondary element (7) and a flexible element (8) molded onto this secondary element (7). The flexible element (8) advantageously contributes to increasing the thickness of deformable material, such as elastomer or a silicone-based material, so as to be able to absorb by elastic deformation a greater quantity of energy associated with the shock caused by the recoil of the firearm.

The intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention is also intended to reduce injuries to persons using a firearm fitted with a butt.

The intermediate compensation system (10) according to the invention is intended to improve the precision performance of repetitive firing with firearms fitted with a stock, in particular with large caliber weapons or weapons whose shock and Spurious movements of the firearm caused by recoil are important and have a great influence on the accuracy and speed of the shot in reaching its target.

Claims (15)

Intermediate compensation system (10) for compensating and damping the recoil of a firearm fitted with a stock, comprising a main element (1) made of flexible, deformable and elastic material, comprising a plurality of cells (6) opening onto an internal surface (12) of the main element (1), and ending in a blind manner on a solid part (11) whose thickness is delimited by an external surface (13) provided to form a surface of support for a shoulder of a firearm user, in which the cells (6) of the main element (1) have variable dimensions and/or densities depending on the zones of the internal surface (12) on which they lead;
said intermediate compensation system (10) further comprising an elastically deformable skirt (5) extending around the periphery of the main element (1) projecting from its internal surface (12). Intermediate compensation system (10) according to claim 1, in which the skirt (5) is integral with the main element (1). Intermediate compensation system (10) according to claim 1, in which the skirt (5) is independent of the main element (1) which is inserted inside said skirt (5). Intermediate compensation system (10) according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, in which the variable dimensions of the cells (6) concern their depths and/or their sections. Intermediate compensation system (10) according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, in which the main element (1) is elongated along a longitudinal axis and has at least two successive zones, along this longitudinal axis, which are an upper zone (2) and a lower zone (3), and the dimensions of the cells (6) vary between these two zones (2, 3). Intermediate compensation system (10) according to claim 5, in which the densities and/or the sections and/or the depths of the cells (6) increase between the upper zone (2) and the lower zone (3). Intermediate compensation system (10) according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, in which the main element (1) is elongated along a longitudinal axis and has two lateral parts, on either side of this longitudinal axis, which are a right side part and a left side part, and the dimensions of the cells (6) vary between these two side parts. Intermediate compensation system (10) according to any one of Claims 1 to 7, in which the flexible, deformable and elastic material constituting the main element (1) is chosen from among a rubber-based elastomer, a polyurethane elastomer, a silicone-based material. Intermediate compensation system (10) according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, in which the flexible, deformable and elastic material constituting the main element (1) has a Shore A hardness which is between 10 and 70 Shore A , and for example between 15 and 50 Shore A. Intermediate compensation system (10) according to Claims 8 and 9, in which the flexible, deformable and elastic material constituting the main element (1) is a silicone-based material which has a Shore A hardness which is between 10 and 60 Shore A, and for example between 15 and 35 Shore A. Intermediate compensation system (10) according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, in which the intermediate compensation system (10) comprises only the main element (1) associated with the skirt (5). Intermediate compensation system (10) according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, in which the intermediate compensation system (10) further comprises a secondary rigid or semi-rigid element (7), provided with a plate (70 ) which has a connection means, such as for example a fixing hole (72), adapted for fixing on one end of the stock, in which said plate (70) is received inside the skirt (5) in being placed against the internal surface (12) of the main element (1). Intermediate compensation system (10) according to Claim 12, in which the plate (70) is placed against the internal surface (12) of the main element (1) by means of a flexible element (8) interposed between the plate (70) and the inner surface (12), said flexible element (8) being made of a flexible, deformable and elastic material. Intermediate compensation system (10) according to claim 13, in which the flexible element (8) is molded onto the plate (70). Intermediate compensation system (10) according to either of Claims 13 and 14, in which the flexible, deformable and elastic material constituting the flexible element (8) is chosen from among a rubber-based elastomer, a polyurethane elastomer, a silicone-based material and/or the flexible, deformable and elastic material constituting the flexible element (8) has a Shore A hardness which is between 10 and 60 Shore A.