US20020174587A1 - Firearm locking system and method for preventing access to a trigger - Google Patents
Firearm locking system and method for preventing access to a trigger Download PDFInfo
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- US20020174587A1 US20020174587A1 US10/145,155 US14515502A US2002174587A1 US 20020174587 A1 US20020174587 A1 US 20020174587A1 US 14515502 A US14515502 A US 14515502A US 2002174587 A1 US2002174587 A1 US 2002174587A1
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- Prior art keywords
- locking
- trigger guard
- electric actuator
- housing
- firearm
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- Abandoned
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 16
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 210000004087 cornea Anatomy 0.000 claims description 2
- 210000001747 pupil Anatomy 0.000 claims description 2
- 210000003813 thumb Anatomy 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000009849 deactivation Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910000679 solder Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 208000027418 Wounds and injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 1
- 208000014674 injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000000087 stabilizing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41A—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS COMMON TO BOTH SMALLARMS AND ORDNANCE, e.g. CANNONS; MOUNTINGS FOR SMALLARMS OR ORDNANCE
- F41A17/00—Safety arrangements, e.g. safeties
- F41A17/06—Electric or electromechanical safeties
- F41A17/063—Electric or electromechanical safeties comprising a transponder
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41A—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS COMMON TO BOTH SMALLARMS AND ORDNANCE, e.g. CANNONS; MOUNTINGS FOR SMALLARMS OR ORDNANCE
- F41A17/00—Safety arrangements, e.g. safeties
- F41A17/46—Trigger safeties, i.e. means for preventing trigger movement
- F41A17/54—Protecting-caps for trigger guards; Trigger locking pieces mounted on, or within, the trigger guard
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a firearm locking system and method, and more particularly, to a firearm locking system for preventing access to a trigger.
- a number of conventional solutions have been developed that permit the firearm to be loaded and ready for use, while preventing injury to children and use of the firearm by unauthorized users.
- key locks have been developed which restrict operation of the gun triggers. These types of locks require a key for operation.
- Key locks are often complex and cumbersome, presenting a significant obstacle to accessing the firearm quickly when necessary, such as to protect or defend against an intruder. Moreover, tampering with such locks may lead to accidental discharge of the firearm.
- Firearm storage devices such as gun cabinets, effectively secure firearms but do so at the expense of accessibility. These devices may also be quite expensive, requiring the consumer to choose between cost and safety.
- More recent systems employ a magnetically actuable safety apparatus, which interacts with a magnet ring worn by the user, resulting in the enabling or disabling of the lock.
- a magnetically actuable safety apparatus which interacts with a magnet ring worn by the user, resulting in the enabling or disabling of the lock.
- such devices are extremely sensitive to ring positioning, leading to unreliable operation.
- the user must be in possession of the magnetic ring in order to disable the lock.
- the present invention is directed to a firearm locking system and method for preventing access to a trigger that solves the problems in conventional firearm locking systems as described above.
- the invention provides a system and method allowing a user to remotely disable and enable a firearm locking mechanism.
- a user of the locking system and method in accordance with the invention need not be in physical possession of the firearm in order to disable and enable the locking mechanism. This allows a user to quickly disable and use the firearm when needed.
- one aspect of the invention is to provide a locking system and method for a firearm that can be remotely disabled and enabled.
- Another aspect of the invention is to provide a firearm locking system and method that includes a transmitter device for sending a locking enabling and disabling signal to a self contained locking system mounted on a firearm.
- the invention provides a trigger guard locking unit adaptable to a firearm trigger guard, the trigger guard locking unit including a housing for preventing access to a first side of the trigger guard; a receiver for generating a control signal upon receipt of a request signal, the receiver positioned in the housing; an electric actuator activated by the control signal received from the receiver, the electric actuator positioned in the housing; a locking cover for preventing access to a second side of the trigger guard; and a locking device extendible from the housing to the locking cover for preventing access to the trigger guard and discharge of the firearm, the locking device extending upon activation of the electric actuator.
- the invention provides a method for locking a firearm by preventing access to a trigger guard, which includes positioning a housing to prevent access to a first side of the trigger guard; positioning a locking cover to prevent access to a second side of the trigger guard; generating a control signal upon receipt of a request signal; activating an electric actuator upon receipt of a control signal; and extending a locking device from the housing to the locking cover, the locking device extending upon activation of the electric actuator.
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a firearm locking system according to an embodiment of the invention
- FIGS. 2 a and 2 b are general views of a firearm locking mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a side view of a trigger guard locking unit according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4 is a side view of a housing for a trigger guard locking unit according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a position shift from unlocked to locked position of a firearm locking system according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a firearm locking system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the firearm locking system may be used on all hand and shoulder-held firearms, including shotguns, semi-automatic weapons (spring or gas operated), receivers with hand operated bolts, and fully automatic weapons.
- FIG. 1 shows an electronic transmitter 100 in communication with a trigger guard locking unit 102 .
- the trigger guard locking unit 102 includes a power source 110 coupled to an electric actuator 112 and a receiver unit 104 .
- the electric actuator 112 and receiver unit 104 are also coupled to each other.
- the receiver unit 104 includes a receiver 106 and antenna 108 . Each of these elements will be discussed in turn.
- the electronic transmitter 100 may be permanent or portable.
- An example of a portable electronic transmitter includes a remote controller.
- the electronic transmitter 100 is capable of receiving input from a user.
- the electronic transmitter 100 may include a depressible button for sending a signal.
- the electronic transmitter 100 may include various security features, such as a thumb print identification system or an iris/cornea pupil identifier system, which only allow authorized users to operate the electronic transmitter 100 .
- the electronic transmitter 100 may include used to lock and unlock the firearm.
- the electronic transmitter 100 may be any one of standard off the shelf components capable of transmitting radio frequency transmissions.
- the electronic transmitter 100 sends a signal to the trigger guard locking unit 102 in order to operate the unit 102 .
- the trigger guard locking unit 102 may include a housing and locking cover located on either side of the trigger guard.
- the housing contains the receiver unit 104 , the power source 110 , and the electric actuator 112 .
- a user initiates a request signal, which is transmitted from the electronic transmitter 100 to the receiver unit 104 .
- the antenna 108 of the receiver unit 104 receives the request signal sent from the electronic transmitter 100 .
- the antenna 108 may be any one of standard off the shelf components capable of receiving radio frequency transmissions.
- the receiver 106 which receives the request signal, may be a signal generator.
- the receiver 106 may be a small receiver such as a micro-receiver.
- the receiver 106 includes an internal security component.
- An example of the internal security component includes the ability of the receiver 106 to self-destruct (e.g., by burning its circuits) upon disassembly. After receiving the request signal, the receiver 106 generates a control signal that is sent to the electric actuator 112 .
- the electric actuator 112 may include a relay, which completes the circuit when the control signal is received. Once the circuit is completed, current is delivered to the electric actuator 112 .
- the power source 110 may be any AC or DC power supply, such as dry cell batteries providing DC current.
- the power source 110 provides power to both the receiver unit 106 and the electric actuator 112 .
- the electric actuator 112 may be one of a variety of actuators, such as a solenoid or, alternatively, a motor.
- the electric actuator 112 may be configured to include a locking device.
- Type of locking mechanisms in accordance with the invention include plunger type and pin devices, which are described in greater detail below.
- the electric actuator 112 may be a solenoid held in position by at least one permanent magnet.
- the solenoid may be capable of moving the locking device (e.g. plunger or pin) into a locked or unlocked position upon activation.
- activation of the electric actuator 112 may extend the locking device from a housing of the trigger guard locking unit 102 into a locking cover of the trigger guard locking unit 102 , thereby preventing access to the trigger guard from either direction.
- the trigger cannot be accessed and the firearm is safe.
- the firearm locking system in accordance with the present invention is in a locked position, and the locking device is therefore extended into the locking cover of the trigger guard locking unit 102 , activation of the electric actuator 112 retracts the locking device out of the locking cover and back into the housing of the trigger guard locking unit 102 , separating the locking cover from the housing, thereby permitting access to the trigger. This unlocks the firearm and allows it to be operated.
- Operation of the trigger guard locking unit 102 may also be initiated by systems, such as a key system or button system, which may be located on the outside of the housing.
- a key system or button system which may be located on the outside of the housing.
- the turning of a key may activate the electric actuator 112 .
- the pressing of buttons e.g., in a particular sequence, may activate the electric actuator 112 .
- FIG. 2 a is a general view of the trigger guard locking unit 102 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the trigger guard locking unit 102 includes the electric actuator 112 .
- the electric actuator 112 includes a plunger 202 that is capable of extending from the housing into the locking cover of trigger guard locking unit, thus preventing access to the trigger and operation of the firearm.
- the electric actuator has source connector openings disposed along its outer wall surface.
- a power source 204 abuts one end of the electric actuator 112 .
- a power storage rack 206 may be connected to the electric actuator 112 by mating power source connector pins 208 , preferably four pins, into power source connector openings 210 disposed on the outer wall surface of the electric actuator 112 .
- the power storage rack 206 may be connected to the electric actuator 112 by solder joints. The attachment of the power storage rack 206 to the electric actuator 112 forms a seal over the power source 204 .
- the antenna 108 is also mounted on the power storage rack 206 .
- the plunger locking device 202 is contained within the electric actuator 112 .
- FIG. 2 b shows a general view of the trigger guard locking unit 102 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 b shows the electric actuator 112 having a plunger 202 .
- FIG. 2 b also shows receiver connector openings 212 disposed on the outer wall surface of the electric actuator 112 .
- a receiver 214 having receiver connecting pins 216 is coupled to the electric actuator 112 by mating the receiver connecting pins 216 into the receiver connector openings 212 .
- the receiver 214 may be connected to the electric actuator 112 by solder joints.
- FIG. 2 b also shows an antenna 108 mounted on the end of, and connected to, the electric actuator 112 .
- a request signal is transmitted from the electronic transmitter 100 to the antenna 108 .
- the receiver 214 receives the transmitted signal and generates a control signal that completes a circuit engaging the electric actuator 112 .
- the electric actuator 112 then engages the plunger 202 , moving the plunger.
- FIG. 3 shows a side view of the trigger guard locking unit 102 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3 shows the housing 302 of the trigger guard locking unit 102 .
- the housing 302 has a front, rear, top, and bottom and encloses the trigger guard locking unit 102 .
- the housing 302 contains the electric actuator 112 , which has the receiver 104 , power source 110 , and antenna 108 mounted upon its surface.
- the housing 302 may be made of metal or composite in any shape or form, preferably a rectangle.
- the housing 302 may be made of a torch-resistant metal or composite.
- the housing 302 includes an outer trigger guard dowell 310 for stabilizing the trigger of the firearm when the trigger guard locking unit 102 is engaged.
- the electric actuator 112 , receiver 104 , power source 110 and antenna 108 are positioned in a space 304 of the housing 302 .
- the electric actuator 112 includes an electric actuator plunger opening 306 , and a plunger 202 capable of linear movement through the opening 306 .
- FIG. 3 shows a space 308 for an inner trigger guard locking dowell located on the locking cover, which is discussed below with regard to FIG. 4.
- the plunger 202 moves in a direction away from the front of the housing 302 , through the electric actuator plunger opening 306 , to the space 308 for an inner trigger guard locking dowell. Thus, the plunger 202 has moved linearly in a direction away from the body of the electric actuator 112 . This operation is discussed further with regard to FIG. 4.
- FIG. 4 shows a side view of the trigger guard locking unit 102 .
- FIG. 4 illustrates the locking cover 402 .
- the locking cover 402 has a front, bottom, and side so as to completely cover the housing 302 .
- the locking cover 402 may be made of the same metal or composite as the housing 302 .
- the locking cover 402 includes an inner trigger guard locking dowell 404 and a locking cavity 406 .
- the plunger 202 moves in a direction from the front to the rear of the housing 302 , extending through the space 308 for the inner trigger guard locking dowell and into the locking cavity 406 of the inner trigger guard locking dowell 404 .
- the inner trigger guard locking dowell 404 may be located to the rear of the plunger opening 306 . In the extended position, the plunger 202 locks the locking cover 402 to the housing 302 , thereby preventing access to the trigger of the firearm.
- FIG. 5 shows the firearm locking system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention where the plunger 202 is in an unlocked position allowing operation of the firearm.
- the plunger 202 is retracted and positioned in the housing 302 .
- the plunger 202 is removed from the space 308 for the inner trigger guard locking dowell, and the locking cover 402 (i.e., the locking cavity 406 of the inner trigger guard locking dowell 404 ).
- the plunger 202 allows the housing 302 and the locking cover 402 to separate in a very quick and smooth fashion, providing immediate access to the trigger of the firearm.
Abstract
The invention describes a firearm locking system and method for preventing access to a trigger. In particular, the firearm locking system and method of the present invention provides a trigger guard locking unit for a firearm, the trigger guard locking unit including a housing, a receiver, an electric actuator, a locking cover, and a locking device extendible from the housing to the locking cover, the locking device extending upon activation of the electric actuator.
Description
- This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/293,200, filed May 25, 2001, entitled “ELECTRONIC OR MANUAL OPERATED FIREARMS SAFETY LOCKING SYSTEM,” the entirety of which is herein incorporated by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to a firearm locking system and method, and more particularly, to a firearm locking system for preventing access to a trigger.
- 2. Discussion of the Related Art
- Throughout history, firearms have been used for protection and recreation. Many private citizens, fearing crime, have chosen to arm themselves in order to provide a feeling of security. Placing firearms in the home presents a number of potential problems, including the possibility of a child gaining access to the firearm or the possibility of an intruder gaining access to the firearm and using it against the homeowner. One option is to keep the firearm unloaded. However, an unloaded firearm will be ineffective against a surprise intruder.
- A number of conventional solutions have been developed that permit the firearm to be loaded and ready for use, while preventing injury to children and use of the firearm by unauthorized users. For example, key locks have been developed which restrict operation of the gun triggers. These types of locks require a key for operation. Key locks, however, are often complex and cumbersome, presenting a significant obstacle to accessing the firearm quickly when necessary, such as to protect or defend against an intruder. Moreover, tampering with such locks may lead to accidental discharge of the firearm.
- Firearm storage devices, such as gun cabinets, effectively secure firearms but do so at the expense of accessibility. These devices may also be quite expensive, requiring the consumer to choose between cost and safety.
- More recent systems employ a magnetically actuable safety apparatus, which interacts with a magnet ring worn by the user, resulting in the enabling or disabling of the lock. Typically, such devices are extremely sensitive to ring positioning, leading to unreliable operation. In addition, the user must be in possession of the magnetic ring in order to disable the lock.
- Thus, in view of the inadequacies of conventional firearm locking devices, there is a substantial need for an economical firearm locking system that can secure a firearm without sacrificing its availability for immediate use.
- Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a firearm locking system and method for preventing access to a trigger that solves the problems in conventional firearm locking systems as described above.
- The invention provides a system and method allowing a user to remotely disable and enable a firearm locking mechanism. Thus, a user of the locking system and method in accordance with the invention need not be in physical possession of the firearm in order to disable and enable the locking mechanism. This allows a user to quickly disable and use the firearm when needed.
- Therefore, one aspect of the invention is to provide a locking system and method for a firearm that can be remotely disabled and enabled.
- Another aspect of the invention is to provide a firearm locking system and method that includes a transmitter device for sending a locking enabling and disabling signal to a self contained locking system mounted on a firearm.
- In accordance with these and other aspects, the invention provides a trigger guard locking unit adaptable to a firearm trigger guard, the trigger guard locking unit including a housing for preventing access to a first side of the trigger guard; a receiver for generating a control signal upon receipt of a request signal, the receiver positioned in the housing; an electric actuator activated by the control signal received from the receiver, the electric actuator positioned in the housing; a locking cover for preventing access to a second side of the trigger guard; and a locking device extendible from the housing to the locking cover for preventing access to the trigger guard and discharge of the firearm, the locking device extending upon activation of the electric actuator.
- In a further embodiment, the invention provides a method for locking a firearm by preventing access to a trigger guard, which includes positioning a housing to prevent access to a first side of the trigger guard; positioning a locking cover to prevent access to a second side of the trigger guard; generating a control signal upon receipt of a request signal; activating an electric actuator upon receipt of a control signal; and extending a locking device from the housing to the locking cover, the locking device extending upon activation of the electric actuator.
- It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed.
- The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a firearm locking system according to an embodiment of the invention;
- FIGS. 2a and 2 b are general views of a firearm locking mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 3 is a side view of a trigger guard locking unit according to an embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 4 is a side view of a housing for a trigger guard locking unit according to an embodiment of the invention; and
- FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a position shift from unlocked to locked position of a firearm locking system according to an embodiment of the invention.
- Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
- FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a firearm locking system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The firearm locking system may be used on all hand and shoulder-held firearms, including shotguns, semi-automatic weapons (spring or gas operated), receivers with hand operated bolts, and fully automatic weapons.
- FIG. 1 shows an
electronic transmitter 100 in communication with a triggerguard locking unit 102. The triggerguard locking unit 102 includes apower source 110 coupled to anelectric actuator 112 and areceiver unit 104. Theelectric actuator 112 andreceiver unit 104 are also coupled to each other. Thereceiver unit 104 includes areceiver 106 andantenna 108. Each of these elements will be discussed in turn. - Turning to the
electronic transmitter 100, theelectronic transmitter 100 may be permanent or portable. An example of a portable electronic transmitter includes a remote controller. Theelectronic transmitter 100 is capable of receiving input from a user. For example, theelectronic transmitter 100 may include a depressible button for sending a signal. In addition, theelectronic transmitter 100 may include various security features, such as a thumb print identification system or an iris/cornea pupil identifier system, which only allow authorized users to operate theelectronic transmitter 100. Theelectronic transmitter 100 may include used to lock and unlock the firearm. Theelectronic transmitter 100 may be any one of standard off the shelf components capable of transmitting radio frequency transmissions. Theelectronic transmitter 100 sends a signal to the triggerguard locking unit 102 in order to operate theunit 102. - The trigger
guard locking unit 102 may include a housing and locking cover located on either side of the trigger guard. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the housing contains thereceiver unit 104, thepower source 110, and theelectric actuator 112. In operation, a user initiates a request signal, which is transmitted from theelectronic transmitter 100 to thereceiver unit 104. Specifically, theantenna 108 of thereceiver unit 104 receives the request signal sent from theelectronic transmitter 100. Theantenna 108 may be any one of standard off the shelf components capable of receiving radio frequency transmissions. Thereceiver 106, which receives the request signal, may be a signal generator. Thereceiver 106 may be a small receiver such as a micro-receiver. In an embodiment of the invention, thereceiver 106 includes an internal security component. An example of the internal security component includes the ability of thereceiver 106 to self-destruct (e.g., by burning its circuits) upon disassembly. After receiving the request signal, thereceiver 106 generates a control signal that is sent to theelectric actuator 112. - The
electric actuator 112 may include a relay, which completes the circuit when the control signal is received. Once the circuit is completed, current is delivered to theelectric actuator 112. - The
power source 110 may be any AC or DC power supply, such as dry cell batteries providing DC current. Thepower source 110 provides power to both thereceiver unit 106 and theelectric actuator 112. - The
electric actuator 112 may be one of a variety of actuators, such as a solenoid or, alternatively, a motor. Theelectric actuator 112 may be configured to include a locking device. Type of locking mechanisms in accordance with the invention include plunger type and pin devices, which are described in greater detail below. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, theelectric actuator 112 may be a solenoid held in position by at least one permanent magnet. The solenoid may be capable of moving the locking device (e.g. plunger or pin) into a locked or unlocked position upon activation. For example, if the firearm locking system in accordance with the invention is in an unlocked position, activation of theelectric actuator 112 may extend the locking device from a housing of the triggerguard locking unit 102 into a locking cover of the triggerguard locking unit 102, thereby preventing access to the trigger guard from either direction. Thus, the trigger cannot be accessed and the firearm is safe. Alternatively, if the firearm locking system in accordance with the present invention is in a locked position, and the locking device is therefore extended into the locking cover of the triggerguard locking unit 102, activation of theelectric actuator 112 retracts the locking device out of the locking cover and back into the housing of the triggerguard locking unit 102, separating the locking cover from the housing, thereby permitting access to the trigger. This unlocks the firearm and allows it to be operated. - Operation of the trigger
guard locking unit 102 may also be initiated by systems, such as a key system or button system, which may be located on the outside of the housing. In the key system embodiment, the turning of a key may activate theelectric actuator 112. In the button system embodiment, the pressing of buttons, e.g., in a particular sequence, may activate theelectric actuator 112. - FIG. 2a is a general view of the trigger
guard locking unit 102 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The triggerguard locking unit 102 includes theelectric actuator 112. Theelectric actuator 112 includes aplunger 202 that is capable of extending from the housing into the locking cover of trigger guard locking unit, thus preventing access to the trigger and operation of the firearm. - In FIG. 2a, the electric actuator has source connector openings disposed along its outer wall surface. A
power source 204 abuts one end of theelectric actuator 112. In accordance with the present invention, apower storage rack 206 may be connected to theelectric actuator 112 by mating power source connector pins 208, preferably four pins, into powersource connector openings 210 disposed on the outer wall surface of theelectric actuator 112. In an alternate embodiment, thepower storage rack 206 may be connected to theelectric actuator 112 by solder joints. The attachment of thepower storage rack 206 to theelectric actuator 112 forms a seal over thepower source 204. Theantenna 108 is also mounted on thepower storage rack 206. Theplunger locking device 202 is contained within theelectric actuator 112. - FIG. 2b shows a general view of the trigger
guard locking unit 102 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Like FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b shows theelectric actuator 112 having aplunger 202. FIG. 2b also showsreceiver connector openings 212 disposed on the outer wall surface of theelectric actuator 112. Areceiver 214 havingreceiver connecting pins 216 is coupled to theelectric actuator 112 by mating thereceiver connecting pins 216 into thereceiver connector openings 212. In an alternate embodiment, thereceiver 214 may be connected to theelectric actuator 112 by solder joints. FIG. 2b also shows anantenna 108 mounted on the end of, and connected to, theelectric actuator 112. - Thus, in operation, a request signal is transmitted from the
electronic transmitter 100 to theantenna 108. Thereceiver 214 receives the transmitted signal and generates a control signal that completes a circuit engaging theelectric actuator 112. Theelectric actuator 112 then engages theplunger 202, moving the plunger. - FIG. 3 shows a side view of the trigger
guard locking unit 102 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3 shows thehousing 302 of the triggerguard locking unit 102. In an embodiment of the invention, thehousing 302 has a front, rear, top, and bottom and encloses the triggerguard locking unit 102. In FIG. 3, thehousing 302 contains theelectric actuator 112, which has thereceiver 104,power source 110, andantenna 108 mounted upon its surface. Thehousing 302 may be made of metal or composite in any shape or form, preferably a rectangle. Thehousing 302 may be made of a torch-resistant metal or composite. In an embodiment, thehousing 302 includes an outertrigger guard dowell 310 for stabilizing the trigger of the firearm when the triggerguard locking unit 102 is engaged. In an embodiment, theelectric actuator 112,receiver 104,power source 110 andantenna 108 are positioned in aspace 304 of thehousing 302. Theelectric actuator 112 includes an electricactuator plunger opening 306, and aplunger 202 capable of linear movement through theopening 306. FIG. 3 shows aspace 308 for an inner trigger guard locking dowell located on the locking cover, which is discussed below with regard to FIG. 4. - When the trigger
guard locking unit 102 is engaged, theplunger 202 moves in a direction away from the front of thehousing 302, through the electricactuator plunger opening 306, to thespace 308 for an inner trigger guard locking dowell. Thus, theplunger 202 has moved linearly in a direction away from the body of theelectric actuator 112. This operation is discussed further with regard to FIG. 4. - FIG. 4 shows a side view of the trigger
guard locking unit 102. Specifically, FIG. 4 illustrates the lockingcover 402. In an embodiment of the present invention, the lockingcover 402 has a front, bottom, and side so as to completely cover thehousing 302. The lockingcover 402 may be made of the same metal or composite as thehousing 302. The lockingcover 402 includes an inner triggerguard locking dowell 404 and alocking cavity 406. Continuing from FIG. 3, upon activation of theelectric actuator 112, theplunger 202 moves in a direction from the front to the rear of thehousing 302, extending through thespace 308 for the inner trigger guard locking dowell and into the lockingcavity 406 of the inner triggerguard locking dowell 404. The inner triggerguard locking dowell 404 may be located to the rear of theplunger opening 306. In the extended position, theplunger 202 locks the lockingcover 402 to thehousing 302, thereby preventing access to the trigger of the firearm. - FIG. 5 shows the firearm locking system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention where the
plunger 202 is in an unlocked position allowing operation of the firearm. In FIG. 5, theplunger 202 is retracted and positioned in thehousing 302. In this position, theplunger 202 is removed from thespace 308 for the inner trigger guard locking dowell, and the locking cover 402 (i.e., the lockingcavity 406 of the inner trigger guard locking dowell 404). Thus, theplunger 202 allows thehousing 302 and the lockingcover 402 to separate in a very quick and smooth fashion, providing immediate access to the trigger of the firearm. - It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the firearm locking system of the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.
- Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided that they come within the scope of any claims and their equivalents.
Claims (18)
1. A trigger guard locking unit adaptable to a firearm trigger guard, comprising:
a housing for preventing access to a first side of the trigger guard;
a receiver for generating a control signal upon receipt of a request signal, the receiver positioned in the housing;
an electric actuator activated by the control signal received from the receiver, the electric actuator positioned in the housing;
a locking cover for preventing access to a second side of the trigger guard; and
a locking device extendible from the housing to the locking cover for preventing access to the trigger guard and discharge of the firearm, the locking device extending upon activation of the electric actuator.
2. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 1 , further including a power source.
3. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 1 , wherein the receiver includes an antenna.
4. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 1 , wherein the receiver includes an internal security component.
5. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 1 , wherein the receiver receives the request signal from an electronic transmitter.
6. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 1 , wherein the electric actuator includes a solenoid.
7. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 1 , wherein the locking device includes a plunger.
8. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 1 , wherein the locking device extends into a trigger guard locking dowell.
9. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 8 , wherein the locking device retracts from the locking cover to the housing upon deactivation of the electric actuator.
10. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 4 , wherein the electronic transmitter includes a depressible button.
11. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 4 , wherein the electronic transmitter includes a thumb print identification system.
12. The trigger guard locking unit according to claim 4 , wherein the electronic transmitter includes an iris/cornea pupil identification system.
13. A method for locking a firearm by preventing access to a trigger guard, comprising:
positioning a housing to prevent access to a first side of the trigger guard;
positioning a locking cover to prevent access to a second side of the trigger guard;
generating a control signal upon receipt of a request signal;
activating an electric actuator upon receipt of the control signal; and
extending a locking device from the housing to the locking cover, the locking device extending upon activation of the electric actuator.
14. The method according to claim 13 , wherein the control signal may be generated by a receiver.
15. The method according to claim 13 , wherein the request signal may be generated by an electronic transmitter.
16. The method according to claim 13 , wherein the electric actuator includes a solenoid.
17. The method according to claim 13 , wherein the locking device extends into a trigger guard locking dowell.
18. The method according to claim 13 , wherein the locking device retracts from the locking cover to the housing upon deactivation of the electric actuator.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/145,155 US20020174587A1 (en) | 2001-05-25 | 2002-05-15 | Firearm locking system and method for preventing access to a trigger |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US29320001P | 2001-05-25 | 2001-05-25 | |
US10/145,155 US20020174587A1 (en) | 2001-05-25 | 2002-05-15 | Firearm locking system and method for preventing access to a trigger |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20020174587A1 true US20020174587A1 (en) | 2002-11-28 |
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/145,155 Abandoned US20020174587A1 (en) | 2001-05-25 | 2002-05-15 | Firearm locking system and method for preventing access to a trigger |
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US (1) | US20020174587A1 (en) |
Cited By (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050257676A1 (en) * | 2003-10-23 | 2005-11-24 | Ealovega George D | Weapon with electro-mechanical firing mechanism for use with combination percussive and electrically responsive cartridge primer |
US20110030544A1 (en) * | 2009-08-05 | 2011-02-10 | Hodge Darron D | Remotely controlled firearm mount |
US8713836B1 (en) * | 2012-11-17 | 2014-05-06 | Ataul Haq | Automatic trigger guard for firearms |
US20140215882A1 (en) * | 2013-02-06 | 2014-08-07 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Secure smartphone-operated gun trigger lock |
US8893420B2 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2014-11-25 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Secure smartphone-operated gun trigger lock |
US9377259B2 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2016-06-28 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Remote control weapon lock |
US9488427B1 (en) | 2015-01-12 | 2016-11-08 | Don Scott Lucero | Fast access trigger lock |
US9644911B1 (en) * | 2016-02-29 | 2017-05-09 | Dm Innovations, Llc | Firearm disabling system and method |
US9739555B2 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2017-08-22 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Remote control weapon lock |
US9879932B2 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2018-01-30 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Remote control weapon lock |
US10330436B2 (en) | 2016-09-02 | 2019-06-25 | Hornady Manufacturing Company | Handgun storage safe |
US11078687B2 (en) | 2017-05-18 | 2021-08-03 | Homady Manufacturing Company | Lockable firearm safe |
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US6533149B2 (en) * | 2000-01-03 | 2003-03-18 | Al Vor Keller | Safety holster for preventing access to a firearm by unauthorized users |
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US5283971A (en) * | 1992-03-09 | 1994-02-08 | Fuller Robert M | Trigger guard alarm for a firearm |
US5937557A (en) * | 1995-01-31 | 1999-08-17 | Arete Associates | Fingerprint-acquisition apparatus for access control; personal weapon and other systems controlled thereby |
US5621996A (en) * | 1995-06-07 | 1997-04-22 | Pride Cast Metals, Inc. | Combination security and display device for firearms |
US6523374B1 (en) * | 1996-07-19 | 2003-02-25 | William Owens | Safety device for firearms |
US6510642B2 (en) * | 1996-07-26 | 2003-01-28 | Karl Stefan Riener | Device for securing a firearm, as well as for securing and/or storing objects |
US6343140B1 (en) * | 1998-09-11 | 2002-01-29 | Quid Technologies Llc | Method and apparatus for shooting using biometric recognition |
US6260300B1 (en) * | 1999-04-21 | 2001-07-17 | Smith & Wesson Corp. | Biometrically activated lock and enablement system |
US6533149B2 (en) * | 2000-01-03 | 2003-03-18 | Al Vor Keller | Safety holster for preventing access to a firearm by unauthorized users |
US20020095845A1 (en) * | 2000-09-07 | 2002-07-25 | Franco Sapia | Electronic trigger lock apparatus and system |
US6499243B1 (en) * | 2002-03-01 | 2002-12-31 | Spid 2002 Corp. | Firearm safety system |
Cited By (17)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050257676A1 (en) * | 2003-10-23 | 2005-11-24 | Ealovega George D | Weapon with electro-mechanical firing mechanism for use with combination percussive and electrically responsive cartridge primer |
US20110030544A1 (en) * | 2009-08-05 | 2011-02-10 | Hodge Darron D | Remotely controlled firearm mount |
US8234968B2 (en) * | 2009-08-05 | 2012-08-07 | Hodge Darron D | Remotely controlled firearm mount |
US8397621B2 (en) | 2009-08-05 | 2013-03-19 | Darron HODGE | Remotely controlled firearm mount |
US8713836B1 (en) * | 2012-11-17 | 2014-05-06 | Ataul Haq | Automatic trigger guard for firearms |
US9222740B1 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2015-12-29 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Secure smartphone-operated locking device |
US8893420B2 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2014-11-25 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Secure smartphone-operated gun trigger lock |
US8919024B2 (en) * | 2013-02-06 | 2014-12-30 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Secure smartphone-operated gun trigger lock |
US20140215882A1 (en) * | 2013-02-06 | 2014-08-07 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Secure smartphone-operated gun trigger lock |
US9377259B2 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2016-06-28 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Remote control weapon lock |
US9726448B1 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2017-08-08 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Secure smartphone-operated locking device |
US9739555B2 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2017-08-22 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Remote control weapon lock |
US9879932B2 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2018-01-30 | Karl F. Milde, Jr. | Remote control weapon lock |
US9488427B1 (en) | 2015-01-12 | 2016-11-08 | Don Scott Lucero | Fast access trigger lock |
US9644911B1 (en) * | 2016-02-29 | 2017-05-09 | Dm Innovations, Llc | Firearm disabling system and method |
US10330436B2 (en) | 2016-09-02 | 2019-06-25 | Hornady Manufacturing Company | Handgun storage safe |
US11078687B2 (en) | 2017-05-18 | 2021-08-03 | Homady Manufacturing Company | Lockable firearm safe |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |