US20120012590A1

US20120012590A1 - Secure firearm and equipment storage system

Info

Publication number: US20120012590A1
Application number: US12/874,729
Authority: US
Inventors: Justin D. Earp
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2009-09-02
Filing date: 2010-09-02
Publication date: 2012-01-19

Abstract

A Secure Firearm And Equipment Storage System that includes a cabinet like structure is disclosed herein. In a preferred embodiment, the system employs load bars that have a U-channel configuration. Further the load bars are aligned in rows and columns that are customizable. Also in a preferred embodiment, different lengths of steel tube are wielded together to form an outer frame. Also, the outer frame in secured with thick metal mesh wielded thereto so that the structure resembles a cage. Access to the system is provided by a door having a hidden shackle lock. The invention is particularly suitable for armed services applications and stowage of .50 caliber heavy machine guns, for example.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention pertains generally to cages for securing items such as firearms and methods thereof. More specifically, the invention pertains to methods for securing weapons and also methods for manufacturing gun storage cabinets. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is more particularly useful as a Secure Firearm and Equipment Storage System for armories in all of the armed services.
2. Description of the Prior Art
In the armories of the Untied States Armed Services, the present method of storing weapons (the M2 Browning .50 cal. machine guns for e.g.), still permits some physical access to weapons from potentially unauthorized personnel. In the prior art method, approximately ten weapons make up a row while sitting upright and adjacent to one another supported by a lower rack and resting on an upper rack. The row is then secured by a lateral bar at about a midsection of the upright weapons. The lateral bar is secured in turn by a padlock and a chain.
The present design has proved itself problematic in that common bolt cutters could be employed to gain access to all weapons in a row. Additionally, it would be still possible to remove a barrel of an individual weapon and subsequently work the barrel and breach portions past the lateral bar. Further, the current method impermissibly allows for pilfering a weapon for its parts.
Yet further, an additional problem of the current method is that two rows of gun racks are required to be chained and padlocked together to meet current military regulations. This is due to the fact that an entire row of guns could be physically moved with only the manpower of a few men; and for example, relatively easily loaded to a back of a truck bed.
Other similar inventions have been proposed, heretofore. One example was introduced by Punzel et al., entitled “Locking Door System for a Storage Cabinet,” U.S. Pat. No. 7,524,002. Another example was introduced by Ingram, entitled “Transport Cage with Enclosed Case,” U.S. Pat. No. 7,004,365. While these inventions may be suitable for their intended purposes, neither of these proposals are capable of storing heavy machine guns, in addition to other advantages of the present invention as described herein.
In light of the above, it is an object of the present invention to provide a secure apparatus and method of storing firearms that provides improved protection from unauthorized access over prior systems. It is further an object of the present invention to provide a secure design that prevents all physical access to personal that do not possess a correct key, or alternatively a means to access. It is still further an object of the present invention to provide a net smaller footprint to weapons storage and thereby increase the number of weapons capable of being stored to a given armory. Yet further, it is an object of present invention to provide a design that limits rust and corrosion of metal surfaces. Yet still further, it is an object of the present invention to provide a design that is flexible to allow for mobility so that weapons may be transported securely and effectively to the battlefield, for example. Still further, it is an object of the present invention to improve a padlock and chain design that could be compromised with standard bolt cutters. It is still further an object of the present invention to provide a storage system that reduces the number of keys required to maintain a fixed number of weapons. Finally, it is still further an object of the present invention to provide a design that houses a variety of weapons such as variations of the .50 cal machine gun to include: XM218, GAU-16, and GAU-21, as well as the GAU-17 mini gun, M240, and others.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention specifically addresses and alleviates the above mentioned deficiencies associated with the prior art. More particularly, the present invention in a first aspect, is a storage system comprising a front frame including a first plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube to form a width of the secure storage system; a first lateral frame connected at a right angle to the front frame; a first plurality of short lengths of steel tube at the right angle, each of the first plurality of short lengths of steel tube connected at an end of a corresponding widthwise length, the plurality of short lengths together with each corresponding end of forming a height of the secure storage system; a second lateral frame opposite the first lateral frame; and a rear frame opposite the front frame forming a rectilinear structure to house equipment to be securely stored.
Yet further, the invention in the first aspect is additionally characterized in that the first lateral frame further comprises metal mesh substantially covering the first lateral frame. Also, the storage system further comprises a framed door hingedly connected to the front frame, the framed door comprising metal mesh substantially covering the framed door. Additionally, the secure storage system further includes a second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube opposite the first plurality of widthwise lengths, the second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube forming a width of the rear frame; and a first plurality of load bars each across one of the first plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube and across a corresponding one of the second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube, the first plurality of load bars for supporting a plurality of weapons.
Still further, the invention in this aspect is characterized in that the plurality of load bars comprise an elongated U-channel having a basin and opposing sides; and an elongated plastic substrate configured inside of the basin, the plastic substrate preventing metal on metal contact to the plurality of weapons. Alternatively, the plurality of load bars comprise a pair of elongated opposing L-channels forming a basin; an elongated strip of plywood configured underneath the pair of elongated opposing L-channels; and an elongated plastic substrate configured inside of the basin, the plastic substrate for preventing metal on metal contact to the plurality of weapons.
Moreover, the secure storage system is additionally characterized as comprising a rectilinear frame surrounding and juxtaposed to the front frame; and a framed door hingedly connected to the front frame and the rectilinear frame wherein the framed door is configured substantially within the rectilinear frame. Still further, the invention includes a pair of inverted elongated U-channels configured to an underside of the secure storage system, the pair of inverted elongated U-channels for engaging a forklift for portability of said system. Additionally, the secure storage system is characterized wherein the first plurality of widthwise members each comprises a plurality of magnets, the plurality of magnets each comprising a means for identification (such as numbers and letters), the means for identification for identifying a particular item to be stowed.
In still a second aspect, the invention is characterized as a secure storage cabinet particularly suited for storing weapons, the secure storage cabinet comprising: a front frame including a first plurality of widthwise structural members to form a width of the secure storage cabinet; a first lateral frame connected at a right angle to the front frame; a second lateral frame opposite the first lateral frame; and a rear frame opposite the front frame forming a rectilinear structure to house weapons to be securely stored, wherein the first lateral frame further comprises metal mesh substantially covering the first lateral frame.
The invention in this aspect is further characterized as including secure storage a first plurality of short structural members at the right angle, each of the first plurality of short structural members connected at an end of a corresponding widthwise length, the plurality of short structural members together with each corresponding end of the first plurality of structural members forming a height of the secure storage cabinet. The secure storage cabinet also comprises a framed door hingedly connected to the front frame, the framed door comprising metal mesh substantially covering the framed door.
The secure storage cabinet, in this aspect, additionally comprises a second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube opposite the first plurality of widthwise lengths, the second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube forming a width of the rear frame; and a first plurality of load bars each across one of the first plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube and across a corresponding one of the second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube, the first plurality of load bars for supporting a plurality of weapons.
Still further, the invention in this aspect is characterized in that the plurality of load bars comprise an elongated U-channel having a basin and opposing sides; and an elongated plastic substrate configured inside of the basin, the plastic substrate preventing metal on metal contact to the plurality of weapons. Alternatively, the plurality of load bars comprise a pair of elongated opposing L-channels forming a basin; an elongated strip of plywood configured underneath the pair of elongated opposing L-channels; and an elongated plastic substrate configured inside of the basin, the plastic substrate for preventing metal on metal contact to the plurality of weapons.
The secure storage cabinet in this aspect is further characterized as including a rectilinear frame surrounding and juxtaposed to the front frame; and a framed door hingedly connected to the front frame and the rectilinear frame wherein the framed door is configured substantially within the rectilinear frame. Also, the invention provides a pair of inverted elongated U-channels configured to an underside of the secure storage cabinet, the pair of inverted elongated U-channels for engaging a forklift for portability of said cabinet. Yet further, the invention includes a double-hinged, accordion like design that is highly customizable according to application parameters.
These, as well as other advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the following description and drawings. It is understood that changes in the specific structure shown and described may be made within the scope of the claims, without departing from the spirit of the invention.
While the apparatus and method has or will be described for the sake of grammatical fluidity with functional explanations, it is to be expressly understood that the claims, unless expressly formulated under 35 USC 112, are not to be construed as necessarily limited in any way by the construction of “means” or “steps” limitations, but are to be accorded the full scope of the meaning and equivalents of the definition provided by the claims under the judicial doctrine of equivalents, and in the case where the claims are expressly formulated under 35 USC 112 are to be accorded full statutory equivalents under 35 USC 112. The invention can be better visualized by turning now to the following drawings wherein like elements are referenced by like numerals.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of this invention, as well as the invention itself, both as to its structure and its operation, will be best understood from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description, in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts, and in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective illustration of a first storage cabinet embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is an additional perspective illustration thereof;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a second storage cabinet embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2B is an additional perspective illustration of the second preferred embodiment;

FIG. 2C is a front view of the invention embodiment shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B;

FIG. 2D is a front view of the invention embodiment with a thick metal mesh door removed;

FIG. 2E is a profile view of the second invention embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a perspective illustration of an exemplary load bar of the present invention;

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of an additional load bar embodiment; and

FIG. 4 illustrates an accordion like design for twin storage cabinets for applications where space may be limited, such as shipboard applications.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The Secure Firearm and Equipment Storage System 100, 200, 400 utilizes an innovative combination of structural steel, expanded metal mesh 146, plastic barriers 164, 264 and high security locks 159, 259 in order to securely house 100, 200, 400 a variety of weapon 911 types. Additionally, novel wielding techniques and methods of the present invention allow its users to customize their storage facility 100, 200, 400 to maximize use of space as well as provide an option for mobility if desired.
Initially with reference to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, a perspective view of a single cell, or storage cabinet 100, is illustrated. In the example, a cell 100 is approximately five (5) feet wide by five and a half (5½) feet in height and can house thirty (30) heavy machine guns 991, for example the GAU-17, the M-2 and GAL-21 .50 cal. The single cell 100 comprises a frame that is made up of lengths of 2″×2″×¼″ steel square tube 111, 112, 112 a, 121, 122, 122 a. As shown, seven (7) widthwise lengths 111 of steel tube comprise a width of the front frame 110. In turn, smaller lengths 112, 112 a are wielded to the opposing ends of the six (6) lengths 111 of steel to form a height of the frame 110 also as shown. A depth of a cell 100 is provide by wielding more (depth wise) lengths of steel tube 141 to the upper and lower most widthwise lengths 111 of six adjacent to the other wields also forming lateral sides 140 of the cell 100. Stated differently, a first lateral frame 140 is connected at a right angle to the front frame 110; and the first plurality of short lengths 112, 112 a of steel tube are at the right angle, wherein, each of the first plurality of short lengths of steel tube 112, 112 a is connected at an end of a corresponding widthwise length 111, also wherein, the plurality of short lengths 112, 112 a together with each corresponding end forms a height of the secure storage system. Further, the lateral sides 140, top and rear 120 are then secured with thick metal mesh 146 wielded to the lateral frame 140. The lateral frame is further reinforced by diagonal bar 143.
Also referring to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, a framed 150 and reinforced 153 metal mesh door 150 is hingedly connected to a rectilinear (door) frame 130 to permit access to the gun cage 100. Importantly, the metal mesh framed door 150 is further configured with a dead bolt type lock 159 that is a major improvement over padlock-type security in prior designs. Alternatively, a hidden shackle lock 159 may be configured to the mesh door that provides additional security even over the dead bolt embodiment, as desired by a given user. It should be noted that rectilinear frame 130 surrounds framed door 150. As shown, the system 100 completely excludes all physical access to weapons 991 by the cage design. An additional benefit is that some .50 cal machine guns 991 presently require that the barrel is removed for stowage (for example, the .50 cal machine guns not configured to be mounted to helicopter gun ships and other aviation applications). The present invention 100, 200, 400 saves man-hours by obviating a need to remove the barrel of all heavy machine gun 911 types. Obviously, having to fix barrels to guns 911 before use is not acceptable if weapons are needed in an expedient manner.
A main difference between first 100 and second 200 embodiments herein includes the door frame 130 adjacent to the front frame 110 in the first embodiment. The difference being that the second embodiment 200 excludes the door frame 130. Hence, hinges in the first embodiment are affixed to the door frame 130 and face inwardly instead of toward a front of the cabinet 100, 200 (as shown in FIG. 2D). Also, the front facing hinges in the second embodiment are affixed directly to the front frame 210.
Now with regard to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, a second embodiment 200 is illustrated in perspective. The secure storage system 200 has a front frame 210 including a first plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube 211 to form a width of the secure storage system 200. The secure storage cabinet 200 also has a first lateral frame 240 connected at a right angle to the front frame 210. Also, a first plurality of short lengths 212, 212 a of steel tube are wielded at the right angle, wherein each of the first plurality of short lengths of steel tube 212, 212 a are connected at an end of a corresponding widthwise length 211. As shown, short length 212 a connected at the bottom most widthwise length 211 is shorter than the other short lengths 212. Further, the plurality of short lengths 212, 212 a together with each corresponding end of the widthwise length 211 forms a height of the secure storage system 200. A depth of the cell 200 is provided by additional lengths 241 (depth wise) of steel tube at upper and lower most widthwise lengths, as shown. It should be appreciated that steel square tube 111, 112, 112 a, 211, 212, 212 a could be substituted with any elongated structural member.
Additionally, a second lateral frame is provided opposite the first lateral frame 240; and a rear frame 220 is provided opposite the front frame 210 forming a rectilinear structure 200 to house equipment 911 to be securely stowed. As shown, thick metal mesh is wielded to framed door 250, first 240 and second lateral frames, and the rear frame 220.
Still with reference to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B the secure storage system further includes a second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube 221 opposite the first plurality of widthwise 211 lengths. Further, a first plurality of load bars 260 (160 in the FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B embodiment) pare provided each across one of the first plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube 211 and across a corresponding one 221 of the second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube, the first plurality of load bars for supporting a plurality of weapons 911.
Further with reference to FIGS. 2C and 2D, front plan views are shown with and without the metal mesh door 250. Generally, the weapons 911 are stowed within a plurality of U-channels 260 as illustrated. By way of example and not limitation, a channel measures 8 in width. An additional important aspect of the present invention is that weapon identification numbers 213 are provided below the plurality of U-channel load bars 260 that is entirely absent in prior art designs. Further the identification numbers 213 are printed to magnets; therefore if a weapon ever changes custody to another armory the printed magnet 213 may accompany the weapon 911 to its new place of storage. Additionally, inverted U-Channels 169, 269 are provided to the bottom most widthwise steel tube 111, 211. These inverted U-Channels 169, 269 provide for mobility of a cage as these channels 169, 269 can easily be engaged by a fork-lift. Mobility will be important when an entire gun cage 100, 200 is required to be transported to a battle or exercise area. FIG. 2E illustrates a first lateral frame 240 of the invention embodiment 200.
Closer views of exemplary U-Channel load bars 160, 260 are provided in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B. In a first embodiment, a U-Channel basin 161, 261 having opposing sides is wielded directly to a top of the widthwise steel tube lengths 111, 211. In a second embodiment, the U-Channel basin 161, 261 is glued to plywood type material 163, 263 at an underside; and the plywood material 163, 263 can be glued to the widthwise steel tube lengths 111, 211. As a best mode of the invention, a multipurpose polyurethane adhesive is selected such as that manufactured by the Gorilla Glue Company. In yet another embodiment (FIG. 3A), the U-Channel 260 could alternatively be two L-Channels 161, 162 opposing each other to form a “U” configuration. It should be appreciated that various aspect of the FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B embodiment 100, 160 could be mixed and matched with the FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B embodiment 200, 260.
In another preferred embodiment, a plastic slick strip (UHMW, for example) substrate 164, 264 is provided to line a basin 161, 261 of the U-Channels 160, 260. The slick strip 164, 264 provides many advantages over prior designs. First, the slick strip 164, 264 inhibits the progression of rust and corrosion on weapons due to metal on metal contact in humid environments. In the past, the metal on metal contact has been devastating to the life expectancy of many weapons 911. The slick strip 164, 264 also provides a smooth surface for easy placement and removal of weapons 911. The slick strip 164, 264 hardness will also prevent scratching of the weapons. Painting the exposed metal on completed gun cages 100, 200, 400 will also serve to prevent corrosion.
FIG. 4 further illustrates how gun cages and cells 470, 480 may be completely customizable. For example, more or less columns and rows may be added make a gun cages 100, 200, 400 taller and/or shorter. In the FIG. 4 embodiment 400, an accordion like door design wherein two doors 475, 485 are hinged to each other and to either a front frame 410 or a rectilinear (door) frame (such as in the FIG. 1A example) is provided. This particular solution 400 may be particularly suited to shipboard applications where space is at a premium.
Many beneficial aspects are provide by the present invention over prior art solutions including: a net smaller footprint per weapon 911 so more weapons can be stored in less space; key control and inventory is greatly improved by reducing the amount of keys required to maintain the armory; improved inventory and counting of the weapons 911 themselves; and the tops of the cages 100, 200, 400 provide for more storage space. It is still further contemplated that sheet metal could be substituted instead of the thick metal mesh 146 and other peripheral devices and modifications could be provided to make the gun cabinet suitable for dessert climates. These modifications include fans and air conditioning units for climate control, in additional to interior lights and solar panels providing light/power.
Many alterations and modifications may be made by those having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it must be understood that the illustrated embodiments have been set forth only for the purposes of example and that it should not be taken as limiting the invention as defined by the following claims. For example, notwithstanding the fact that the elements of a claim are set forth below in a certain combination, it must be expressly understood that the invention includes other combinations of fewer, more or different elements, which are disclosed in above even when not initially claimed in such combinations.
While the particular Secure Firearm and Equipment Storage System as herein shown and disclosed in detail is fully capable of obtaining the objects and providing the advantages herein before stated, it is to be understood that it is merely illustrative of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention and that no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown other than as described in the appended claims.
Insubstantial changes from the claimed subject matter as viewed by a person with ordinary skill in the art, now known or later devised, are expressly contemplated as being equivalently within the scope of the claims. Therefore, obvious substitutions now or later known to one with ordinary skill in the art are defined to be within the scope of the defined elements.

Claims

1. A secure storage system comprising:

a front frame including a first plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube to form a width of the secure storage system;

a first lateral frame connected at a right angle to the front frame;

a first plurality of short lengths of steel tube at the right angle, each of the first plurality of short lengths of steel tube connected at an end of a corresponding widthwise length, the plurality of short lengths together with each corresponding end of forming a height of the secure storage system;

a second lateral frame opposite the first lateral frame; and

a rear frame opposite the front frame forming a rectilinear structure to house equipment to be securely stored.

2. The secure storage system of claim 1, the first lateral frame further comprising metal mesh substantially covering the first lateral frame.

3. The secure storage system of claim 1, further comprising a framed door hingedly connected to the front frame, the framed door comprising metal mesh substantially covering the framed door.

4. The secure storage system of claim 1, further comprising:

a second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube opposite the first plurality of widthwise lengths, the second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube forming a width of the rear frame; and

a first plurality of load bars each across one of the first plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube and across a corresponding one of the second plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube, the first plurality of load bars for supporting a plurality of weapons.

5. The secure storage system of claim 4, the plurality of load bars comprising:

an elongated U-channel having a basin and opposing sides; and

an elongated plastic substrate configured inside of the basin, the plastic substrate preventing metal on metal contact to the plurality of weapons.

6. The secure storage system of claim 4, the plurality of load bars comprising:

a pair of elongated opposing L-channels forming a basin;

an elongated strip of plywood configured underneath the pair of elongated opposing L-channels; and

an elongated plastic substrate configured inside of the basin, the plastic substrate for preventing metal on metal contact to the plurality of weapons.

7. The secure storage system of claim 1, further comprising:

a rectilinear frame surrounding and juxtaposed to the front frame; and

a framed door hingedly connected to the front frame and the rectilinear frame wherein the framed door is configured substantially within the rectilinear frame.

8. The secure storage system of claim 1, further comprising a pair of inverted elongated U-channels configured to an underside of the secure storage system, the pair of inverted elongated U-channels for engaging a forklift for portability of said system.

9. The secure storage system of claim 1, the first plurality of widthwise members each comprising a plurality of magnets, the plurality of magnets each comprising a means for identification, the means for identification for identifying a particular item to be stowed.

10. A secure storage cabinet particularly suited for storing weapons, the secure storage cabinet comprising:

a front frame including a first plurality of widthwise structural members to form a width of the secure storage cabinet;

a first lateral frame connected at a right angle to the front frame;

a second lateral frame opposite the first lateral frame; and

a rear frame opposite the front frame forming a rectilinear structure to house weapons to be securely stored, wherein the first lateral frame further comprises metal mesh substantially covering the first lateral frame.

11. The secure storage cabinet of claim 10, further comprising a first plurality of short structural members at the right angle, each of the first plurality of short structural members connected at an end of a corresponding widthwise length, the plurality of short structural members together with each corresponding end of the first plurality of structural members forming a height of the secure storage cabinet.

12. The secure storage cabinet of claim 10, further comprising a framed door hingedly connected to the front frame, the framed door comprising metal mesh substantially covering the framed door.

13. The secure storage cabinet of claim 10, further comprising:

14. The secure storage cabinet of claim 13, the plurality of load bars comprising:

an elongated U-channel having a basin and opposing sides; and

15. The secure storage cabinet of claim 13, the plurality of load bars comprising:

a pair of elongated opposing L-channels forming a basin;

16. The secure storage cabinet of claim 1, further comprising:

a rectilinear frame surrounding and juxtaposed to the front frame; and

17. The secure storage cabinet of claim 1, further comprising a pair of inverted elongated U-channels configured to an underside of the secure storage cabinet, the pair of inverted elongated U-channels for engaging a forklift for portability of said cabinet.

18. A secure storage cabinet comprising:

a front frame including a first plurality of widthwise lengths of steel tube to form a width of the secure storage cabinet;

a first lateral frame connected at a right angle to the front frame;

a second lateral frame opposite the first lateral frame; and

a rear frame opposite the front frame forming a rectilinear structure to house equipment to be securely stored;

19. The secure storage cabinet of claim 1, further comprising:

metal mesh substantially covering each of the first lateral frame, second lateral frame and the rear frame; and

a framed door hingedly connected to the front frame, the framed door comprising metal mesh substantially covering the framed door.

20. The secure storage cabinet of claim 4, the plurality of load bars comprising:

an elongated U-channel having a basin and opposing sides; and