USOO8485170B1

(12) United States Patent

Prior

(10) Patent N0. :

(45) Date 0f Patent :

US 8,485,170 B1
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1

PROJECTILE LAUNCHER WITH INTERNAL

BOW

these actions can often result in cumbersome and strenuous

manipulations of the bow and associated equipment in a

hunting scenario due to limited space.
The use ofthe cross-mounted bow and string also introduce

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

potential shooting inaccuracy. Unless the bow is exactly

evenly cocked such that the bowstring center point is being
held by the trigger mechanism, side forces will be imparted

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to archery weapons, and par

ticularly to a projectile launcher provided with covered, inter

naliZed bow elements and corresponding cocking mechanism
for increased balance, safe handling, and minimized effort in

on the bolt during acceleration down the rail, which will

adversely affect its flight accuracy. Cocking the bow even 1/16"

off center will drastically change the bolts point of impact.

Accurate aiming with crossbows is also adversely affected
by their typical design. The conventional crossbow has an
imbalanced weight distribution, which places the center of

operation.
2. Description of the Related Art
Crossbows have long been known in the art. The traditional
design dates back to the 14th century or earlier, when very

mass far forward of the weapon due to the bow limbs and

high powered crossbows were effective, especially against

armored horsemen. A large medieval crossbow of circa 1500
AD might have a draw weight of 1200 lbs. and a range of 450

yards. In modern times, crossbows rarely exceed 200 lbs.

draw weight. Modern crossbows now use sighting mecha

nisms of various sorts, advanced composite materials and

metal alloys, wheel/pulley systems, etc., but otherwise are
little changed, except in style and construction materials.
Draw weights are dramatically lower, which are tailored to
target shooting or hunting applications, rather than warfare.
Crossbows normally use rifle style stocks. Indeed, the
modern rifle design originated with the medieval crossbow.
Sights may be aperture sights as found on a rifle, pin sights as
on a compound longbow, or telescopic sights. A modern 200
lb. draw weight heavyweight crossbow will achieve similar
projectile speeds to a 60 lb. peak draw weight compound hand
bow, and the bolt and arrow weights are also similar (300-400

20

table, and the bow limbs are mounted in reverse orientation

25

30

grains).
The crossbow, being relatively short compared to recurve
bows and the like, requires comparatively more force to bend.
Most crossbows must be cocked by using the feet and legs or

ing requires a degree of stealth, anything compromising this

35

aspect, such as the noise from a loosed bowstring, is highly

undesirable. One solution includes dampener accessories
mounted to the bowstring or bow assembly. While they may
assist in lessening the vibrations, they are another of many
various accessories that the user must consider. Depending on

of a conventional crossbow.

the siZe and complexity of such dampeners, they can nega

40

external. The bow limbs extend out to the sides of the cross

bow and sweep forward when red. The bolt travels openly
exposed down the rail at high speeds when red. Conse
quently, the user must exercise caution when cocking and
uncocking, handling a cocked bow (whether loaded or
unloaded), and firing to avoid inadvertent bodily contact with

from traditional, i.e., the arch ofthe bow faces the user instead
of away from the user. This type of crossbow may provide
better balance, but it still experiences the same type of con
cerns mentioned above, i.e., safety and the need to accommo
date the cross-extending bow limbs during use.
Another concern of traditional crossbow designs arises
from the results of a completed shot. The sudden dissipation
of energy at the end of a shot through various components of
the crossbow can cause excessive vibration in the bowstring

resulting in noise akin to a plucked guitar string. Since hunt

a mechanical aid for very powerful bows. Because ofthe large

amount of force applied and mechanical energy stored and
released, significant safety concerns exist due to the structure

The bowstring sweeps along the top of the bow, and it is

associated mounting placed at the distal end of the rail or

table. Thus, the user must compensate and support the
weighty forward end with more strength and care during
aiming compared to typical rearms, such as rifles or the
conventional recurve bow. One attempt to address this issue
places the mounting hardware near the rear of the elongate

tively impact mobility and space required for hunting as well

as projectile performance.
In light of the above, it would be a benet in the art of
archery weapons to provide a crossbow-type weapon that
provides better balance, enhanced safety in handling, ease of

45

cocking and uncocking the weapon, quiet operation and

stealth. Thus, a projectile launcher with internal bow solving
the aforementioned problems is desired.

high energy and sharpened bow components. For example,

the user must always take into account the sweep ofthe limbs

when firing to prevent limb contact with external objects,

which can cause significant back force into the stock and

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

50

ultimately to the user s body (often facial area). The user must

avoid putting lingers/hands between the cocked bow and the

bowstring.
The traditional crossbow, with its exposed mechanism and
bowstring cocking mechanism, is not a compact design which

55

reciprocation of a cocking pawl carriage riding inside a rail

system in the barrel assembly. A biased cocking pawl in the

presents some ease of use concerns when applied to hunting

applications, compared to a reann/ gun and even the typical

longbows and the like. The large cross-sectional area created
by the bow limbs being mounted transverse to the stock can

result in frequent snagging with tree limbs and foliage when

being transported in the eld. Mitigating the safety concerns
described above often results in limited shooting angles when

The projectile launcher includes a riser base, an elongate

barrel assembly attached to the riser base, a crank mechanism
attached to the back of the barrel assembly, a trigger assem
bly, and an internal bow assembly mounted to the riser base.
The crank assembly includes a rotatable crank for selective

pawl carriage selectively engages a projectile stirrup carriage

riding on top ofthe rail system to push the stirrup carriage into
60

a cocked position. The internal bow assembly includes verti

cally spaced upper and lower resilient bow arms and respec
tive pulleys and cables interconnecting the bow arms and the

stirrup carriage. Cocking ofthe stirrup carriage flexes the bow

hunting in close proximity to trees due to the need for accom

modating a safe Zone around the bow limbs. The use of
attached to the bow each time it is cocked or uncocked and

arms in preparation for placement and firing of a projectile.

The working components of the projectile launcher are
enclosed by a covering to protect the user. An integral quiver

that rely upon the physical strength of the user to perform

can also be provided.

external (to the bow) cocking mechanisms that must be

65

US 8,485,170 Bl
4

3
These and other features of the present invention will

posites, and combinations thereof can also be used. The short

become readily apparent upon further review ofthe following

section 14 is preferably solid, since this portion experiences

specification and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

the most stress, while the long section 16 includes an elongate

slot 17 for passage of a trigger mechanism 140, to be
described below. To reduce weight, portions of the short
section 14 can be removed without adversely affecting the

FIG. 1 is an environmental, perspective view of a projectile

launcher according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the projectile launcher of

nent. A stock 18 is detachably mounted to the distal end ofthe

structural integrity, performance and function of this compo

long section 16.

An elongate barrel assembly 20 is disposed along the top
length ofthe long section 16. The barrel assembly 20 includes

FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the projectile launcher of

FIG. 2 as shown from the front and with part of the side
housing removed to show details thereof.

a pair of elongate side panels 22, 24 attached to sides of a rail

FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the projectile

launcher of FIG. 2, shown with the side housing and part of
the rail system removed.
FIG. 5 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the front
end ofthe projectile launcher of FIG. 2, shown with part ofthe
side housing and rail system removed, showing details of the

elongate, rectangular plates having a height extending above

system 30 disposed between the side panels 22, 24. The rail
system 30 facilitates cocking and loosing of a projectile B,
such as a crossbow bolt. The side panels 22, 24 are preferably

the top surface of the rail system 30, thereby serving as side
guards. Additionally, each side panel 22, 24 includes respec
tive upwardly extending curved projections 26, 28 at the
distal end. Each projection 26, 28 curves inwardly towards
the central rail system 30, partially covering that end of the
barrel assembly 20. These curved projections 26, 28 also

pawl of the cocking mechanism.

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view ofthe projectile launcher
of FIG. 2, shown with part of the front housing removed.
FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view ofthe projectile launcher
of FIG. 2, shown with the side housing, riser base, and a

portion of the trigger mechanism removed to highlight the

serve as protective guards, providing limited cover over the

25

sharp tip ofthe projectile B when cocked. Moreover, they can

crank mechanism.

also serve as a crude, integral sight, similar to the aperture

FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view of the projectile

launcher of FIG. 2, showing details of the internal bow limbs
and the cocking mechanism.

sights on typical firearms.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a cam pulley wheel assem

bly for the projectile launcher of FIG. 2.

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of a stirrup carriage
for the projectile launcher of FIG. 2.
FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of the projectile
launcher of FIG. 2, showing the crank for the cocking mecha

As best seen in FIGS. 2-6, the rail system 30 includes an

elongate, upper rail section 32 and an elongate lower rail

30

tion while the projectile launcher 10 is braced at its distal end

against another obj ect or the ground. The upper rail section 32
35

pawl carriage 41 for cocking the projectile launcher 10. Each

rail section 32, 34 is preferably constructed from elongate

tion having an integral quiver assembly.

square or rectangular tubes, one or both rail sections 32, 34

40

a channel having a C-shaped cross section. An elongate slot

and serves as a flight groove for the projectile B. The slot 33
widens at the distal end ofthe upper rail section 32 in order to

Similar reference characters denote corresponding fea

tures consistently throughout the attached drawings.

45

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED

EMBODIMENTS

50

type weapon in a relatively compact form. The term proj ec

55

with eitherblunt or sharpened tips. As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the

port for the projectile B and permits operation ofthe cocking

mechanism 40.
As best seen in FIGS. 3 and 5, the interior edge of the slot
33 is preferably smooth and rounded to prevent any increased

frictional engagement of the shaft when the projectile B is

60

loosed. A non-smooth edge can potentially snag on the pro

jectile B, reducing much of the energy imparted for flight. In

short section 14 is notched, forming a mounting ledge 15 for

mounting one of the bow limbs, the details of which will be
further described below. The riser base 12 is preferably con

angular cutout, this section can be of any shape capable of

permitting the tip ofthe projectile B to rest therein. The slot 33
also facilitates operation of a component of the cocking
mechanism 40, which will be further described below.
The slot 33 preferably extends the whole length of the
upper rail section 32. Alternatively, the extension of the slot
33 can stop short near the proximal end of the rail section 32.
Any slot length can serve, so long as it provides proper sup

tile launcher as used herein refers to a device capable of

projectile launcher 10 includes a riser base 12 where the rest

of the components of the projectile launcher 10 are mounted
or attached. The riser base 12 is a substantially L-shaped
block having a vertical short section 14 and an integral long
section 16 extending transversely from an end of the short
section 14. A portion ofthe long section 1 6 that meets with the

accommodate the head or tip ofthe projectile B. Although the

widened section of the slot 33 is shown as a square or rect

well-balanced and enhanced, safe-handling/ring archery

launching various types of elongate projectiles B, such as
crossbow bolts, arrows, stakes, etc., that may be provided

being complete or partial tubes, partial being construed as

33 is formed along the top length of the upper rail section 32

invention having an integral quiver assembly.

The projectile launcher, a rst embodiment of which is

generally referred to by the reference number 10, provides a

slidably supports a stirrup carriage 120 for the projectile B,

while the lower rail section 34 slidably supports a cocking

nism.
FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of an alternative embodi
ment of a projectile launcher according to the present inven

FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of another alternative

embodiment of a projectile launcher according to the present

section 34. The front or distal end ofthe rail system 30 can be

provided with resilient bumpers 38 to protectively support the

front of the projectile launcher 10 during the cocking opera

65

the same vein, the surfaces ofthe slot 33 and/ or the top surface
ofthe upper rail section 32 can also be provided with a coating
or a layer of friction-reducing material, such as Teflon (Te
flon is a registered trademark of E.I. Du Pont de Nemours and

structed from relatively lightweight, yet strong, durable mate

Company of Wilmington, Del.) and the like, in order to maxi

rial, such as aluminum, but other similar metals, wood, com

miZe the kinetic energy of the projectile B.

US 8,485,170 Bl
5

The top panel or portion of the lower rail section 34 also

includes an elongate slot 35 collinear and parallel with the slot

pulley wheel 48 integrally connected to a second or lower

gear 49. Each gear 46, 49 meshes with the worm gear 72 on
the transmission gear assembly 70, and rotation of the worm
gear 72 causes the upper and lower gears 46, 49 to concur

33. The hollow interior of the lower rail section 34 accom

modates slidable movement of a cocking pawl carriage 41,

and the cocking pawl 43 in the pawl carriage 41 extends
through both the slot 35 and the slot 33 to selectively engage

rently rotate in opposite directions. ln other words, when the

upper gear 46 rotates clockwise via rotation ofthe worm gear
72, the worm gear 72 causes the lower gear 49 to simulta

the stirrup carriage 120 during the cocking operation.

The cocking mechanism 40 for the projectile launcher 10

neously rotate counterclockwise, and vice versa.

One end of a cocking cable 54 is anchored to each upper
pulley wheel 45 and lower pulley wheel 48. Both ends extend

includes a crank mechanism 60 mounted to the proximal end

of the rail system 30 and the reciprocating cocking pawl

through corresponding holes at the back ofthe rail system 30

to wind around respective upper and lower pulley wheels 45,

carriage 41. A crank housing 62 encloses the working com

ponents of the crank mechanism 60. As best seen in FIG. 7,
the crank mechanism 60 includes a crank 64 rotatably
mounted to the crank housing 62.An elongate crank arm 65 is
pivotally attached to one side of the crank 64 at one end, and
a handle 66 protrudes transversely from the other end. The
crank arm 65 is preferably constructed as an elongate plate,

48 as best seen in FIG. 7. Rotation of the upper and lower

pulley wheels 45, 48 simultaneously winds and unwinds the

cocking cable 54. The cocking pawl carriage 41 is attached to
the cocking cable 54 at an intermediate section thereof and
forced to move in response to the winding and rewinding
rotations of the upper and lower pulley wheels 45, 48 on the

and the handle 66 is preferably shaped as an elongate, cylin

drical post either rotatably mounted or non-rotatably fixed to
the distal end ofthe crank arm 65. By this hinged construction

cocking cable 54. Since the cocking pawl carriage 41 is slid

ably mounted inside the channel of the lower rail section 34,

ofthe crank arm 65, both the handle 66 and the crank arm 65
can be pivoted between use and non-use positions, where the

the cocking pawl carriage 41 is confined to reciprocate

former position extends the crank arm 65 radially outward,

To facilitate the reciprocating movement of the cocking

pawl carriage 41, the cocking cable 54 is trained around a
distal, first idle pulley wheel or roller 52 rotatably mounted to

therein.

providing leverage for manual rotation, and the latter position

stows the handle 66 into a corresponding hole on the side

panel 22 when not in use. lt is noted that either side panel 22,
24 or similar covering can be provided, with a hole, depend
ing on user preference, i.e., right- or left-hand operation. The
pivoting crank arm 65 arrangement adds to the compact,
streamlined form factor for the projectile launcher 10.
The opposite side of the crank 64 includes a coaxial bevel
gear 67. This bevel gear 67 interacts with an elongate trans
mission gear assembly 70. The transmission gear assembly is

25

a first mounting block 50 at the distal end of the lower rail

section 34 and a proximal, second idle pulley wheel or roller
58 rotatably mounted to a second mounting block 56 at the
proximal end ofthe lower rail section, as best shown in FIGS.
30

preferably constructed as a substantially elongate post having

a combination of gears formed thereon. One end ofthe trans

35

mission gear assembly 70 is rotatably mounted to the back of

the rail system 30 and includes an intermediate worm gear 72

along a majority ofthe length ofthe post, and a bevel gear 74

at the opposite end. The bevel gear 74 ofthe transmission gear
assembly 70 meshes with the bevel gear 67 of the crank 64.
Thus, rotation of the crank 64 facilitates simultaneous rota
tion of the transmission gear assembly 70.
The connection ofthe transmission gear assembly 70 to the
back ofthe rail system 3 0 can be provided by a simple rotating
connection or by other like means, e.g., a non-circular boss

4-7. For simplicity of description, the trained arrangement of

the cocking cable 54 is described as beginning from the upper
pulley wheel 45. From the upper pulley wheel 45, a section of
the cocking cable 54 extends into the channel ofthe lower rail
section 34 and is attached to one end of the cocking pawl

40

45

that can be inserted into a correspondingly shaped mounting

recess or hole where the attached end ofthe transmission gear

carriage 41. The remaining section of the cocking cable 54

extends from the other end of the cocking pawl carriage 41
and trains around the first idle pulley wheel 52 and the second
idle pulley wheel 58 to connect with the lower pulley wheel
48. ln order to insure proper movement of the cocking cable
54 during use, the bottom panel or wall of the lower rail
section 34 can include an elongate guide groove 36 for guid

ing and defining the path of the cocking cable 54 to and from
the lower pulley wheel 48. The guide groove 36 also assists in
preventing fraying or damage to the cocking cable 54.
The cocking pawl carriage 41 includes an elongate, rect
angularblock having a recess 42 and a biased cocking pawl 43
pivotally mounted within the recess 42. The cocking pawl 43

assembly 70 can rotate with respect the boss. This exemplary

can be constructed as an elongate, wedge-shaped bar nor

construction more securely mounts the transmission gear

assembly 70 to the rail system 30. Other alternative construc
tions can also be utiliZed, such as a biased locking connection

mally biased to the upstanding position, as best seen in FIG.

5. The cocking pawl 43 includes an abutment extension 43a
constructed to interact with the slot 35 in the lower rail section

50

that permits removable mounting of the transmission gear

34. The surfaces of the cocking pawl carriage 41 and/or the

assembly 70 while remaining free to rotate in response to the

rotation of the crank 64. Additionally, a pair or more of the

be provided with a coating or layer of friction reducing mate

transmission gear assemblies 70 can be provided for ease of

interior surfaces ofthe channel in the lower rail section 34 can

55

operation and/or increased mechanical advantage.

sliding movement.
ln use, the projectile launcher 10 is placed so that the
bumpers 38 at the front of the projectile launcher 10 rest on
the ground or any suitable bracing surface or obj ect. The

The cocking mechanism 40 also includes a first or upper

pulley assembly 44 rotatably mounted inside the crank hous

ing 62 above the transmission gear assembly 70, and a second
or lower pulley assembly 47 rotatably mounted inside the
crank housing 62 below the transmission gear assembly 70.
Each pulley assembly is constructed as a combined, integral
component having a pulley wheel coaxial with a gear. The
pulley wheel can also be referred to as a pulley roller. Thus,
the upper pulley assembly 44 includes a first or upper pulley
wheel 45 integrally connected to a first or upper gear 46, while
the lower pulley assembly 47 includes a second or lower

rial, such as Teflon, in order to insure smoothness and ease of

60

cocking pawl 43 normally extends upright so that operation of

the crank mechanism 60 in one direction slides the cocking

pawl carriage 41 until the cocking pawl 43 engages the front

of the projectile stirrup carriage 120. Continuous cranking
causes the cocking pawl 43 to push the stirrup carriage 41
65

towards the rear or proximal end of the barrel assembly 20

until the stirrup carriage 120 is in the fully cocked position. At

this point, the projectile stirrup carriage 120 is locked in place

US 8,485,170 Bl
8

The fiexing assembly 100 includes a pair of outer, upper

by, e. g., releasable catches or fingers 146 ofthe trigger assem

pulley wheels or rollers 102 rotatably mounted near the distal

end ofthe upper narrow section 85 and a cam pulley assembly
110 rotatably mounted to the lower narrow section 89. The
cam pulley assembly 110 (best seen in FIG. 9) includes a
rotatable shaft 112, a pair of inner pulley wheels or rollers 114
and a pair of outer pulley wheels 11 6. The inner pulley wheels

bly 140. Prior to releasing the catches 146, the crank mecha
nism 60 is rotated in the opposite direction, causing the cock
ing pawl carriage 41 to slide back towards the front or distal
end of the barrel assembly 20. Towards the end of the back
wards travel, the abutment extension 43a abuts against the
end ofthe slot 35, forcing the cocking pawl 43 to pivot clown

114 are rigidly attached to the shaft 112 at an offset or eccen

into the recess 42, as indicated by the arrow 2 in FIG. 5. This

tric axis. When assembled, the inner pulley wheels 114 reside

allows the cocking pawl 43 to clear the slot 33 in the upper rail

on the sides ofthe lower narrow section 89. Each inner pulley

section 32, permitting unobstructed placement and pas sage of

wheel 114 has a given, preselected diameter. Each outer pul

ley wheel 116 is coaxially mounted to respective ends of the
shaft 112 adjacent to respective inner pulley wheels 114. The
diameter of the outer pulley wheels 116 is preferably larger
than the inner pulley wheels 114. Due to the eccentric axial
mounting ofthe inner pulley wheels 114, rotation ofthe outer

the projectile B to be loosed. At least this end of the slot 35 is

preferably closed to facilitate the abutted pivoting motion of
the cocking pawl 43. However, this end ofthe slot 35 can also
be constructed in a variety of shapes, such as the end having

sloping sides, a stepped end portion, and the like that provide
some sort of obstruction for interacting with the abutment
extension 43a.

pulley wheels 116 causes a corresponding cam rotation ofthe

The kinetic energy for propelling the projectiles B is pro

vided by a bow assembly 80 attached to the riser base 12. The
term bow assembly is used because it includes bow ele

crossbow mechanism that has analogous but loosely synchro

nized pairs of inner and outer pulley wheels, the rigid attach

inner pulley wheels 114. Unlike a traditional compound

20

ment ofthe inner and outer pulley wheels 114, 116 to the shaft
112 ensures that rotational synchronization of the fiexing

ments that tension connected cables and transfer the energy

stored therein to accelerate the projectile B in a manner simi
lar to various archery weapons. Unlike conventional cross

bows, the bow assembly 80 is configured in a reversed and

vertical orientation as opposed to front-facing and horizontal.
Moreover, the projectile launcher 10 is provided with a cov
ering 11 that encloses the bow assembly 80 and associated
components, which protects the bow assembly 80 from the
elements and provides a safety feature for the user. Any noise

assembly 100 is maintained at all times, which improves

shooting accuracy by ensuring consistent tensioning of the

25

Each pair of inner and outer pulley wheels 114, 116 can be
constructed as separate components. However, they are pref
erably integrally fixed to each other by some means, such as
fasteners or adhesive, in order to preserve the desired cam
30

that may be generated by the operation of the bow assembly

80 will also be muffled by the covering 11. This configuration
of the bow assembly 80 provides the projectile launcher 10
35

beam having one end secured to the mounting ledge 15 by an

upper mounting plate 83 and bolts 84. The upper bow arm 82
includes a relatively wide section that tapers to a relatively

lower, inner pulley wheels 114, where the opposite end ofthe
40

45

short, narrow section 85.

Similarly, the lower bow arm 86 is constructed as an elon
gate, fiat beam having one end secured to the bottom of the

stirrup carriage 120. The interaction between the flex cables

50

tapers to a relatively short, narrow section 89. Although both

and the pulley wheels flexes the bow arms 82, 86 to be further
described below.

The projectile stirrup carriage 120 is best shown in FIG. 10.

As shown, the projectile stirrup carriage 120 is constructed as

the upper and lower bow arms 82, 86 include wide and narrow

sections, the bow arms 82, 86 are not identically shaped due
to the bow fiexing assembly 100 attached to the narrow sec
tions 85, 89. However, the different width sections are gen

respective first flex cable 106 anchors thereon. A second flex

cable 108 has each end anchored to respective outer pulley
wheels 116 ofthe cam pulley assembly 110. The second flex
cable 108 extends from one outer pulley wheel 116 and trains
around the projectile stirrup carriage 120 to the other outer
pulley wheel 116. Alternatively, the second flex cable 108 can
be provided as two equal length cables with each being
anchored to a respective outer pulley wheel 116 at one end
and the other end anchored to a corresponding side of the

short section 14 by a lower mounting plate 87 and bolts 88.

The lower bow arm 86 includes a relatively wide section that

first flex cables 106. Each first flex cable 106 is anchored at
one end to an anchor stub 104 disposed on the sides of the
lower narrow section 89 at the end thereof. The remainder
trains over the upper pulley wheels 102 and down towards the

bow assembly 80 includes a flexible, resilient upper bow arm,

limb or lath 82 attached to the mounting ledge 15 on the
vertical short section 14, and a flexible, resilient lower bow
arm, limb or lath 86 attached to the bottom ofthe short section
14.
The upper bow arm 82 is constructed as an elongate, fiat

ming effect. A more preferred construction includes a molded

or machined pair of inner and outer pulley wheels 114, 116.
The wheels preferably include a plurality of cutouts to mini

mize weight and rotational inertia.

The fiexing assembly 100 is also provided with a pair of

with a compact, streamlined form, which eliminates the

potential hindrances of horizontally extending bow arms in

conventional crossbows. As shown in FIGS. 4, 7 and 8, the

attached cables for firing the projectile B.

a relatively thin, hemi-circular block with a relatively fiat

55

front 122 and a curved or arcuate outer edge. The front 122

erally preferred for each bow arm 82, 86, where the wide

includes a fiat portion for accommodating the cocking pawl

section provides the durability and strength for flexure and the

43 during the cocking operation. Additionally, the flat portion

narrow section eases fiexing of the bow arms 82, 86. Alter
native constructions, such as a beam with continuous tapering
sides and the like, can also be used for similar purpose. ln

serves as an abutment for the back ofthe projectile B when the

60

general, the sizes and shapes ofthe upper and lower bow aims
82, 86 can be selected in concert with the fiexing assembly
100 configuration and mass distribution to create the required
energy storage and minimized center of mass shifts during
firing, as described more below. Thus and alternatively, iden
tical upper and lower bow arms 82, 86 can be employed with

corresponding accommodation of the fiexing assembly 100.

projectile launcher 10 is ready to be fired. A completely fiat

front may be serviceable, but to insure safe operation, the
stirrup carriage 120 can include a pair of outwardly projecting

front guide protrusions 123, with the fiat portion disposed

therebetween. The guide protrusions 123 assist in insuring
65

proper placement of the rear end of the projectile B and

prevent lateral movement thereof. Any lateral play that may
exist with respect to the operation ofthe cocking pawl 43 will

also be prevented by the guide protrusions 123. Additionally,

US 8,485,170 Bl
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10

the guide protrusions 123 provide increased longitudinal sup

port to prevent the projectile stirrup carriage 120 from tum

flex cables 106 around the inner pulley wheels 114, forcing
the upper and lower narrow sections 85, 89 of the upper and
lower bow arms 82, 86 to flex toward each other. At this point,

bling during high accelerated travel along the upper rail sec
tion 32. The projectile stirrup carriage also includes a pair of
cutouts 125 for receiving the catches 146 ofthe trigger assem
bly 140 as well as to minimize weight.

the projectile stirrup carriage 120 is cocked and ready to be

released. Upon release of the catches 146 by the user pulling
the trigger 144, the built-up tension in the second flex cable

A guide groove 124 is formed along the curved outer edge,

upon which the second flex cable 108 trains around the stirrup
carriage 120 and is connected thereby. ln order to secure the

108 is released causing the projectile stirrup carriage 120 to

rapidly accelerate along the upper rail section 32 towards the
front thereof. This action launches the projectile B carried by

trained connection, the stirrup carriage 120 includes a pair of

guide roller stubs 126 and two pairs of angularly spaced,
radially projecting support tabs or extensions 128, each pair
of support tabs 128 supporting a guide roller 129 therebe

the projectile stirrup carriage 120.

Unlike modem conventional crossbows, the projectile

can be rotatable or non-rotatable. Any number of pairs of

launcher 10 can be dry-fired without risk of damage to the

bow assembly 80 due to the mass of the projectile stirrup
carriage 120. lf a user dry-fires such a conventional crossbow,
the kinetic energy transfers back into the bowstring and the
various components of the crossbow, rather than to the bolt.
With some crossbows having a draw weight in the hundreds
of pounds, that is a considerable amount of energy to be
absorbed. This leads to potential damage, such as breaks in
the bow limbs and/or bowstring, failure or breakage in the
cams and pulleys, etc., which can potentially result in flying

support tabs 128 can be provided for the stirrup carriage 120.
ln use, the second flex cable 108 trains around the guide roller

projectile stirrup carriage 120 acts as a focus for dissipating

tween. The guide roller stubs 126 can be constructed as non

rotating cylindrical stubs disposed at the bottom ofthe stirrup

carriage 120 on opposite ends of the substantially fiat front
122. Alternatively, the guide roller stubs 126 can be rotatable.
Each pair of support tabs 128 includes an upper and lower
support tab, the guide roller 129 being mounted between the
tabs. As with the guide roller stubs 126, the guide roller 129

stubs 126 into the guide groove 124, where the guide roller
129 traps the second flex cable 108 and prevents any uninten
tional dislodging of the flex cable 108.

20

parts that can harm the user. ln contrast, the mass of the

the released energy as it travels towards the front of the rail

25

system 30 past the normal position at the midpoint ofthe rail

system 30 and decelerates at the end of the firing cycle. ln

Since the projectile stirrup carriage 120 is configured to

other words, the momentum of the projectile stirrup carriage

slide along the top of the upper rail section 32 at varying

120 towards the end of travel, i.e., the distal end of the rail
system 3 0, pulls against or counteracts the natural rebounding
fiexure ofthe bow arms 82, 86, thereby dissipating the poten

speeds, the projectile stirrup carriage 120 is also provided

with a wear plate 130 at the bottom of the carriage 120.

30

Preferably, the wear plate 130 is constructed from friction

tial energy after firing. While benefiting dry-firing conditions,

reducing material to increase longevity and operational effec

this effect occurs to a lesser degree in normal firing condi

tions. The stirrup carriage 120 will still overrun its normal

tiveness for transferring kinetic energy to the projectile B. A

pair of guide rails 132 extends from opposite, lateral ends of
the wear plate 130. These guide rails 132 straddle the lateral
sides ofthe upper rail section 32 and ensure that the projectile
stirrup carriage 120 travels along the upper rail section 32.
The top ofthe upper rail section 32 can also be provided with
a coating or layer of friction reducing material.
ln order to redirect the vertical force created by the bow
assembly 80 working with the flex assembly 100 and trans

midpoint position when firing a projectile B, and any residual

35

energy will be dissipated by the overrun. This overrun of the

bolt stirrup carriage 120 at the completion of firing also has

the effect of eliminating vibration in the second flex cable
108, which can generate unwanted noise. Thus, an extremely
quiet operation can be facilitated. The string/cable vibration
40

at the end of firing in a traditional crossbow is more than an

annoyance, and reduces the desired stealth of operation that is

mitted via the second flex cable 108 into a horizontal force

highly priZed in hunting applications. lt is noted that this

applied to the projectile stirrup carriage 120, the projectile

anti-vibration effect occurs in both firing and dry-firing con

ditions.
The pulley system in the bow assembly 80 functions in a

launcher 10 also includes a plurality of side idler guide rollers

133, 136 rotatably mounted between the rail system 30 and
rail system support frame 137 that projects from and is
attached to the short vertical section 14. The second flex cable
108 is confined between the guide rollers 133, 136, which
ensure that only a portion ofthe second flex cable 108 defiects
between the longitudinal ends of the rail system 30.
The trigger assembly 140 includes a detachably mounted
block having a grip 142, a trigger 144, and a pair of catches or
fingers 146 disposed near the top of the block. The trigger

45

similar manner to conventional compound bows. The cam

50

ous different cam profiles to facilitate the desired draw char

assembly extends through the slot 17 of the rail system 30,

and the releasable catches 146 engage the cutouts 125 when

55

the stirrup carriage 120 is in the cocked position. Pulling the

trigger 144 releases the catches 146. The top of the trigger
assembly 140 or the crank housing 62 can be provided with a

acteristics.
ln addition, the bow arms 82, 86 have been mentioned as
being not necessarily identical, as well as that the components
of the flexing assembly 100 mounted onto the bow arms 82,
86 may be of generally different masses. Therefore, the
aggregate center of mass of the combined bow assembly 80

and flexing assembly 100 may translate in the vertical plane

mounting system (not shown) for mounting scopes and other

similar sights to assist aim.

pulley assembly 110 allows the bow arms 82, 86 to be drawn

and the draw to be maintained without continuous effort, as in
non-compound bows. Depending on the desires or require
ments of the user, the cam pulley assembly 110 and/or the
upper, outer pulley wheels 102 can be constructed with vari

60

during cocking and firing operation. ln other words, the dif

ln operation, the cocking pawl 43 pushes the stirrup car

riage 120 back towards the trigger assembly 140 against the

ferent configuration of the upper and lower bow arms 82, 86

resistance of the second flex cable 108. The movement of the

stirrup carriage 120 causes the second flex cable 108 to pull

cause the releasing momentum to be directed at an angle from

the aim line. ln order to compensate, the combined bow

away from the outer pulley wheels 116, thereby rotating the
same. Rotation ofthe outer pulley wheels 116 simultaneously
rotates the inner pulley wheels 114. This action winds the first

and flexing assembly 100 mounting configuration could

65

assembly 80 and flexing assembly 100 are constructed to be

dynamically balanced such that their aggregate center of mass

is invariant in the vertical plane during cocking and firing

US 8,485,170 Bl
11

12

operation. For example, the upper bow arm 82 can be pro

vided with a weighted end 81 and/or larger cross section to the
upper narrow section 85. ln addition, the materials for con
structing the bow arms 82, 86 can be selected and assembled
to provide the desired flex and balance. Moreover, the masses

tioned previously, the projectile launcher 10, 1000, 2000 is

capable of firing various types of elongate projectiles. Other
types of proj ectiles such as pellets, balls, discs and the like can
also be used with appropriate modifications to the stirrup
carriage and/or the rail system to accommodate the shape.
lt is to be understood that the present invention is not

of the upper pulley wheels 102, and inner and outer pulley
wheels 114, 116 can be tuned by adjustment of thickness, siZe

limited to the embodiments described above, but encom

passes any and all embodiments within the scope of the fol

of cut-outs, etc. to create the desired mass distribution in

combination with the aforementioned adjustments.

Ffhus, it can be seen that the projectile launcher 10 provides

lowing claims.
10

a riser base having a vertical section and a horiZontal sec

the working components of the projectile launcher 10 are

tion extending perpendicularly from an end of the ver

tical section, the vertical section having a top and a

enclosed or confined within a guarded or protected structure,

the user can operate and fire the projectile launcher 1 0 without

bottom;

much of the safety and operational concerns of conventional

crossbows. Moreover, the reversed and vertically oriented
internal bow assembly 80 and associated structural support
and the placement thereof results in a balanced weapon,

enhancing portability, operation, and aim.

a barrel assembly attached to the riser base, the barrel

assembly having an elongate rail system adapted for

placement of a projectile, the rail system having a top, a
bottom, a front, and a back;
20

Turning to FIGS. 12 and 13, these drawings show alterna

tive embodiments having integral quivers. As shown in FIG.
12, the projectile launcher 1000 includes a plurality of spaced
projectile clamps or grips 1002 disposed on the sides of the

covering 1006. These projectile clamps 1002 permit projec

a projectile stirrup carriage slidably engaged with the top of

the rail system, the projectile stirrup carriage being
adapted for supporting the back of the projectile for
selective release thereof;
a cocking mechanism slidably mounted to the rail system,

25

tiles B, such as a crossbow bolt, to be secured thereon. The

front end of the projectile launcher 1000 also includes an

the cocking mechanism having a cocking pawl carriage

selectively engageable with the projectile stirrup car

riage for cocking the projectile stirrup carriage;

integral projectile head guard 1004 hanging or depending

therefrom. The projectile head guard 1004 is a housing that
provides a protective cover for the crossbow projectile tip or
head. ln use, the user places the tip or head ofthe projectile B

l claim:

1. A projectile launcher, comprising:

an unencumbered and easy to operate crossbow-like weapon

in a significantly more compact and streamlined form. Since

a bow assembly attached to the riser base, the bow assem

bly being oriented reversed and vertically, the bow

30

assembly having at least one flex cable trained on the

projectile stirrup carriage, the bow assembly being

into the opening of the projectile head guard 1004 prior to

flexed when the projectile stirrup carriage is moved to a

securing the same to the clamps 1002.

As shown in FIG. 13, the projectile launcher 2000 includes

cocked position, the bow assembly accelerating sliding

a plurality of spaced projectile clamps or grips 2002 disposed

on the sides of the covering 2006. These projectile clamps
2002 permit projectiles B, such as a crossbow bolt, to be
secured thereon. The front end ofthe projectile launcher 2000
also includes an integral projectile head guard 2004 at the
front end ofthe projectile launcher 2000. Each projectile head

35

a crank mechanism attached to the rail system, the crank

mechanism selectively reciprocating the cocking car

riage; and
40

for receiving the tip or head of the projectile B, while the

45

disposed between adjacent projectiles B to assist in maintain

ing separation thereof and protecting the fietching from dam

age due to potential contact with the environment and user.
lt is to be understoodthat the projectile launcher 10 encom

passes a variety of alternatives. For example, the projectile

a trigger assembly attached to the riser base, the trigger

assembly selectively catching and releasing the proj ec

tile stirrup carriage.

guard 2004 includes a curved cover 2005 overlaying a scal

loped recess 2007. The scalloped recess 2007 provides room
cover 2005 protects the same from the environment and the
user. The projectile launcher 2000 can also include a fin 2008

movement of the projectile stirrup carriage when the

carriage is released from the cocked position in order to
fire the projectile;

50

2. The projectile launcher according to claim 1, wherein

said cocking pawl carriage comprises a base having an elon
gate recess and an elongate, biased cocking pawl pivotally
mounted in the recess, the cocking pawl being normally
biased upright so that a portion of the cocking pawl extends
above the top of the rail system.
3. The projectile launcher according to claim 2, wherein
said rail system comprises an elongate upper rail section and

launcher 10 can be constructed from a variety of durable

an elongate lower section, the upper rail section having an

materials, such as wood, plastic, metal, composites and com

binations thereof. Additionally, while the upper and lower rail
sections 32, 34 have been shown to be separate but integral

elongate slot for placement of the projectile and passage of

the cocking pawl, the lower rail section having an elongate
slot and a channel, said cocking pawl carriage being slidably

components, both can be constructed as a single, unitary

structure. The rail sections 32, 34 can also be provided in

55

various shapes, so long as they can support the cocking opera

tion. The cocking pawl carriage can also be siZed and shaped
accordingly to accommodate differently shaped rail sections
32, 34. Altemative gearing arrangements can be constructed
for transferring the rotating crank motion into corresponding
winding and reeling motion in the cocking mechanism 40.
For example, the transmission gear assembly 70 and bevel

4. The projectile launcher according to claim 3, wherein

said crank mechanism comprises:
60

a crank housing attached to the back of said rail system;

a crank rotatably mounted to the crank housing, the crank
having a gear on one side inside the crank housing;
an elongate crank arm having one end pivotally attached to

65

a handle attached to the other end of the crank arm, the

gear 67 can alternatively be replaced by a simple gear fixed to

the crank 64 and used in combination with a ratchet mecha

nism. Furthermore, various moving parts can be provided

with or constructed from friction-reducing material. As men

mounted in the channel, said cocking pawl extending through

the slot in the lower rail section and the slot in the upper rail
section.

the crank;
handle extending orthogonal to the crank arm, the crank
arm pivotal between an extended position for rotating