CA3036034C - Safety mechanism for firearms - Google Patents

Abstract

A discharge blocking device is compatible with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar. The trigger bar has a range of motion between a forward released position and a rearward discharge position. The discharge blocking device comprises a cover configured to be removably received in the magazine housing; a locking mechanism connected to the cover; and a rotating locking element connected to the locking mechanism and having a rotating projection configured to at least partially rotate between a locked state and an unlocked state. The rotating projection is configured to prevent movement of the trigger bar to the reward discharge position and prevent extraction of the discharge blocking device from the magazine housing when in the locked state; and enable movement of the trigger bar to the reward discharge position and enable extraction of the discharge blocking device from the magazine housing when in the unlocked state.

Description

PPH
SAFETY MECHANISM FOR FIREARMS
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional Application No.:
15/258,276, filed September 07,2016.
FIELD OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[002] The present inventions relate to firearms. More particularly, the present inventions relate to discharge blocking devices for various firearms.
BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[003] In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of accidental, negligent or unauthorized discharge from various firearms, particularly handguns. Such incidents typically occur when the trigger of the firearm is deliberately pulled for a purpose other than shooting, such as dry-fire practice, demonstration or function testing, but the ammunition is unintentionally left in the chamber. Unintentionally leaving a firearm loaded is more likely to occur when the individual handling the gun is poorly trained, and perhaps also with removable-magazine-fed firearms (as the magazine may be removed, giving an unloaded appearance even when a round remains chambered). Since most handguns are designed such that the magazine constantly remains inside, thus keeping the handgun constantly loaded, such accidental or otherwise undesired or unauthorized discharge is more likely to occur.

[004] A second common cause of negligent discharge is placement by the gun-handler of his/her finger on the trigger before deciding to shoot. With the finger so positioned, many activities may cause the finger to compress the trigger unintentionally. For example, if one attempts to holster the firearm with finger on trigger, the holster edge might drive the finger onto the trigger, and discharge is likely.

[005] Accidental discharges not involving a trigger-pull can also occur if the firearm is mechanically unsound: due to poor maintenance, abuse and/or the use of defective ammunition in the gun, may all lead to breakage.

[006] Furthermore, recently there has been a sharp increase in misuse of firearms with unauthorized users firing (for fun or by accident), and particularly youngsters using their parents firearms. Such incidents cause many injuries (and sometimes fatalities) since there are no means to prevent other people from using a gun of an authorized user.
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[007] It would, therefore, be advantageous to provide safety means for firearms so as to prevent unintentional and/or unauthorized firing and/or accidental discharge.
SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[008] There is thus provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, a discharge blocking device compatible with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar. The trigger bar has a range of motion between a forward released position and a rearward discharge position. The discharge blocking device includes a cover. The cover is configured to be removably received in the magazine housing. The discharge blocking device includes a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is connected to the cover. The discharge blocking device includes a rotating locking element. The rotating locking element is connected to the locking mechanism.
The rotating locking element has a rotating projection. The rotating projection is configured to at least partially rotate between a locked state and an unlocked state. The rotating projection is configured to prevent movement of the trigger bar to the reward discharge position when in the locked state. The rotating projection is configured to prevent extraction of the discharge blocking device from the magazine housing when in the locked state. The rotating projection is configured to enable movement of the trigger bar to the reward discharge position when in the unlocked state. The rotating projection is configured to enable extraction of the discharge blocking device from the magazine housing when in the unlocked state.

[009] In some embodiments, the cover is a tubular body defining an interior space. The rotating locking element is at least partially received within the interior space.
10101 In some embodiments, the rotating projection is configured to project from the cover.
[011] In some embodiments, the rotating projection is configured to rotate with rotation of the rotating locking element.
[012] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is configured to rotate the rotating locking clement.
[013] In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device comprises a base.
The base is configured to at least partially cover the locking mechanism.
[014] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises at least one motor gear coupled to a motor. The at least one motor gear is configured to rotate the rotating locking element.

[015] In some embodiments, the rotating locking element is configured to rotate about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension of the cover.
[016] In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device comprises a positioning switch. The positioning switch is configured to indicate when the discharge blocking device is not fully inserted into the magazine housing.
[017] In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device comprises a lock indicator.
The lock indicator is configured to indicate at least one of the locked state and the unlocked state.
[018] In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device is configured to accommodate a double stack of ammunition.
[019] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises an electronic lock.
[020] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is connected to a user identification segment.
[021] In some embodiments, the user identification segment is configured for biometric identification.
[022] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises a mechanical lock. The mechanical lock is configured to receive a physical key.
[023] In some embodiments, the physical key comprises an electronic chip.
[024] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises the electronic lock and the mechanical lock.
10251 In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device comprises a power storage unit.
[026] In some embodiments, the discharge blocking device comprises a power storage status indicator.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[027] Fig. IA schematically illustrates a right perspective view of a discharge blocking device, according to some embodiments;
[028] Fig. 1B schematically illustrates a left side cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device, according to some embodiments;
[029] Fig. 2A schematically illustrates a left side partial cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device in a locked state, according to some embodiments;
[030] Fig. 2B schematically illustrates a left side partial cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device in an unlocked state, according to some embodiments;

[031] Fig. 3A schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device, according to an embodiment;
[032] Fig. 3B schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the base of the discharge blocking device, according to an embodiment;
[033] Fig. 4A schematically illustrates a perspective view of the discharge blocking device accommodated in a magazine housing of a firearm, according to an embodiment;
10341 Fig. 4B schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device accommodated in the magazine housing of a firearm, according to an embodiment;
[035] Fig. 5A schematically illustrates a right perspective view of a rotating element discharge blocking device, according to some embodiments;
[036] Fig. 5B schematically illustrates a left side view of the rotating element discharge blocking device, according to some embodiments;
[037] Fig. 6A schematically illustrates a right side cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking device, according to an embodiment;
[038] Fig. 6B schematically illustrates a left side cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking device, according to an embodiment;
[039] Fig. 7A schematically illustrate a partial perspective view of the rotating element discharge blocking device adjacent to a trigger bar in a locked mode, according to an embodiment;
[040] Fig. 7B schematically illustrate a partial perspective view of the rotating element discharge blocking device adjacent to a trigger bar in an unlocked mode, according to an embodiment;
[041] Fig. 8 schematically illustrate a cross-sectional view of rotating element discharge blocking device, according to an embodiment; and [042] Fig. 9 shows a flow chart for a method of blocking discharge in a firearm, according to an embodiment.
[043] It will be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE CURRENT EMBODIMENTS
[044] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure.
However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments.
[045] Reference is now made to Figs. 1A-1B, which show a discharge blocking device 100, according to some embodiments. Fig. 1A schematically illustrates a right perspective view (with respect to the shooting direction of the firearm) of a discharge blocking device 100, and Fig. 1B schematically illustrates a left side cross-sectional view of the discharge blocking device 100.
[046] It is appreciated that discharge blocking device 100 (as a safety magazine) according to some embodiments is adapted to allow a user, operating a firearm, to block the discharge by having a safety mechanism (within the discharge blocking device) set in a locked mode, such that the discharge may be enabled only according to the selection by an authorized user with the safety mechanism. Therefore, in addition to the existing safety selector on the firearm, discharge blocking device 100 may provide further means for controlling the firing mode of the firearm (for example, locked or unlocked mode), further described hereinafter.
[047] Discharge blocking device 100 may include a cover 110 having a structure that is compatible with some commercially available magazines for firearms, for instance having a shape and dimensions corresponding to and adapted to be inserted into a magazine housing of, for example, a Glock handgun. Discharge blocking device 100 may further include a base 120 that at least partially covers a safety mechanism that is configured to block the discharge.
[048] In some embodiments, base 120 may have a shape protruding with respect to cover 110, such that easy gripping (of base 120) by a user operating the firearm may be allowed for insertion into and removal from the firearm. It is therefore appreciated that only with the base 120, the difference from commercially available magazines (for example, a Glock handgun) may be observed, when the discharge blocking device is inserted into a firearm.
[049] In some embodiments, cover 110 may have a top segment 130 that is configured to couple with the magazine housing in a compatible firearm (for example as shown in Fig.
4A). Top segment 130 may have an opening for insertion of cartridges therein (for example, in a single column or stacked), such that the cartridge that is last inserted partially protrudes through top segment 130 in order to engage the firearm upon coupling with the magazine housing. Thus, operation similar to regular magazines for firearms may be enabled as discharge blocking device 100 provides accommodation of cartridges, and also engagement of these cartridges with the corresponding firearm upon coupling.
[050] In some embodiments, cover 110 may further include a recess 180 that corresponds in shape to an external magazine catch 480 (as shown in Figs. 4A-4B) in order to allow locking the position of discharge blocking device 100 within the magazine housing once the external magazine catch 480 is inserted thereto. Thus, cover 110 may provide features similar to commercially available firearm magazines, as well as enhanced features for blocking discharge upon the selection of an authorized user.
[051] It may be appreciated that a locking element (or latch) 140, accommodated within discharge blocking device 100, may be configured to be capable of at least partially protruding from top segment 130 to block discharge of the firearm due to movement of element 140 from one (stowed) position to another (extended) position. In some embodiments, locking element 140 may be at least partially accommodated within a channel 114 inside cover 110. When discharge blocking device 100 is enabled (for example, in an unlocked mode) the firearm may be immediately operated, with locking element 140 configured to move within channel 114 between locked and unlocked states.
It is noted that the operation of locking element 140, for instance with movement within channel 114, may be configured to allow locking element 140 to protrude from discharge blocking device 100. Protrusion of locking element 140 may be performed in order to engage and/or block a compatible trigger bar of the firearm so as to push the trigger bar into a locked position during transition from unlocked state to locked state and thereby block the discharge.
[052] According to some embodiments, a top portion 142 of locking element 140 may protrude from top segment 130, in order to allow top portion 142 to engage the trigger bar when locking element 140 is in a locked state and top portion 142 protrudes from top segment 130. It may be appreciated that protruding top portion 142 may prevent movement of the trigger bar rearwards, namely towards the back of the barrel of the firearm, and thereby may prevent and/or block the discharge, as further described hereinafter.
[053] According to some embodiments, a side jag 144 of locking element 140 may protrude from channel 114 and be accommodated within volume 150 such that movement of locking element 140 within channel 114 may also move side jag 144 within volume 150 accordingly. Discharge blocking device 11:0 may further include a wedge 160 that may be built in into cover 110. In some embodiments, wedge 160 may at least partially protrude into volume 150 from a first end, for example when discharge blocking device 100 is in unlocked state. In some embodiments, wedge 160 may at least partially protrude from cover 110, through a compatible window 170, from a second end opposite to the first end, for example when discharge blocking device 100 is in a locked state. It may be appreciated that movement of locking clement 140 from unlocked state to locked state (for example causing top portion 142 to protrude from top segment 130) may cause side jag 144 to move within volume 150 so as to engage the first end of wedge 160.
[054] Reference is now made to Figs. 2A-2B, which schematically illustrate a left side partial cross-sectional view of discharge blocking device 100 in locked and in unlocked states, respectively, according to some embodiments.
[055] In some embodiments, wedge 160 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of side jag 144, such that movement of side jag 144 from unlocked state (for example, as shown in Fig. 2B) to locked state (for example, as shown in Fig. 2A) may at least partially push one end of wedge 160 outwardly from cover 110 in order to at least partially protrude the second end of wedge 160 from window 170, out of cover 110. Thus, in a locked state while top portion 142 may protrude from top segment 130 to engage and/or block the trigger bar, side jag 144 may move the second end of wedge 160 so as to at least partially protrude the second end of wedge 160 from window 170. It may be appreciated that wedge 160 protruding from window 170 may engage with magazine housing and thereby prevent the safety mechanism from being removed from the firearm. In some embodiments, top portion 142 may block movement of the trigger bar backwards at substantially the same time as wedge 160 blocks movement forwards. In some embodiments, wedge 160 protruding from window 170 may lock discharge blocking device 100 to the magazine housing and thereby prevent removal of the discharge blocking device 100, as further described hereinafter.
[056] In some embodiments, in an unlocked state side jag 144 may move within volume 150 such that wedge 160 is not engaged to it, and thereby second end of wedge 160 may not engage the magazine housing (for example, as shown in Figs. 4B). In some embodiments, wedge 160 may have a spring like effect (for example, spring loaded) that may enable self-inward return towards volume 150 when not engaged by side jag 144.
[057] Referring back to Fig. 1B, locking element 140 may further include a bottom portion 141 (for example, on the opposite side of locking element 140 in respect of top portion 142) that may be in contact with a sensor 191 that is configured to detect movement of bottom portion 141 between locked and unlocked modes. For example, sensor 191 may be an optical sensor having an optical path that is blocked when locking element 140 is in unlocked mode. In some embodiments, sensor 191 may be operably coupled to a central controller 310 (for example, a processor, denoted "PCB" in Fig. 3B) that is configured to electrically control the operation of discharge blocking device 100. In some embodiments, in case of electrical malfunction, manual operation of discharge blocking device 100 may also be possible, as further described hereinafter.
[058] According to some embodiments, bottom portion 141 may be also in contact with a switching element 190 that is configured to allow switching between locked and unlocked modes. Switching element 190 may be operationally coupled to a motor 122 (for example, accommodated within base 120) capable of electrically and/or mechanically moving locking element 140 (as further described hereinafter) between locked and unlocked modes. In some embodiments, switching element 190 may be of helical shape and/or include a lead screw, which is capable of translating rotational movement into linear movement, so as to allow rotational movement of switching element 190 to be translated into lateral movement of locking element 140. Thus, rotational movement of switching element 190 may move bottom portion 141 coupled thereto and thereby linearly move locking element 140 in channel 114 between locked and unlocked states. In some embodiments, if bottom portion 141 engages the bottom end of switching element 190, then discharge blocking device 100 is in "FIRE" mode and discharge is allowed, whereas if bottom portion 141 engages the top end of switching element 190, then discharge blocking device 100 is in "SAFE" mode (for example, as shown in Fig. 1B) and discharge is prevented with blocking of the trigger bar.
10591 According to some embodiments, discharge blocking device 100 may further include a user identification segment 121. User identification segment 121 may be operably coupled to the locking mechanism (for example, inside base 120) within discharge blocking device 100 and thereby coupled to locking element 140 so as to disable the blocking, in other words switch to "unlocked" mode upon identification of an authorized user. User identification segment 121 may include biometric user identification (for example, fingerprint identification) unit, password identification means with a dedicated user interface, or any other identification means (for example buttons to be pressed by the user, for example for entering a secret buttons' sequence, and/or wireless communication means such as radio frequency or near field communication). In some embodiments, user identification segment 121 may further include storage of ID
data for storing Ill data of authorized users. In some embodiments, discharge blocking device 100 may further include at least one indicator that is configured to indicate the locking mode of discharge blocking device 100, for example, "locked", "unlocked", "error", etc. The user may control the mode of discharge (and thereby change the indication of the indicator) in order to change the mode of discharge blocking device 100, for instance by placing a finger on a fingerprint sensor and identifying via fingerprint in order to switch the device to an "unlocked" mode. In some embodiments, changing from "unlocked" to "locked" mode may be done automatically by the device when the safety device detects an insertion of safety device into magazine housing. It should be noted that user identification segment 121 and the at least one indicator may be electrically coupled to the locking mechanism, for example, by means of controller 310, so as to allow control of the locking mode of discharge blocking device 100. In some embodiments, a central controller 310 (for example, a processing unit, as shown in Fig. 3B) may control the operation of discharge blocking device. Specifically, controller, such as controller 310, may control switching between "locked" and "unlocked" modes based on input from user identification segment 121.
[060] In some non-limiting embodiments, discharge blocking device 100 may further include a power storage unit, for example, a battery, configured to provide power for the locking mechanism, so as to allow operation of the mechanical elements. In some embodiments, a battery status indicator may also be provided with the indicators. It is appreciated that, upon insertion into a magazine housing, discharge blocking device 100 may become automatically in a "locked" state with locking element 140 protruding and blocking the trigger bar of the firearm.
[061] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may fuither include a communication unit capable of sending and receiving wireless data (for example, via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, or cellular networks). The communication unit may therefore allow a user to set conditions for the discharge blocking device to become locked or unlocked, as may be desired. For example, once the discharge blocking device detects data that indicates that the firearm is inside an authorized area (for instance data from a GPS
device), then the locking is removed and the firearm may be used. Alternatively, a dedicated signal may be wirelessly received by the discharge blocking device such that a user may select that in a particular time the locking is removed, no matter who operates the firearm.
For example, a training officer at the police academy may wirclessly remove the locking from multiple firearms that are scheduled for practice.
[062] Reference is now made to Fig. 3A, which schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of discharge blocking device 100, wherein the cross-section plane is performed along imaginary dashed line 101 of Fig. 1A, according to some embodiments.
Discharge blocking device 100 may include a space 270 covered by cover 110 and dedicated for accommodation of ammunition (or cartridges) 70 (for example, fourteen cartridges in a double stack) as in a commercially available magazine. In some embodiments, the external structure of cover 110 may correspond to that of a commercially available magazine capable of accommodating cartridges (for example, in a stacked column), such that, when discharge blocking safety mechanism is provided, for instance locking element 140 embedded into the wall of cover 110, cartridges may be accommodated within discharge blocking device 100. It is noted that discharge blocking device 100 may be operated both as a regular magazine, storing cartridges at dedicated space 270, such that the firearm can be used in the regular fashion, as well as be operated as a discharge blocking device that prevents unwanted (or unauthorized) use of firearm, when in locked mode.
[063] Reference is now made to Fig. 3B, which schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of base 120, wherein the cross-section is carried out parallel to locking element 140, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, base 120 includes a positioning lever 300, embedded therein, which is initially in an "open" state and configured to detect accommodation of discharge blocking device 100 within the magazine housing.
Positioning lever 300 may be configured to be capable of protruding from base 120, such that, upon insertion into the magazine housing of a firearm, positioning lever 300 may engage the inner wall of the magazine housing and be forced to move into base 120 (for example, by means of a loaded spring). Upon accommodation within the magazine housing and detection thereof, positioning lever 300 may move back into base 120 and switch to a "closed" state. In some embodiments, at a "closed" state positioning lever 300 may engage a positioning sensor 350 that is configured to provide a signal (for example, to central controller 310) corresponding to detected states.
[0641 It may be appreciated that positioning lever 300 may provide an initial locking mechanism, that may be configured to disable the operation of the firearm unless in "closed" state. In some embodiments, positioning lever 300 may be coupled to the positioning sensor 350 that is capable of electrically detecting change between -open" and "closed" states.
110651 Upon switching to a "closed" state (in other words, detection of discharge blocking device 100 within the magazine housing) by positioning lever 300, locking element 140 may, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, be automatically operated to move to a "locked" mode and block the trigger bar of the firearm so as to block any discharge until the user switches to "unlocked" mode. For example, upon insertion into a magazine housing, positioning lever 300 may engage the inner wall of the magazine housing and be forced to move inwardly into base 120 to engage positioning sensor 350.

Positioning sensor 350 may then send a signal to central controller 310 indicating that discharge blocking device 100 is in a "closed state" (for example, within the magazine housing). This may cause control motor 122 to move locking element 140 to a "locked"
position blocking the trigger bar. In some embodiments, motor 122 may be coupled to switching element 190 with movable gears such that movement of a first gear coupled to motor 122 may move second gear coupled to switching element 190.
[066] It should be noted that, initially, positioning lever 300 may be in an "open" state and locking element 140 is in "unlocked" mode, such that, upon engagement with the magazine housing positioning lever 300 may switch to "closed" state and thereby locking element 140 moved to a "locked" mode. Thus, discharge blocking device 100 may automatically switch to "locked" mode and prevent discharge upon engagement with the magazine housing.
[067] It may be appreciated that positioning lever 300 and wedge 160 protrude from the back side of cover 110 (adjacent to user identification segment 121), opposite to top portion 142, protruding from the frontal side of cover 110 (the side that points toward the barrel end when inserted into the firearm).
[068] According to some embodiments, discharge blocking device 100 may further include a manual override segment 330 that is configured to allow a user to manually switch between locked and unlocked states, for instance when motor 122 is not responsive, when power source providing power to the control system is lost, and the like.
In some embodiments, a user may operate manual override segment 330 using a dedicated key. In some embodiments, a user may connect an external device to control discharge blocking device 100 (for example, via USB cable), and thereby control the controller, for example managing user settings or upgrading the software.
[069] Reference is now made to Figs. 4A-4B, which show the discharge blocking device 100 accommodated in a magazine housing of a compatible firearm 400, with top portion of firearm 400 removed. Fig. 4A schematically illustrates a perspective view of discharge blocking device 100 accommodated in the magazine housing of a firearm 400, and Fig.
4B schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the same 120, according to some embodiments.
[070] It may be appreciated that the user cannot squeeze the trigger to discharge the firearm (in a locked mode) since, upon insertion into magazine housing of firearm 400, locking element 140 may prevent any backward movement of trigger bar 440. In order to allow discharge, the user may change the state of discharge blocking device 100 from "locked" to "unlocked", for example by using user identification segment 121 such that locking element 140 moves towards base 120 and no longer protrudes from the discharge blocking device 100, and then trigger bar 440 may be operated to discharge the firearm 400.
[071] Reference is now made to Figs. 5A-5B, which show a rotating clement discharge blocking device 500 in a locked mode. Fig. 5A schematically illustrates a right perspective view (with respect to the shooting direction of the firearm) of a rotating element discharge blocking device 500, and Fig. 5B schematically illustrates a left side view of the rotating element discharge blocking device 500, according to some embodiments.
[072] It is appreciated that rotating element discharge blocking device 500 (as a safety magazine) according to some of the embodiments is adapted to allow a user, operating a firearm, to block the discharge by having the safety mechanism (within the discharge blocking device) in a locked mode, such that the discharge may be enabled only according to the selection by an authorized user with the safety mechanism. Therefore, in addition to the existing safety selector on the firearm, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may provide further means for controlling the firing mode of the firearm (for example, locked or unlocked mode), further described hereinafter.
[073] Discharge blocking device 500 may include a cover 510 having a structure that is compatible with some commercially available magazines for firearms, for instance having a shape and dimensions corresponding to and adapted to be inserted into a magazine housing of, for example, a Glock handgun. Discharge blocking device 500 may further include a base 520 that at least partially covers a safety mechanism that is configured to block the discharge.
[074] In some embodiments, base 520 may have a shape protruding with respect to cover 510, such that easy gripping (of base 520) by a user operating the firearm may be allowed for insertion into and removal from the firearm. It is, therefore, appreciated that only with the base 520, the difference from commercially available magazines (for example, a Glock handgun) may be observed, when the discharge blocking device is inserted into a firearm.
[075] In some embodiments, cover 510 may have a top segment 530 that is configured to couple with the magazine housing in a compatible firearm. Top segment 530 may have an opening for insertion of cartridges 70 therein (for example, in a single column or double stacked), such that the cartridge that is last inserted partially protrudes through top segment 530 in order to engage the firearm upon coupling with the magazine housing.
Thus, operation similar to regular magazines for firearms may be enabled as rotating element discharge blocking device 500 provides accommodation of cartridges, and also engagement of these cartridges with the corresponding firearm upon coupling.
Operation may include cycling of the cartridges. For example, a slide of the firearm may be manipulated in such a way to cause the cartridge that is last inserted to be loaded into and/or ejected from a barrel of the firearm.
[076] In some embodiments, cover 510 may further include a recess 580 that corresponds in shape to an external magazine catch in order to allow locking the position of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 within the magazine housing once the external magazine catch is inserted thereto. Thus, cover 510 may provide features similar to commercially available firearm magazines, as well as enhanced features for blocking discharge upon the selection of an authorized user.
[077] According to some embodiments, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may further include a positioning switch 550 which is initially in an "open"
state and configured to detect accommodation of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 within the magazine housing. Positioning switch 550 (for example, spring loaded) may be configured to be capable of protruding from base 520, such that upon insertion into the magazine housing of a firearm, positioning switch 550 may engage the inner wall of the magazine housing and be forced to move into base 520. Upon accommodation within the magazine housing and detection thereof, positioning switch 550 may move back into base 520 and switch to a "closed" state. In some embodiments, at a "closed" state positioning switch 550 may engage a corresponding positioning sensor 555 (for example, as shown in Fig. 6B) that is configured to provide a signal (for example, to the central controller) corresponding to detected states.
[078] Upon switching to a "closed" state (in other words, detection of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 within the magazine housing) by positioning switch 550, a rotating locking element 540 (for example, as shown in Figs. 6A-6B) may be automatically operated to move to a "locked" mode and block the trigger bar of the firearm so as to block any discharge until an authorized user switches to "unlocked"
mode. For example, upon insertion into a magazine housing, positioning switch 550 may engage the inner wall of the magazine housing and move back into base 520 to engage the positioning sensor 555 (for example, as shown in Fig. 6B). A corresponding signal may then be sent to the central controller that rotating element discharge blocking device 500 is in a "closed state" (for example, within the magazine housing) so as to move rotating projection 542 to a locked" position blocking the trigger bar. In some embodiments, in a locked position, rotating projection 542 may prevent extraction of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 from the firearm and thereby prevent ejection of discharge blocking device 500 (and replacement with a standard magazine) until returned to unlocked position.
[079] It should be noted that, initially, positioning switch 550 may be in an "open" state and rotating locking clement 540 is in "unlocked" mode, such that upon engagement with the magazine housing positioning switch 550 may switch to "closed" state and thereby rotating projection 542 moved to a "locked" mode. Thus, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may automatically switch to "locked" mode and prevent discharge upon engagement with the magazine housing.
[080] According to some embodiments, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may further include a user identification segment 521. User identification segment 521 may be operably coupled to the locking mechanism (for example, inside base 520) within rotating element discharge blocking device 500 configured to disable the blocking, in other words, switch to "unlocked" mode upon identification of an authorized user. User identification segment 521 may include bionietric user identification (for example, fingerprint identification), password identification with a dedicated user interface, wireless communication means such as radio frequency or near field communication, or any other identification means (for example buttons to be pressed by the user). In some embodiments, user identification segment 521 may further include storage of Ill data for storing ID data of authorized users. In some embodiments, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may further include at least one indicator that is configured to indicate the locking mode of rotating element discharge blocking device 500, for example, "locked", "unlocked", "error", etc. In some embodiments, mode of discharge (and thereby change the indication of the indicator) in order to change the mode of discharge blocking device 500, for instance by placing a finger on a fingerprint sensor and identifying via fingerprint in order to switch the device to an "unlocked" mode. In some embodiments, changing from "unlocked" to "locked" mode may be done automatically by the device when the safety device detects an insertion of safety device into magazine housing.
[081] It should be noted that user identification segment 521 and indicator may be electrically coupled to the locking mechanism so as to allow control of the locking mode of rotating element discharge blocking device 500. In some embodiments, a central controller (for example, a processing unit) may control the operation of rotating element discharge blocking device 500. Specifically, such a controller may control switching between "locked" and "unlocked" modes based on input from user identification segment 521.

[082] In some non-limiting embodiments, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may further include a power storage unit, for example, a battery, configured to provide power for the locking mechanism, so as to allow operation of the mechanical elements. In some embodiments, a power storage (for example a battery) status indicator may also be provided with the indicators. It is appreciated that, upon insertion into a magazine housing, rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may be activated automatically and set to a "locked" state with a rotating projection 542 of locking element 540, protruding and blocking the trigger bar of the firearm, as further described in Figs. 7A-7B.
[083] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism (for example, within base 520) may further include a communication unit capable of sending and receiving wireless data (for example, via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, or cellular networks). The communication unit may therefore allow a user to set conditions for the discharge blocking device to become locked or unlocked, as may be desired. For example, once the discharge blocking device detects data that indicates that the firearm is inside an authorized area (for instance data from a GPS device), then the locking is removed and the firearm may be used.
Alternatively, a dedicated signal may be wirelessly received by the discharge blocking device such that a user may select that in a particular time the locking is removed, no matter who operates the firearm. For example, a training officer at the police academy may wirelessly remove the locking from multiple firearms that are scheduled for practice.
[084] Reference is now made to Figs. 6A-6B, which show a cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking device 500 in an unlocked mode. Fig. 6A
schematically illustrates a right side cross-sectional view (with respect to the shooting direction of the firearm) of the rotating element discharge blocking device 500, and Fig.
6B schematically illustrates a left side cross-sectional view of the rotating element discharge blocking device 500, according to some embodiments.
[085] It may be appreciated that a rotating projection 542 of rotating locking element 540, accommodated within rotating element discharge blocking device 500, may be configured to be capable of protruding from top segment 130 to block discharge of the firearm. In some embodiments, rotating locking clement 540 may be at least partially accommodated within a wall inside cover 510. When rotating element discharge blocking device 500 is enabled (for example, in an unlocked mode) the firearm may be immediately operated, where rotating locking element 540 may be configured to allow movement between locked and unlocked states. It is noted that the operation of rotating locking element 540 may be configured to allow rotating locking element 540 to rotatably protrude from rotating element discharge blocking device 500 in order to engage and/or block a compatible trigger bar of the firearm so as to push the trigger bar into a locked position during transition from unlocked state to locked state and thereby block the discharge. It may be appreciated that rotating projection 542 may prevent movement of the trigger bar rearwards, namely towards the back of the barrel of the firearm, and thereby may prevent and/or block the discharge, as further described in Figs. 7A-7B.
[086] In various embodiments, rotating locking element 540 may be accommodated within the wall of cover 510. In some embodiments, rotating locking element 540 may comprise a rotatable rod configured to rotate rotating projection 542 between locked and unlocked states. The rotating projection 542 may be accommodated within a corner of cover 510, thereby occupying minimal space and allowing accommodation of ammunition (comprising bullets) 70 within a dedicated space inside cover 510, thereby allowing use of standard magazines. It may be appreciated that rotating locking element may rotate about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension of the cover.
[087] In various embodiments, discharge blocking device 500 may be configured to allow manipulation of a slide of a firearm employing the discharge blocking device 500. The discharge blocking device 500 may allow the manipulation of the slide in a locked state.
Manipulation of the slide may enable ammunition 70 to be loaded into and/or ejected from a barrel of the firearm.
[088] In various embodiments, rotating locking element 540 may further include a bottom portion 544 that may be in contact with a sensor 591 that is configured to detect movement of bottom portion 544 between locked and unlocked modes, as further described in Fig. 8. In some embodiments, sensor 591 may be operably coupled to a central controller 610 that is configured to electrically control the operation of discharge blocking device 500. In some embodiments, in case of electrical malfunction, manual operation of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 may also be possible, as further described hereinafter.
[089] According to some embodiments, bottom portion 544 may be also in contact with a switching element 590 that is configured to allow switching between locked and unlocked modes. Switching element 590 may be operationally coupled to a motor 522 (for example, accommodated within base 120) capable of electrically and/or mechanically moving rotating locking element 540 (as further described in Fig. 8) between locked and unlocked modes. In some embodiments, rotational movement of switching element 590 may move bottom portion 544 coupled thereto and thereby rotate locking element 540 between locked and unlocked states.

[090] According to some embodiments. base 520 may include a bottom cover configured to cover a manual override segment that is configured to allow a user to manually switch between locked and unlocked states, for instance when motor 522 is not responsive. In some embodiments, a user may operate the manual override segment using a dedicated key. In some embodiments, a user may connect an external device to control discharge blocking device 500 (for example, via USB cable), and thereby control the controller, for example managing user settings or upgrading the software.
[091] Reference is now made to Figs. 7A-7B, which schematically illustrate a partial perspective view of rotating element discharge blocking device 500 adjacent to a trigger bar 700 in locked and unlocked modes, respectively, according to some embodiments. In various embodiments, rotation of rotating locking element 540 may rotate rotating projection 542 and thereby allow blocking of trigger bar 700.
[092] It may be appreciated that the user cannot squeeze the trigger to discharge the firearm (in a locked mode) since upon insertion into magazine housing of a compatible firearm, rotating projection 542 of rotating locking element 540 may prevent any backward movement of trigger bar 700. In order to allow discharge, an authorized user may change the state of discharge blocking device 500 from "locked" to "unlocked", for example by using user identification segment 521 such that rotating projection 542 moves towards cover 510 and no longer projects from the discharge blocking device 500, and then trigger bar 700 may be operated to discharge the firearm 400.
[093] Reference is now made to Fig. 8, which schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of rotating element discharge blocking device 500, showing the locking mechanism within base 520 wherein the cross-section is carried out perpendicular to user identification segment 521, according to some embodiments. Base 520 may include a motor gear 822 operably coupled to motor 522, wherein central controller 610 is configured to send a signal to motor 522 to rotate motor gear 822. In some embodiments, motor gear 822 may be rotated manually, for instance using the manual override segment.
[094] In some embodiments, motor gear 822 may be coupled to switching element 590 (for example, a gear) such that rotation of motor gear 822 may consequently rotate switching element 590. In some embodiments, motor gear 822 may be operably coupled to bottom portion 544 of rotating locking element 540 such that rotation of motor gear 822 may also move bottom portion 544. It may be appreciated that Fig. 8 shows rotating element discharge blocking device 500 in an unlocked mode with bottom portion adjacent to motor gear 822, and a dashed line indicated the position of bottom portion 540b in a locked mode, being adjacent to switching element 590.

110951 In some embodiments, switching from unlocked mode to locked mode may move motor gear 822 (and consequently rotate switching element 590) so as to move bottom portion 544 from being adjacent to motor gear 822 to being adjacent to switching element 590, and vice versa. It may be appreciated that movement of bottom portion 544 may accordingly rotate rotating locking element 540 and thereby rotate rotating projection 542 to switch between locked and unlocked modes.
[096] Reference is now made to Fig. 9, which shows a flow chart for a method of blocking discharge in a firearm, according to some embodiments. The method may include inserting a discharge blocking device into a magazine housing at block 910.
The method may include engaging a locking element of the discharge blocking device with a trigger bar at block 920.
[097] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may be compatible with a firearm. The firearm may have a magazine housing. The firearm may have a trigger bar.
The trigger bar may have a range of motion between a forward released position and a rearward discharge position. The discharge blocking device may include a cover. The cover may be configured to be removably received in the magazine housing. The discharge blocking device may include a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be connected to the cover. The discharge blocking device may include a rotating locking element. The rotating locking element may be connected to the locking mechanism. The rotating locking element may have a rotating projection. The rotating projection may be configured to at least partially rotate between a locked state and an unlocked state. The rotating projection may be configured to prevent movement of the trigger bar to the reward discharge position when in the locked state. The rotating projection may be configured to prevent extraction of the discharge blocking device from the magazine housing when in the locked state. The rotating projection may be configured to enable movement of the trigger bar to the reward discharge position when in the unlocked state. The rotating projection may be configured to enable extraction of the discharge blocking device from the magazine housing when in the unlocked state.
[098] In some embodiments, a cover may be a tubular body. The tubular body may define an interior space. A rotating locking element may be at least partially received within the interior space.
[099] In some embodiments, a rotating projection may be configured to project from a cover.
[100] In some embodiments, a rotating projection may be configured to rotate with rotation of a rotating locking element.

[101] In some embodiments, a locking mechanism may be configured to rotate a rotating locking element.
[102] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may comprise a base.
The base is configured to at least partially cover a locking mechanism.
[103] In some embodiments, a locking mechanism may comprise at least one motor gear coupled to a motor. The at least one motor gear may be configured to rotate a rotating locking clement.
[104] In some embodiments, a rotating locking element may be configured to rotate about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension of a cover.
[105] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may comprise a positioning switch. The positioning switch may be configured to indicate when the discharge blocking device is not fully inserted into a magazine housing.
[106] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may comprise a lock indicator.
The lock indicator may be configured to indicate at least one of a locked state and an unlocked state.
[107] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may be configured to accommodate a double stack of ammunition.
11081 In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may be configured to enable manipulation of a slide of a firearm employing a discharge blocking device in a locked state.
11091 In some embodiments, a locking mechanism may comprise an electronic lock.
[110] In some embodiments, a locking mechanism may be connected to a user identification segment.
[111] In some embodiments, a user identification segment may be configured for biometric identification.
[112] In some embodiments, a locking mechanism may comprise a mechanical lock. The mechanical lock may be configured to receive a physical key.
[113] In some embodiments, a physical key may comprise an electronic chip.
[114] In some embodiments, a locking mechanism may comprise an electronic lock and a mechanical lock.
[115] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may comprise a power storage unit.
[116] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may comprise a power storage status indicator.

[117] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may be compatible with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar. The discharge blocking device may include a cover. The cover may have a shape compatible with the magazine housing. The discharge blocking device may include a base. The base may cover a locking mechanism.
The discharge blocking device may include a locking element. The locking element may be at least partially accommodated in a channel inside the cover.
11181 In some embodiments, a locking clement may be configured to allow movement within a channel between a locked state and an unlocked state in order to block a trigger bar of a firearm.
[119] In some embodiments, a locking element may be adapted to push a trigger bar into a locked position during transition from an unlocked state to a locked state.
[120] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may include a lead screw. The lead screw may be configured to allow lateral movement of a locking element upon rotation of the lead screw.
[121] In some embodiments, a cover may be configured to couple with a magazine housing.
[122] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may include a positioning lever.
The positioning lever may be configured to indicate accommodation of the discharge blocking device within a magazine housing.
[123] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may include a dedicated space for accommodation of ammunition.
[124] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may include a wedge.
The wedge may be configured to lock the discharge blocking device to a magazine housing.
[125] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may include at least one user identification unit. The user identification unit may include biometric identification. The wedge may be movable by movement of a locking element.
[126] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may include a mechanical identification override device.
[127] In some embodiments, a locking element is configured to lock a discharge blocking device to a firearm in a locked state.
[128] There is thus provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for locking a discharge blocking device to a firearm and preventing accidental discharge. The method may include inserting the discharge blocking device into the magazine housing. The method may include engaging a locking element of the discharge blocking device with the trigger bar. In some embodiments, the locking element may be configured to block the trigger bar upon engagement.
[129] In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may be compatible with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar. The discharge blocking device may include a cover. The cover may have a shape compatible with the magazine housing.
The discharge blocking device may include a base. The base may be configured to cover a locking mechanism. The discharge blocking device may include a rotating locking element. The rotating locking element may have a blocking segment. The rotating locking element may be at least partially accommodated inside a wall of the cover. In some embodiments, the rotating locking element may be configured to at least partially rotate between a locked state and an unlocked state about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension of the cover. The rotating locking element may be configured to block the trigger bar of the firearm with the blocking segment.
[130] In some embodiments, a locking element may be configured to lock a discharge blocking device to a firearm in a locked state. In some embodiments, a rotating locking element may include a rotating projection. The rotating projection may be configured to rotate with rotation of the rotating locking element. The rotating projection may be configured to project from a cover of the discharge blocking device to block a trigger bar of a firearm. In some embodiments, the rotating locking element may include a bottom portion operably coupled to a locking mech an ism. The locking mechanism may be at least partially covered by a base of the discharge blocking device. The bottom portion may be configured to rotate the rotating locking element.
[131] In some embodiments, a base may include at least one gear coupled to a motor. The at least one gear may be capable of moving a bottom portion between a locked state and an unlocked state. In some embodiments, a cover may be configured to couple with a magazine housing of a firearm. In some embodiments, a discharge blocking device may include a positioning switch. The positioning switch may be configured to indicate accommodation of the discharge blocking device within the magazine housing.
[132] Unless explicitly stated, the method embodiments described herein arc not constrained to a particular order in time or chronological sequence.
Additionally, some of the described method elements can be skipped, or they can be repeated, during a sequence of operations of a method.
[133] Various embodiments have been presented. Each of these embodiments may of course include features from other embodiments presented, and embodiments not specifically described may include various features described herein.

[134] A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that components shown in and described with respect to the figures are provided by way of example only.
Numerous other configurations are possible. Accordingly, embodiments should not be construed as being limited to any particular configuration. It will be appreciated that while the disclosure may in certain instances describe a single example embodiment, there may be other configurations, shapes, and orientations of facilities and components without departing from example embodiments. A person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize the applicability of embodiments to various firearms, firearm components, firearm magazines, ammunition, and combinations thereof known in the art. A person of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that embodiments may comprise forged, milled, injection molded, compression molded, and/or printed parts comprising one material or a plurality of materials. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that components and elements shown in and described with respect to FIGS. 1-9 are provided by way of example only. Numerous other firearms, firearm components, firearm magazines, and various component configurations are possible. Accordingly, embodiments should not be construed as being limited to any particular firearm, or firearm component.
Additionally, it is to be recognized that, the claimed invention is not limited to any one or more of the above described embodiments. Various features, aspects, and/or components of the above described embodiments may be used individually or jointly. Accordingly, the claims set forth below should be construed in view of the full breadth of the embodiments as disclosed herein.
[135] In this specification, "a" and "an" and similar phrases are to be interpreted as "at least one" and "one or more." References to "a", "an", and "one" are not to be interpreted as "only one". References to "an'' embodiment in this disclosure are not necessarily to the same embodiment.
[136] Some embodiments may employ processing hardware. Processing hardware may include one or more processors, computer equipment, embedded system, machines and/or the like. The processing hardware may be configured to execute instructions.
The instructions may be stored on a machine-readable medium. According to some embodiments, the machine-readable medium (for example automated data medium) may be a medium configured to store data in a machine-readable format that may be accessed by an automated sensing device. Examples of machine-readable media include:
flash memory, memory cards, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), solid state drives, and/or the like.

PPH
[137] Furthermore, many features presented above are described as being optional through the use of "may" or the use of parentheses. For the sake of brevity and legibility, the present disclosure does not explicitly recite each and every permutation that may be obtained by choosing from the set of optional features. However, the present disclosure is to be interpreted as explicitly disclosing all such permutations. For example, a system described as having three optional features may be embodied in seven different ways, namely with just one of the three possible features, with any two of the three possible features or with all three of the three possible features, [138] Further, the purpose of the Abstract of the Disclosure is to enable the Patent Office and the public generally, and especially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application.
The Abstract of the Disclosure is not intended to be limiting as to the scope in any way.

Claims (57)

1. A discharge blocking device compatible with a firearm having a magazine housing and a trigger bar, the trigger bar having a range of motion between a forward released position and a rearward discharge position, the discharge blocking device comprising:
a cover defining a longitudinal dimension configured to be removably received in fix magazine housing;
a locking mechanism connected to the cover; and a rotating locking element configured to rotate about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension and connected to the locking mechanism and having an opposed second end having a rotating projection configured to at least partially rotate between a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein the rotating projection is configured to prevent movement of the trigger bar to the reward discharge position and to prevent extraction of the discharge blocking device front the magazine housing when in the locked state, and wherein the rotating projection is configured to enable movement of the trigger bar to the reward discharge position and to enable extraction of the discharge blocking device from the magazine housing when in the unlocked state.

2. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1, wherein the cover being a tubular body defining an interior space, and wherein the rotating locking element is at least partially received within the interior space.

3. The discharge blocking device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rotating projection is configured to project from the cover.

4. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rotating projection is configured to rotate with rotation of the rotating locking element.

5. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to rotate the rotating locking element.

6. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a base, the base configured to at least partially cover the locking mechanism.

7. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one motor gear coupled to a motor, the at least one motor gear configured to rotate the rotating locking element.

8. The discharge blocking device according to any orle of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a positioning switch configured to indicate when the discharge blocking device is not fully inserted into the magazine housing.

9. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a lock indicator configured to indicate at least one of the locked state and the unlocked state.

10. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the discharge blocking device is configured to accommodate a double stack of ammunition.

11. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the locking mechanism comprises an electronic lock.

12. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the locking mechanism is connected to a user identification segment.

13. The discharge blocking device according to claim 12, wherein the user identification segment is configured for biometric identification.

14. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a mechanical lock configured to receive a physical key.

15. The discharge blocking device according to claim 14, wherein the physical key comprises an electronic chip.

16. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the locking mechanism comprises an electronic lock and a mechanical lock.

17. The discharge blocking device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a power storage unit.

18. The discharge blocking device according to claim 17, further comprising a power storage status indicator.

19. A magazine for a firearm comprising:
a cover defining an ammunition compartment, the cover having an upper end defining an ammunition exit aperture and a lower end opposed to the upper end, the cover defining a longitudinal dimension;
a locking mechanism connected to the lower end of the cover, the locking mechanism having a locked condition and an unlocked condition;
a user interface connected to the locking mechanism, the user interface adapted to enable a user to select between the locked condition and the unlocked condition;
a rotating locking element configured to rotate about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension, the rotating locking element having a first end connected to the locking mechanism, the rotating locking element having an opposed second end having a rotating projection configured to at least partially rotate between the locked condition and the unlocked condition, the rotating projection adapted to move between a first position when the locking mechanism is in the locked condition in which at least one of firearm operation and magazine extraction are prevented, and a second position when the locking mechanism is in the unlocked condition in which firearm operation and magazine extraction are enabled.

20. The magazine according to claim 19, wherein the cover being a tubular body defining an interior space, and wherein the rotating locking element is at least partially received within the interior space.

21. The magazine according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the rotating projection is configured to project from the cover,

22. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the rotating projection is configured to rotate with rotation of the rotating locking element.

23. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to rotate the rotating locking element.

24. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 23, further comprising a base, the base configured to at least partially cover the locking mechanism.

25. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 24, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one motor gear coupled to a motor, the at least one motor gear configured to rotate the rotating locking ,element.

26. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein the cover has opposed sidewalls, a front wall, and a rear wall, and wherein the rotating locking element is proximate to one of the opposed sidewalls and to the front wall.

27. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein the cover has opposed sidewalls, a front wall, and a rear wall, and wherein the rotating locking element is proximate to the rear wall.

28. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 27, wherein the cover has an exterior profile adapted to be received in a firearm magazine housing, and wherein the rotating projection is within the exterior profile to enable extraction of the magazine when in the unlocked condition and protrudes from the exterior profile to prevent extraction of the magazine when in the locked condition.

29. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 28, further comprising a positioning switch configured to indicate when the magazine is not fully inserted into a magazine housing.

30. The magazine according to any one of claims claim 19 to 29, further comprising a lock indicator configured to indicate at least one of the locked condition and the unlocked condition.

31. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 30, wherein the cover is configured to accommodate a double stack of ammunition.

32. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 31, wherein the locking mechanism comprises an electronic lock.

33. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the locking mechanism is connected to a user identification segment.

34. The magazine according to claim 33, wherein the user identification segment is configured for biometric identification.

35. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 31, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a mechanical lock configured to receive a physical key.

36. The magazine according to claim 35, wherein the physical key comprises an electronic chip.

37. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 36, wherein the locking mechanism comprises an electronic lock and a mechanical lock.

38. The magazine according to any one of claims 19 to 37, wherein the firearm includes a trigger element movable between a rest position and a discharge position, and wherein when the rotating locking element is in the locked condition the rotating locking element is adapted to contact the trigger element to prevent motion of the trigger element.

39. A lock for a firearm having a magazine housing, the lock comprising:
a cover configured to be received in the magazine housing, the cover defining a longitudinal dimension;
a locking mechanism connected to the lower end of the cover, the locking mechanism having a locked condition and an unlocked condition;
a user interface connected to the locking mechanism, the user interface adapted to enable a user to select between the locked condition and the unlocked condition;
a rotating locking element configured to rotate about an axis that is aligned with the longitudinal dimension, the rotating locking element having a first end connected to the locking mechanism, the rotating locking element having an opposed second end having a rotating projection configured to at least partially rotate between the locked condition and the unlocked condition, the rotating projection adapted to move between a first position when the locking mechanism is in the locked condition in which at least one of firearm operation and lock extraction are prevented, and a second position when the locking mechanism is in the unlocked condition in which firearm operation and lock extraction are enabled.

40. The lock according to claim 39, wherein die cover being a tubular body defining an interior space, and wherein the rotating locking element is at least partially received within the interior space.

41. The lock according to claim 39 or 40, wherein the rotating projection is configured to project from the cover.

42. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 41, wherein the rotating projection is configured to rotate with rotation of the rotating locking element.

43. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 42, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to rotate the rotating locking element.

44. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 43, further comprising a base, the base configured to at least partially cover the locking mechanism.

45. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 44, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one motor gear coupled to a motor, the at least one motor gear configured to rotate the rotating locking element.

46. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 45, wherein the cover has opposed sidewalls, a front wall, and a rear wall, and wherein the rotating locking element is proximate to one of the opposed sidewalls and to the front wall.

47. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 45, wherein the cover has opposed sidewalls, a front wall, and a rear wall, and wherein the rotating locking clement is proximate to the rear wall.

48. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 47, wherein the cover has an exterior profile adapted to be received in the magazine housing, and wherein the rotating projection is within the exterior profile to enable extraction of the lock when in the unlocked condition and protrudes from the exterior profile to prevent extraction of the lock when in the locked condition.

49. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 48, further comprising a positioning switch configured to indicate when the lock is not fully inserted into the magazine housing.

50. The lock according to any one of claims claim 39 to 49, further comprising a lock indicator configured to indicate at least one of the locked condition and the unlocked condition.

51. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 50, wherein the locking mechanism comprises an electronic lock.

52. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 51, wherein the locking mechanism is connected to a user identification segment.

53. The lock according to claim 52, wherein the user identification segment is configured for biometric identification.

54. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 50, wherein the locking mechanism comprise; a mechanical lock configured to receive a physical key.

55. The lock according to claim 54, wherein the physical key comprises an electronic chip.

56. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 55, wherein the locking mechanism comprises an electronic lock and a mechanical lock.

57. The lock according to any one of claims 39 to 56, wherein the firearm includes a trigger element movable between a rest position and a discharge position, and wherein when the rotating locking element is in the locked condition the rotating locking element is adapted to contact the trigger element to prevent motion of the trigger element.