Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 13

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

FOR THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF WISCONSIN
______________________________________________________________________________

MCP IP, LLC,

Plaintiff,

v. Case No.: 3:22-CV-004

RAVIN CROSSBOWS, LLC

Defendant.
______________________________________________________________________________

FIRST AMENDED COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL

______________________________________________________________________________

Plaintiff MCP IP, LLC (“MCP”), for its Amended Complaint against defendant Ravin

Crossbows, LLC (“Ravin”), states and alleges as follows:

PARTIES

1. Plaintiff MCP is a limited liability company organized and existing under the laws

of the state of South Dakota, with a principal place of business location at 919 River Road, Sparta,

Wisconsin 54656.

2. Ravin is a Wisconsin limited liability company with its principal place of business

in Superior, Wisconsin. Ravin is in the business of designing, developing, manufacturing,

marketing, and selling crossbows and crossbow products for recreational, hunting, and archery-

related activities. As of December 17, 2021, Ravin’s sole member is Velocity Outdoor Inc., a

Delaware corporation with its principal place of business in New York.

JURISDICTION AND VENUE

3. This is an action for patent infringement arising out of at least Defendant’s

unauthorized manufacturing, offering for sale, and/or selling of crossbows and accessories in
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 13

violation of MCP’s patent rights. Because this action arises under the patent laws of the United

States, 35 U.S.C. § 271, et seq., this Court has subject matter jurisdiction pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §§

1331 and 1338(a).

4. This Court has personal jurisdiction over Ravin because Ravin is incorporated in

Wisconsin. Furthermore, upon information and belief, Ravin regularly transacts business in the

State of Wisconsin and has committed acts of infringement in this District by making, using,

offering for sale, and selling infringing products within this District. Ravin also has a physical

facility in this District at 3535 Tower Avenue, Superior, WI 54880.

5. Venue is proper in the Western District of Wisconsin pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §§ 1391

and 1400 because Ravin is incorporated under the laws of Wisconsin, has a facility in this District,

and therefore resides in this District. Further, Ravin has committed acts of infringement within this

District.

PATENTS-IN-SUIT

6. On March 31, 2015, the U.S Patent and Trademark Office duly and legally issued

U.S. Patent No. 8,991,375 (“the ‘375 Patent”), titled “Crossbow Cabling Arrangement.” A true

and accurate copy of the ’375 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 1. MCP is the assignee of the

’375 Patent.

7. On February 9, 2016, the U.S Patent and Trademark Office duly and legally issued

U.S. Patent No. 9,255,757 (“the ‘757 Patent”), titled “Crossbow Cabling Arrangement.” A true

and accurate copy of the ’757 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 2. MCP is the assignee of the

’757 Patent.

8. On October 25, 2016, the U.S Patent and Trademark Office duly and legally issued

U.S. Patent No. 9,476,665 (“the ‘665 Patent”), titled “Crossbow Cabling Arrangement.” A true

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and accurate copy of the ’665 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 3. MCP is the assignee of the

’665 Patent.

9. On November 22, 2016, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office duly and legally

issued U.S. Patent No. 9,500,433 (“the ‘433 Patent), titled “Crossbow with Variable Cable

Displacement.” A true and accurate copy of the ‘433 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 4. MCP

is the assignee of the ‘433 Patent.

10. On January 30, 2018, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office duly and legally issued

U.S. Patent No. 9,879,939 (“the ’939 Patent”), titled “Crossbow with Variable Cable

Displacement.” A true and accurate copy of the ’939 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 5. MCP

is the assignee of the ’939 Patent.

11. On June 23, 2020, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office duly and legally issued

U.S. Patent No. 10,690,435 (“the ’435 Patent”), titled “Bullpup Crossbow.” A true and accurate

copy of the ’435 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 6. MCP is the assignee of the ’435 Patent.

12. On November 19, 2019, the U.S Patent and Trademark Office duly and legally

issued U.S. Patent No. 10,480,893 (“the ‘893 Patent”), titled “Crossbow with Stock Overlap.” A

true and accurate copy of the ’893 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 7. MCP is the assignee of

the ’893 Patent.

13. On December 15, 2020, the U.S Patent and Trademark Office duly and legally

issued U.S. Patent No. 10,866,056 (“the ‘056 Patent”), titled “Crossbow with Stock Overlap.” A

true and accurate copy of the ’056 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 8. MCP is the assignee of

the ’056 Patent.

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14. On June 10, 2014, the U.S Patent and Trademark Office duly and legally issued

U.S. Patent No. 8,746,220 (“the ‘220 Patent”), titled “Archery Bow.” A true and accurate copy of

the ’220 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 9. MCP is the assignee of the ’220 Patent.

15. On November 26, 2019, the U.S Patent and Trademark Office duly and legally

issued U.S. Patent No. D868,195 (“the ‘195 Patent”), titled “Crossbow Rail.” A true and accurate

copy of the ’195 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 10. MCP is the assignee of the ’195 Patent.

16. MCP has complied with the requirements of 35 U.S.C. § 287 either because none

of the above patents are practiced by MCP or any licensee and/or because any licensee has marked

their product with the publicly available website: patents.missioncrossbows.com.

RAVIN’S INFRINGING CROSSBOWS

17. As the popularity of outdoor sports like hunting and target shooting has exploded,

the crossbow industry has adapted to this expansion by developing crossbows that increasingly

approximate the design of rifles. The industry has attempted this, in part, by increasing bolt speed

to improve accuracy by minimizing drop. In addition, narrow-width crossbows with high bolt

speeds have more of a rifle feel to the user. Such operating conditions allow users to take advantage

of expanded hunting seasons in numerous states while using a crossbow that feels like a rifle

outside of the rifle hunting season.

18. Ravin is a manufacturer and seller of numerous crossbow models. All Ravin

crossbows include a stock, a prod, limbs, rotatable cams, cables, and a bowstring. Ravin’s flagship

products are the R500 and R500E crossbows. The R500 and R500E are narrow width crossbows

that utilize MCP’s technology to enable bolt speeds of approximately 500 feet per second while

maintaining an axle-to-axle width of 7.6” in the brace (uncocked) orientation and 3.6” in the drawn

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(cocked) orientation. https://ravincrossbows.com/products/ravin-r500e (last visited December 27,

2021).

19. The R500 and R500E utilize two

movable cable positioners to bias the cables in

different directions relative to the shooting axis of

the crossbow in both the brace and drawn

orientation.

20. In the R500 and R500E, the cable positioners move, while the crossbow is drawn,

along a path defined by an aperture in the stock. At least a portion of the travel path is not parallel

to the shooting axis of the crossbow.

21. The R500 and R500E achieve their

narrow width by configuring the stock with a

recessed area that receives the rotatable cams into the

stock when the crossbow is in a drawn orientation.

22. Ravin’s R500 and R500E include two

rotatable cams that move in reference to the crossbow

prod or riser as well as each other. Throughout the draw from a brace (undrawn) orientation to

drawn (cocked) orientation, the rotatable cams move closer to the prod or riser.

23. Ravin’s R500, R500E, R26, R29, and R29X products are all configured with a

bowstring latch that holds the bowstring when the crossbow is drawn. The latch is

5
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 6 of 13

behind the trigger assembly and in an open area defined by the stock and an extension member.

The crossbows also include a cheek rest that is shaped differently and at a lower height than a

picatinny rail. This configuration provides the crossbow user with more of a bullpup rifle “feel.”

24. Ravin’s R500, R500E, and R18 products also utilize a triangle shaped rail covered

by MCP design patent D868,195.

Ravin R500/R500E D868,195

Ravin R18

25. The Ravin R500, R500E, R26, R29, R29X, and R18 infringe one or more claims

of patents in MCP’s utility and design patent portfolio.

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 7 of 13

Count I: Infringement of the ‘375 Patent

26. The allegations of paragraphs 1-24 are incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

27. Ravin infringes, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more

claims of the ‘375 Patent by making, using, importing into the U.S., offering to sell, and/or selling

at least the R500 and R500E crossbows. Ravin’s infringement is in violation of 35 U.S.C. §271(a).

A chart illustrating the infringement of the ‘375 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 11.

28. On information and belief, Ravin will continue to infringe the ‘375 Patent unless

and until Ravin is enjoined by this Court.

29. Ravin’s acts of infringement have caused and continue to cause damage to MCP,

and MCP is entitled to recover from Ravin the damages sustained by MCP in an amount to be

determined at trial.

Count II: Infringement of the ‘757 Patent

30. The allegations of paragraphs 1-29 are incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

31. Ravin infringes, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more

claims of the ‘757 Patent by making, using, importing into the U.S., offering to sell, and/or selling

at least the R500 and R500E crossbows. Ravin’s infringement is in violation of 35 U.S.C. §271(a).

A chart illustrating the infringement of the ‘757 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 12.

32. On information and belief, Ravin will continue to infringe the ‘757 Patent unless

and until Ravin is enjoined by this Court.

33. Ravin’s acts of infringement have caused and continue to cause damage to MCP,

and MCP is entitled to recover from Ravin the damages sustained by MCP in an amount to be

determined at trial.

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 8 of 13

Count III: Infringement of the ‘665 Patent

34. The allegations of paragraphs 1-33 are incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

35. Ravin infringes, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more

claims of the ‘665 Patent by making, using, importing into the U.S., offering to sell, and/or selling

at least the R500 and R500E crossbows. Ravin’s infringement is in violation of 35 U.S.C. §271(a).

A chart illustrating the infringement of the ‘665 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 13.

36. On information and belief, Ravin will continue to infringe the ‘665 Patent unless

and until Ravin is enjoined by this Court.

37. Ravin’s acts of infringement have caused and continue to cause damage to MCP,

and MCP is entitled to recover from Ravin the damages sustained by MCP in an amount to be

determined at trial.

Count IV: Infringement of the ‘433 Patent

38. The allegations of paragraphs 1-37 are incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

39. Ravin infringes, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more

claims of the ‘433 Patent by making, using, importing into the U.S., offering to sell, and/or selling

at least the R500 and R500E crossbows. Ravin’s infringement is in violation of 35 U.S.C. §271(a).

A chart illustrating the infringement of the ‘433 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 14.

40. On information and belief, Ravin will continue to infringe the ‘433 Patent unless

and until Ravin is enjoined by this Court.

41. Ravin’s acts of infringement have caused and continue to cause damage to MCP,

and MCP is entitled to recover from Ravin the damages sustained by MCP in an amount to be

determined at trial.

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 9 of 13

Count V: Infringement of the ‘939 Patent

42. The allegations of paragraphs 1-41 are incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

43. Ravin infringes, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more

claims of the ‘939 Patent by making, using, importing into the U.S., offering to sell, and/or selling

at least the R500 and R500E crossbows. Ravin’s infringement is in violation of 35 U.S.C. §271(a).

A chart illustrating the infringement of the ‘939 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 15.

44. On information and belief, Ravin will continue to infringe the ‘939 Patent unless

and until Ravin is enjoined by this Court.

45. Ravin’s acts of infringement have caused and continue to cause damage to MCP,

and MCP is entitled to recover from Ravin the damages sustained by MCP in an amount to be

determined at trial.

Count VI: Infringement of the ‘435 Patent

46. The allegations of paragraphs 1-45 are incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

47. Ravin infringes, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more

claims of the ‘435 Patent by making, using, importing into the U.S., offering to sell, and/or selling

at least the R500, R500E, R26, R29, and R29X crossbows. Ravin’s infringement is in violation of

35 U.S.C. §271(a), §271(b), and/or §271(c). A chart illustrating the infringement of the ‘435 Patent

is attached hereto as Exhibit 16.

48. On information and belief, Ravin will continue to infringe the ‘435 Patent unless

and until Ravin is enjoined by this Court.

49. Ravin’s acts of infringement have caused and continue to cause damage to MCP,

and MCP is entitled to recover from Ravin the damages sustained by MCP in an amount to be

determined at trial.

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Count VII: Infringement of the ‘893 Patent

50. The allegations of paragraphs 1-49 are incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

51. Ravin infringes, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more

claims of the ‘893 Patent by making, using, importing into the U.S., offering to sell, and/or selling

at least the R500 and R500E crossbows. Ravin’s infringement is in violation of 35 U.S.C. §271(a).

A chart illustrating the infringement of the ‘893 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 17.

52. On information and belief, Ravin will continue to infringe the ‘893 Patent unless

and until Ravin is enjoined by this Court.

53. Ravin’s acts of infringement have caused and continue to cause damage to MCP,

and MCP is entitled to recover from Ravin the damages sustained by MCP in an amount to be

determined at trial.

Count VIII: Infringement of the ‘056 Patent

54. The allegations of paragraphs 1-53 are incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

55. Ravin infringes, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more

claims of the ‘056 Patent by making, using, importing into the U.S., offering to sell, and/or selling

at least the R500 and R500E crossbows. Ravin’s infringement is in violation of 35 U.S.C. §271(a).

A chart illustrating the infringement of the ‘056 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 18.

56. On information and belief, Ravin will continue to infringe the ‘056 Patent unless

and until Ravin is enjoined by this Court.

57. Ravin’s acts of infringement have caused and continue to cause damage to MCP,

and MCP is entitled to recover from Ravin the damages sustained by MCP in an amount to be

determined at trial.

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 11 of 13

Count IX: Infringement of the ‘220 Patent

58. The allegations of paragraphs 1-57 are incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

59. Ravin infringes, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more

claims of the ‘220 Patent by making, using, importing into the U.S., offering to sell, and/or selling

at least the R500 and R500E crossbows. Ravin’s infringement is in violation of 35 U.S.C. §271(a).

A chart illustrating the infringement of the ‘220 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit 19.

60. On information and belief, Ravin will continue to infringe the ‘220 Patent unless

and until Ravin is enjoined by this Court.

61. Ravin’s acts of infringement have caused and continue to cause damage to MCP,

and MCP is entitled to recover from Ravin the damages sustained by MCP in an amount to be

determined at trial.

Count X: Infringement of the ‘195 Patent

62. The allegations of paragraphs 1-61 are incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

63. Ravin infringes, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more

claims of the ‘195 Patent by making, using, importing into the U.S., offering to sell, and/or selling

at least the R500, R500E, and R18 crossbows. Ravin’s infringement is in violation of 35 U.S.C.

§271(a) and/or §289.

64. On information and belief, Ravin will continue to infringe the ‘195 Patent unless

and until Ravin is enjoined by this Court.

65. Ravin’s acts of infringement have caused and continue to cause damage to MCP,

and MCP is entitled to recover from Ravin the damages sustained by MCP in an amount to be

determined at trial.

11
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 12 of 13

PRAYER FOR RELIEF

WHEREFORE, MCP respectfully requests that this Court enter judgment in its favor and

against Ravin, as follows:

A. To enter judgment that Ravin has infringed the ‘375, ‘757, ‘665, ‘433, ‘939, ‘435,

‘893, ‘056, ‘220, and ‘195 Patents in violation of 35 U.S.C. §271 and/or §289;

B. To enter orders preliminarily and permanently enjoining Ravin and its officers,

agents, directors, servants, employees, attorneys, representatives, parents, subsidiaries, affiliates,

and all of those in active concert, privity or participation with them and their successors and

assigns, from infringing the ‘375, ‘757, ‘665, ‘433, ‘939, ‘435, ‘893, ‘056, ‘220, and ‘195 Patents;

C. Enter judgment that Ravin’s acts of infringement have been willful and deliberate;

D. To award MCP its damages in an amount adequate to compensate MCP for Ravin’s

infringement of the ‘375, ‘757, ‘665, ‘433, ‘939, ‘435, ‘893, ‘056, ‘220, and ‘195 Patents consistent

with 35 U.S.C. § 284 and/or §289, up to and including treble the amount of actual damages

assessed, together with costs, and prejudgment and post-judgment interest;

E. To declare this case to be “exceptional” under 35 U.S.C. § 285 and to award MCP

its attorneys’ fees, expenses, and costs incurred in this action; and

F. To award MCP such other and further relief as this Court deems just and proper.

DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL

Pursuant to Rule 38(b) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, MCP respectfully requests

a trial by jury of any and all issues on which a trial by jury is available under applicable law.

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 13 of 13

Dated: January 28, 2022 Respectfully submitted,

HANSEN REYNOLDS LLC

By: /s/ Jessica C. Mederson

Jessica C. Mederson, SBN 1087910
Danielle M. Nardick, SBN 1097696
10 E. Doty St., Suite 800
Madison, WI 53703
Phone: (608) 841-1351
Facsimile: (414) 273-8476
jmederson@hansenreynolds.com
dnardick@hansenreynolds.com

Nicholas S. Boebel (admission forthcoming)

Michael D. Okerlund (admission forthcoming)
Hansen Reynolds LLC
225 South Sixth Street, Suite 3900
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Phone: (206) 268-9320
Facsimile: (414) 273-8476
nboebel@hansenreynolds.com
mokerlund@hansenreynolds.com

Attorneys for Plaintiff MCP IP, LLC

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Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-1 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 18

EXHIBIT 1
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-1 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 18
I 1111111111111111 11111 1111111111 11111 1111111111 1111111111 111111111111111111
US008991375B2

c12) United States Patent (IO) Patent No.: US 8,991,375 B2

McPherson (45) Date of Patent: Mar.31,2015

(54) CROSSBOW CABLING ARRANGEMENT 4,587,944 A 5/1986 Barnett

4,649,891 A * 3/1987 Bozek . 124/25
(71) Applicant: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 4,693,228 A * 9/1987 Simonds et al. 124/25
4,722,318 A * 2/1988 Yankey . 124/25
H000486 H 7/1988 Savioli
(72) Inventor: Mathew A. McPherson, Norwalk, WI 4,766,874 A * 8/1988 Nishioka. 124/25
(US) 4,860,719 A * 8/1989 Scheiterlein . 124/25
4,879,987 A * 11/1989 Nishioka. 124/25
(73) Assignee: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 4,917,071 A * 4/1990 Bozek . 124/25
5,119,797 A * 6/1992 Anderson 124/25
5,630,405 A * 5/1997 Nizov 124/25
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term ofthis 5,678,528 A * 10/1997 Hadley . 124/25
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 5,823,172 A * 10/1998 Suggitt 124/25
U.S.C. 154(b) by 3 days. 6,267,108 Bl* 7/2001 McPherson et al. 124/25
6,560,911 B2 5/2003 Sharp
(21) Appl. No.: 13/835,783 6,651,641 Bl* 11/2003 Bower et al. 124/25
6,715,481 Bl * 4/2004 Anderson 124/88
6,990,970 Bl * 1/2006 Darlington . 124/25.6
(22) Filed: Mar. 15, 2013 7,174,884 B2 * 2/2007 Kempf et al. 124/25
7,328,693 B2 * 2/2008 Kempf. 124/25
(65) Prior Publication Data 7,363,921 B2 * 4/2008 Kempf. 124/25
7,441,555 Bl* 10/2008 Larson . 124/25.6
US 2014/0261357 Al Sep. 18, 2014 7,708,001 B2 5/2010 Kempf
7,823,572 B2 * 11/2010 Anderson 124/25
(51) Int. Cl. 7,832,386 B2 * 11/2010 Bednar et al. 124/25
F41B 5112 (2006.01) 7,836,871 B2 * 11/2010 Kempf. 124/25
F41B 5114 (2006.01) 7,891,348 B2 * 2/2011 Colley 124/25
(52) U.S. Cl. (Continued)
CPC . F41B 51123 (2013.01); F41B 5114 (2013.01); Primary Examiner - Melba Bumgarner
F41B 5112 (2013.01)
Assistant Examiner - Alexander Niconovich
USPC ............. 124/25; 124/24.1; 124/25.6; 124/86;
124/88 (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm - Vidas, Arrett & Steinkraus
( 58) Field of Classification Search
(57) ABSTRACT
CPC ............... F41B 5/123; F41B 5/12; F41B 5/14
USPC .............................. 124/24.1, 25, 25.6, 86, 88 In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock, a
See application file for complete search history. first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a second
rotatable member. A bowstring, a first cable and a second
(56) References Cited cable each extend between the first rotatable member and the
second rotatable member. The crossbow defines a shooting
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS axis. The first cable is offset from the shooting axis in a first
direction and the second cable is offset from the shooting axis
577,641 A 2/ 1897 Bruder
2,500,509 A * 3/1950 Bailey . 124/25 in a second direction different from the first direction.
2,609,810 A 9/1952 Gruner
0283,637 S 4/1986 Williams 20 Claims, 10 Drawing Sheets
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-1 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 18

US 8,991,375 B2
Page 2

(56) References Cited 2008/0168969 Al 7/2008 Kempf

2009/0101126 Al* 4/2009 Anderson 124/25
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 2009/0194086 Al 8/2009 Kempf
2010/0116259 Al* 5/2010 Popov et al. 124/25
7,930,849 B2 4/2011 Abraham et al. 2010/0170488 Al * 7/2010 Rasor et al. 124/25
7,938,108 B2 * 5/2011 Popov et al. 124/25 2010/0186728 Al 7/2010 Bednar et al.
8,225,777 B2 * 7/2012 Chu 124/25 2010/0206284 Al * 8/2010 Popov et al. 124/88
8,387,603 B2 * 3/2013 Darlington . 124/25.6 2010/0269807 Al 10/2010 Kempf
8,522,762 B2 * 9/2013 Trpkovski . 124/25.6 2011/0016764 Al 1/2011 Cales
8,567,376 B2 * 10/2013 Flint 124/20.3 2011/0030666 Al * 2/2011 Darlington . 124/25
8,627,811 Bl* 1/2014 Darlington . 124/25 2011/0041820 Al * 2/2011 Stanziale 124/25
8,651,095 B2 * 2/2014 Islas . 124/25 2011/0203561 Al 8/2011 Shaffer et al.
8,656,899 B2 * 2/2014 Bednar et al. 124/25 2011/0232619 Al 9/2011 Bednar et al.
8,671,923 B2 * 3/2014 Goff et al. 124/25 2011/0308508 Al * 12/2011 Islas . 124/25
8,701,642 B2 * 4/2014 Biafore et al. 2012/0006311 Al* 1/2012 Bednar et al. 124/25
124/25
2012/0125302 Al* 5/2012 Stanziale 124/25
2002/0020403 Al 2/2002 Troubridge 2012/0298087 Al* 11/2012 Trpkovski . 124/25
2005/0279338 Al* 12/2005 Dziekan . 124/25 2014/0069402 Al * 3/2014 McPherson . 124/25
2007/0101631 Al 5/2007 Bentley
2007/0289190 Al 12/2007 Oz * cited by examiner
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-1 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 18

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-1 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 13 of 18

U.S. Patent Mar.31,2015 Sheet 10 of 10 US 8,991,375 B2

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-1 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 14 of 18
US 8,991,375 B2
1 2
CROSSBOW CABLING ARRANGEMENT
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to crossbows and more 5
particularly to a cabling arrangement that provides for more
balanced forces.
Crossbows are generally known in the art. Crossbows typi-
cally include a bow assembly portion mounted on a stock
portion, which typically includes a string latch and trigger 10
assembly for holding a drawn crossbow string and selectively
releasing it.
When a bow portion comprises a compound bow, often
multiple cables are held away from the shooting axis by a
portion of the stock. There remains a need for cabling 15
arrangements that provide for a more balanced crossbow
system.
All U.S. patents and applications and all other published
documents mentioned anywhere in this application are incor-
porated herein by reference in their entirety.
Without limiting the scope of the invention a brief sum-
mary of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention is
set forth below.Additional details of the summarized embodi-
ments of the invention and/or additional embodiments of the
invention may be found in the Detailed Description of the 25
Invention below.
A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specifi-
cation is provided as well only for the purposes of complying
with 37 C.F.R. 1. 72. The abstract is not intended to be used for
interpreting the scope of the claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock,
a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a
second rotatable member. A bowstring and a first cable each
extend between the first rotatable member and the second
rotatable member. The crossbow defines a shooting axis, and
the stock extends below the shooting axis. The first cable is
positioned above the shooting axis. In some embodiments, a
crossbow comprises a cable positioner arranged to position
the first cable. In some embodiments, the cable positioner
comprises a roller.
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock,
a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a
second rotatable member. A bowstring, a first cable and a
second cable each extend between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member. The crossbow defines a
shooting axis. The first cable is offset from the shooting axis
in a first direction and the second cable is offset from the
shooting axis in a second direction different from the first
direction.
In some embodiments, the first cable is positioned above
the shooting axis and the second cable is positioned below the
shooting axis.
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock, a first
limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a second
rotatable member. A bowstring, a first cable and a second
cable each extend between the first rotatable member and the
second rotatable member. The crossbow defines a shooting
axis. A cable guard comprises a first cable positioner and a
second cable positioner. The first cable positioner is arranged
to hold the first cable above the shooting axis, and the second
cable positioner is arranged to hold the second cable below
the shooting axis.
These and other embodiments which characterize the
invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims
annexed hereto and forming a part hereof However, for a
better understanding of the invention, its advantages and
objectives obtained by its use, reference can be made to the
drawings which form a further part hereof and the accompa-
nying descriptive matter, in which there are illustrated and
described various embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A detailed description of the invention is hereafter
described with specific reference being made to the drawings.
FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a crossbow in a brace
orientation.
FIG. 2 shows a portion of a crossbow in greater detail.
FIG. 3 shows the crossbow ofFIG.1 ina drawn orientation.
FIG. 4 shows a top view of an embodiment of a crossbow
in a brace orientation.
FIG. 5 shows a top view of the crossbow of FIG. 4 in a
drawn orientation.
20 FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of a crossbow.
FIG. 7 shows another view of the cable positioning mem-
bers shown in FIG. 6.
FIG. 8 shows a top view of the cable positioning members
of FIGS. 6 and 7.
FIG. 9 shows the crossbow of FIG. 6 ina drawn orientation.
FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of a crossbow in a
brace orientation.
FIG. 11 shows the crossbow of FIG. 10 in a drawn orien-
tation.
30
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
While this invention may be embodied in many different
forms, there are described in detail herein specific embodi-
35 ments of the invention. This description is an exemplification
of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit
the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated.
For the purposes of this disclosure, like reference numerals
in the figures shall refer to like features unless otherwise
40 indicated.
FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a crossbow 10 in an
undrawn or brace condition. In some embodiments, a cross-
bow 10 comprises a compound bow portion 20 and a stock
portion 40. The bow portion 20 comprises limbs 12, rotatable
45 members 14 and a bowstring 16. The bow portion 20 further
comprises a first cable 18 and a second cable 19 that extend
between the rotatable members 14. As the crossbow 10 is
drawn, the limbs 12 flex and change shape, resulting in move-
ment of the cables 18, 19.
50 In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises a dual
cam bow wherein both rotatable members 14 comprise cams,
and cables 18, 19 each comprise a power cable. In some
embodiments, the rotatable members 14 and cables 20 are
mirrored across a shooting axis 34, desirably providing a
55 system that is substantially laterally balanced.
An arrow or bolt 80 desirably travels along the shooting
axis 34 when launched. In some embodiments, the stock 40
extends below said shooting axis 34.
Desirably, the cables 18, 19 are held away from the shoot-
60 ing axis 34, which allows clearance for a bolt 80. Desirably,
the first cable 18 is positioned away from the shooting axis 34
in a first direction, and the second cable is positioned away
from the shooting axis 34 in a second direction that is differ-
ent from the first direction. In some embodiments, the first
65 direction is opposite the second direction. In some embodi-
ments, the first cable 18 is positioned above the shooting axis
34 and the second cable is positioned below the shooting axis
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-1 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 15 of 18
US 8,991,375 B2
3 4
34. This arrangement helps to balance forces in the crossbow
10, for example reducing rotatable member 14 lean when
compared to a crossbow that routes multiple cables on a
common side of the shooting axis 34.
In some embodiments, the crossbow 10 comprises a first
cable positioner 48 arranged to position the first cable 18. In
some embodiments, the crossbow 10 comprises a second
cable positioner 50 arranged to position the second cable 19.
FIG. 2 shows embodiments of a first cable positioner 48
and a second cable positioner 50 in greater detail.
In some embodiments, the first cable positioner 48 com-
prises a body 24 that is arranged to position the first cable 18
away from the shooting axis 34. As shown in FIG. 2, the body
24 is attached to the stock 40. In some embodiments, the body
24 can be formed integrally with the stock. In some embodi-
ments, the body 24 comprises opposed sidewalls 26 and a top
25. In some embodiments, the body defines a tunnel through
which a bolt 80 passes during launch. Desirably, the tunnel is
sized to accommodate vanes or fletching of the bolt 80.
In some embodiments, the first cable positioner 48 com-
prises a recess or channel 49, and the first cable 18 is posi-
tioned in the channel 49. In some embodiments, the channel
49 is formed in the body 24. A channel 49 can have any
suitable orientation and is desirably oriented to match the first
cable 18. For example, the first cable 18 will generally cross
the shooting axis 34 at a non-zero angle (e.g. when viewed
from above). In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the
channel 49 is oriented at an angle to the shooting axis 34,
similar to an angle of the first cable 18. It should be noted that
the crossing angle of the first cable 18 can be different in the
brace and drawn conditions. In some embodiments, a longi-
tudinal axis of the channel 49 is oriented to match the crossing
angle of the first cable 18 in the brace condition. In some
embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the channel 49 is oriented
to match the crossing angle of the first cable 18 in the drawn
condition. In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the
channel 49 is oriented to match an average crossing angle of
the first cable 18 in the brace and drawn conditions. In some
embodiments, a width of the channel 49 increases at the ends
to allow for a change in the crossing angle of the first cable 18.
In some embodiments, a depth of the channel 49 increases
at the ends of the channel 49. In some embodiments, a surface
of the channel 49 that contacts the first cable 18 (e.g. a bottom
surface as shown in FIG. 2) is curved, which helps to distrib-
ute the lateral forces applied between the first cable 18 and the
channel 49.
In some embodiments, the first cable positioner 48 com-
prises a guide member 36 arranged to guide and/or be moved
by the first cable 18. In some embodiments, the guide member
36 comprises the channel 49. Desirably, the guide member 36
is moveable with respect to the body 24. In some embodi-
ments, the guide member 36 is arranged to traverse along a
linear axis 37 with respect to the body 24. In some embodi-
ments, the axis 37 is parallel to the shooting axis 34. In some
embodiments, the axis 37 is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis
of the channel 49. In some embodiments, the body 24 and the
guide member 36 comprise complimentary engagement fea-
tures that prevent movement in at least one direction. In some
embodiments, a guide member 36 comprises one or more
flange portions 54 arranged to abut a portion of the body 24.
In some embodiments, a flange portion 54 is provided on each
side of the guide member 36, and the flanges 54 straddle the
body 24. As shown in FIG. 2, the body 24 comprises a ridge
28 and the guide member 36 comprises a groove 38 that
receives the ridge 28. The guide member 36 can traverse
along the ridge 28 with respect to the body 24. In some
embodiments, forces applied to the guide member 36 by the
first cable 18 hold the guide member 36 against the body 24.
In some embodiments, the complimentary engagement
features of the guide member 36 and the body 24 prevent
5 movement in at least two orthogonal directions. For example,
in some embodiments (not shown), a ridge 28 comprises a
T-shaped cross-section, and the groove 38 comprises a com-
plimentary T-shape.
In some embodiments, a second cable positioner 50 com-
10 prises a body 30 that is arranged to position the second cable
19 away from the shooting axis 34. As shown in FIG. 2, the
body 30 comprises a portion of the stock 40. In some embodi-
ments, the body 30 comprises a slot or aperture 42 in the body
30. Thus, in some embodiments, the second cable 19 passes
15 through an aperture 42 in the stock 40, and the stock 40/body
30 holds the second cable 19 away from the shooting axis 34.
Desirably, the aperture 42 is of a suitable size to allow for the
movement of the second cable 19.
In some embodiments, the body 30 can comprise a separate
20 member that is attached to the stock 40.
In some embodiments, the second cable positioner 48 com-
prises a recess or channel 51, and the second cable 19 is
positioned in the channel 51. In some embodiments, the chan-
nel 51 is formed in the body 30. A channel 51 can have any
25 suitable orientation and is desirably oriented to match the
second cable 19. For example, the second cable 19 will gen-
erally cross the shooting axis 34 at a non-zero angle (e.g.
when viewed from above). In some embodiments, a longitu-
dinal axis of the channel 51 is oriented at an angle to the
30 shooting axis 34, similar to an angle of the second cable 19.
In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the channel 51
is oriented to match the crossing angle of the second cable 19
in the brace condition. In some embodiments, a longitudinal
axis of the channel 51 is oriented to match the crossing angle
35 of the second cable 19 in the drawn condition. In some
embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the channel 51 is oriented
to match an average crossing angle of the second cable 19 in
the brace and drawn conditions. In some embodiments, a
width of the channel 59 increases at the ends to allow for a
40 change in the crossing angle of the second cable 19.
In some embodiments, a depth of the channel 51 increases
at the ends of the channel 51. In some embodiments, a surface
of the channel 51 that contacts the second cable 19 (e.g. a top
surface as shown in FIG. 2) is curved, which helps to distrib-
45 ute the lateral forces applied between the second cable 19 and
the channel 51.
In some embodiments, the second cable positioner 50 com-
prises a guide member 56 arranged to guide and/or be moved
by the second cable 19. In some embodiments, the guide
50 member 56 comprises the channel 51. Desirably, the guide
member 56 is moveable with respect to the body 30. In some
embodiments, the guide member 56 is arranged to slide
within a slot or aperture 42 in the body 30. In some embodi-
ments, the guide member 56 is arranged to traverse along a
55 linear axis (not illustrated) with respect to the body 30. In
some embodiments, the linear axis is parallel to the shooting
axis 34. In some embodiments, the linear axis is orthogonal to
a longitudinal axis of the channel 51. In some embodiments,
the body 30 and the guide member 56 comprise complimen-
60 tary engagement features that prevent movement in one or
more orthogonal directions. For example, the body 30 can
comprise a ridge and the guide member 56 can comprise a
groove that receives the ridge. The guide member 56 can
traverse along the ridge with respect to the body 30. In some
65 embodiments, forces applied to the guide member 56 by the
second cable 19 hold the guide member 56 against the body
30. In some embodiments, upper and lower surfaces of the
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US 8,991,375 B2
5 6
body 30 (e.g. inner surfaces of the slot or aperture 42) are
positioned to sandwich the guide member 56.
In some embodiments, a first channel 49 is oriented at a
predetermined angle to the shooting axis 34, and a second
channel 51 is oriented at an equal but opposite angle to the
shooting axis 34.
In some embodiments, a first guide member 36 is similar in
size and shape to a second guide member 56, but the two
guide members 36, 56 have different orientations. In some
embodiments, a first guide member 36 is flipped 180 degrees
with respect to a second guide member 56.
Cable positioners 48, 50 can be made from any suitable
material, such as materials traditionally used in cable posi-
tioners or cable guards in compound bows. In some embodi-
ments, at least a portion of a cable positioner 48, 50 comprises
metal. In some embodiments, at least a portion of a cable
positioner 48, 50 comprises a polymer. Guide members 36, 56
can be formed of any suitable material. In some embodi-
ments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises a polymer. In some
embodiments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises a thermo-
plastic or a thermo set polymer. In some embodiments, a guide
member 36, 56 comprises a lubricious polymer. In some
embodiments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises a low fric-
tion material such as polyoxymethylene (POM) and/or poly-
tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In some embodiments, a guide
member 36, 56 comprises Delrin® acetal resin or Delrin® AF
acetal resin available from E. I. du Pont de Nemours and
Company.
FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a crossbow 10 in a drawn
condition. In general, a latch 11 will hold the bowstring 16
and retain the crossbow 10 in a drawn condition. Actuation of
a trigger 13 will release the bowstring 16.
In some embodiments, drawing the bowstring 16 causes
the rotatable members to rotate, wherein at least one of the
first or second cable 18, 19 will be taken up on a cam track 15.
The cable 18, 19 take-up causes the limbs 12 to flex, storing
energy.
During a draw cycle, one or more ends of each cable 18, 19
can change position. In some embodiments, the first and
second cable positioners 48, 50 change their shape and/or
positioning to accommodate movement of the cables 18, 19.
For example, in some embodiments, guide members 36, 56
can be moved by the cables 18, 19.
FIGS. 4 and 5 show top views of an embodiment of a
crossbow 10. FIG. 4 shows a brace condition and FIG. 5
shows a drawn condition.
FIG. 6 shows an embodiment ofa crossbow 10 comprising
an embodiment of a first cable positioner 48 and an embodi-
ment of a second cable positioner 50. FIGS. 7 and 8 show the
embodiment of FIG. 6 in greater detail.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a cable
guard 70 that comprises a first cable positioner 48 and a
second cable positioner 50. In some embodiments, a cable
guard 70 comprises a body 72 that is attachable to the cross-
bow 10.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a first
cable guard 70a comprising a first cable positioner 48a and a
second cable positioner 50a, and a second cable guard 70b
comprising a first cable positioner 48b and a second cable
positioner 50b. In some embodiments, the first cable guard
70a and the second cable guard 70b are attached to opposing
portions of the stock 40 (e.g. opposing sides). In some
embodiments, the structure of a second cable guard 70b com-
prises a mirror image of the structure of a first cable guard 70a
taken across the shooting axis 34 (e.g. top view), although
when the crossbow 10 is strung, the various cable positioners
48a, 48b, 50a, 50b may assume non-mirror image positions
due to the locations of the cables 18, 19.
In some embodiments, a first and/or second cable posi-
tioner 48, 50 comprises a body 24, 30 comprising a shaft 60,
5 61. In some embodiments, a first and/or second cable posi-
tioner 48, 50 comprises a roller 62, 63. Desirably, a roller 62,
63 is arranged to rotate with respect to the body 24, 30, for
example rotating as a cable 18, 19 in contact with the roller 62,
63 moves (e.g. causing the rotation). In some embodiments, a
10 roller 62, 63 comprises a sheave having a circumferential
track for receiving a cable 18, 19.
In some embodiments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises a
roller 62, 63, and the roller 62, 63 is arranged to traverse with
respect to the body 24, 30. In some embodiments, roller 62, 63
15 moves with respect to the body 24, 30 along an axis 37. In
some embodiments, the axis 37 comprises a central axis of a
shaft 60, 61. Thus, in some embodiments, a roller 62, 63 is
arranged to rotate about axis 37 and traverse along axis 37.
A shaft 60, 61 can be made from any suitable material. In
20 some embodiments, a shaft 60, 61 comprises metal. In some
embodiments, a shaft 60, 61 comprises carbon.
A roller 62, 63 can be made from any suitable material. In
some embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises metal. In some
embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises carbon. In some
25 embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises a polymer. In some
embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises a lubricious polymer.
In some embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises a low friction
material such as PTFE. In some embodiments, a roller 62, 63
comprises a first material arranged to contact a cable 18, 19
30 and a second material arranged to contact the body 24, 30 of
the cable positioner 38, 50. For example, a roller 62, 63 can
comprise a body formed mainly of the first material, and a
sleeve or bearing made from a second material. The first
material can be selected for good strength and abrasion resis-
35 tance characteristics, and the second material can be selected
to provide high lubricity and/or low friction.
FIG. 9 shows the crossbow 10 of FIG. 6 in a drawn orien-
tation. As the crossbow 10 is drawn, one or more ends of each
cable 18, 19 can change position. In some embodiments, the
40 cables 18, 19 cause rollers 62, 63 to rotate as the crossbow 10
is drawn. In some embodiments, the cables 18, 19 cause
rollers 62, 63 to move with respect to the cable positioner
body 24, 30 as the crossbow 10 is drawn.
FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of a crossbow 10 in a
45 brace condition, and FIG. 11 shows the crossbow 10 in a
drawn condition.
The crossbow 10 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 has rotatable
members 14 that are different from, for example, the rotatable
members 14 shown in FIG. 1.
50 In some embodiments, a cable 18, 19 comprises an end
portion 68 that is arranged to feed out from the rotatable
member 14 during at least a portion of a draw cycle. In some
embodiments, an end portion 68 is arranged to unspool from
the rotatable member 14 during at least a portion of a draw
55 cycle. In some embodiments, an end portion 68 wraps around
at least a portion of a spool member 74 in the brace condition.
In some embodiments, the end portion 68 does not contact the
spool member 74 in the drawn condition.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises
60 another suitable compound bow configuration, such as a
single-cam, 1.5/hybrid/CPS cam, binary cam or any other
suitable configuration. In some embodiments, either the first
cable 18 or the second cable 19 comprises a control cable or
secondary feed out cable.
65 In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises
cables 18, 19 and rotatable members 14 as described in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,990,970.
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US 8,991,375 B2
7 8
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises one or
more force vectoring cable anchors, for example as described
in U.S. Pat. No. 8,020,544.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises one or
more limb retaining assemblies, for example as described in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/916,261.
U.S. Patent Application Nos. 61/699,271, 61/699,244,
61/699,197, 61/699,248 and Ser. No. 12/916,261 are hereby
incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,990,970 and 8,020,544 are hereby incorporated herein
by reference in their entireties.
The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not
exhaustive. This description will suggest many variations and
alternatives to one ofordinary skill in this fieldofart.All these
alternatives and variations are intended to be included within
the scope of the claims where the term "comprising" means
"including, but not limited to." Those familiar with the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiments
described herein which equivalents are also intended to be
encompassed by the claims.
Further, the particular features presented in the dependent
claims can be combined with each other in other mamiers
within the scope of the invention such that the invention
should be recognized as also specifically directed to other
embodiments having any other possible combination of the
features of the dependent claims. For instance, for purposes of
claim publication, any dependent claim which follows should
be taken as alternatively written in a multiple dependent form
from all prior claims which possess all antecedents refer-
enced in such dependent claim if such multiple dependent
format is an accepted format within the jurisdiction (e.g. each
claim depending directly from claim 1 should be alternatively
taken as depending from all previous claims). In jurisdictions
where multiple dependent claim formats are restricted, the
following dependent claims should each be also taken as
alternatively written in each singly dependent claim format
which creates a dependency from a prior antecedent-possess-
ing claim other than the specific claim listed in such depen-
dent claim below.
This completes the description of the preferred and alter-
nate embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiment
described herein which equivalents are intended to be encom-
passed by the claims attached hereto.
The invention claimed is:
1. A crossbow comprising:
a stock, a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb
and a second rotatable member;
a bowstring extending between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member;
a first cable extending between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member and a second cable
extending between the first rotatable member and the
second rotatable member;
a first cable positioner attached to said stock;
wherein the crossbow defines a shooting axis, the first
cable is offset from the shooting axis in a first direction
and the second cable is offset from the shooting axis in a
second direction different from the first direction, said
first cable positioner biasing the first cable away from
said stock, at least a portion of said first cable positioner
moveable with respect to said stock.
2. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the first cable is
positioned above the shooting axis and the second cable is
positioned below the shooting axis.
3. The crossbow of claim 1, said first cable positioner
comprising a channel, said first cable positioned in said chan-
nel.
4. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein said first cable posi-
5 tioner comprises a body portion supported by said stock and
a guide member arranged to move with respect to the body
portion, said guide member contacting said first cable.
5. The crossbow of claim 4, wherein said guide member is
moveable along a guide member axis, said guide member axis
10
being parallel to said shooting axis.
6. The crossbow of claim 1, comprising a second cable
positioner arranged to position said second cable.
7. The crossbow of claim 6, wherein said second cable
15
positioner comprises an aperture in said stock.
8. The crossbow of claim 6, wherein said second cable
positioner comprises a guide member arranged to move with
respect to said stock.
9. The crossbow of claim 8, wherein said guide member
20 comprises a chamiel, said second cable positioned in said
channel.
10. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein said first cable posi-
tioner comprises a body defining a tunnel, said shooting axis
oriented in said tunnel.
25 11. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein said first cable posi-
tioner comprises a roller.
12. The crossbow of claim 11, wherein said roller is
arranged to rotate about a central axis and traverse along said
central axis.
30 13. The crossbow of claim 11, comprising a second cable
positioner arranged to position said second cable, said second
cable positioner comprising a roller.
14. The crossbow of claim 1, comprising a cable guard
attached to said stock, said cable guard comprising a first
35 cable positioner and a second cable positioner, said first cable
positioner arranged to bias said first cable away from said
shooting axis and said second cable positioner arranged to
bias said second cable away from said shooting axis.
15. The crossbow of claim 14, comprising a second cable
40 guard arranged to position said first cable and said second
cable.
16. The crossbow of claim 15, wherein said first cable
guard and said second cable guard are located on opposite
sides of said shooting axis.
45 17. The crossbow of claim 10, said body comprising a
ridge, said first cable positioner further comprising a guide
member moveable with respect to said body along said ridge,
said guide member contacting said first cable.
18. A crossbow comprising:
50 a stock, a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb
and a second rotatable member;
a bowstring extending between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member;
a first cable and a second cable extending between the first
55 rotatable member and the second rotatable member;
a cable positioner attached to said stock;
wherein the crossbow defines a shooting axis, said stock
extending below said shooting axis, the first cable posi-
tioned above said shooting axis, the second cable posi-
60 tioned below said shooting axis, said cable positioner
biasing said first cable away from said shooting axis, at
least a portion of said cable positioner moveable with
respect to said stock.
19. The crossbow of claim 18, said cable positioner com-
65 prising a body attached to said stock and a guide member in
contact with said first cable, said guide member moveable
with respect to said body.
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US 8,991,375 B2
9 10
20. The crossbow of claim 19, said guide member move-
able with respect to said body along a linear axis.

* * * * *
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EXHIBIT 2
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I 1111111111111111 11111 1111111111 11111 111111111111111 111111111111111 IIII IIII
US009255757B2

c12) United States Patent (IO) Patent No.: US 9,255,757 B2

McPherson (45) Date of Patent: Feb.9,2016

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(22) Filed: Mar. 31, 2015 5,119,797 A * 6/1992 Anderson 124/25
5,630,405 A * 5/1997 Nizov 124/25
(65) Prior Publication Data 5,678,528 A * 10/1997 Hadley . 124/25
5,823,172 A * 10/1998 Suggitt 124/25
US 2015/0204631 Al Jul. 23, 2015 6,267,108 Bl 7/2001 McPherson et al.
6,497,065 Bl* 12/2002 Huston ........................ 42/76.02
6,560,911 B2 5/2003 Sharp
6,594,936 Bl * 7/2003 Sniezak et al. ............... 42/76.02
Related U.S. Application Data 6,651,641 Bl* 11/2003 Bower et al. 124/25
6,715,481 Bl * 4/2004 Anderson 124/88
(63) Continuation of application No. 13/835,783, filed on 6,889,464 B2 * 5/2005 Degerness ................... 42/76.02
Mar. 15, 2013, now Pat. No. 8,991,375. 6,990,970 Bl * 1/2006 Darlington . 124/25.6
7,174,884 B2 2/2007 Kempf et al.
(51) Int. Cl. (Continued)
F41B 5112 (2006.01) Primary Examiner - Alexander Niconovich
F41B 5100 (2006.01)
F41B 5114 (2006.01) (57) ABSTRACT
F41B 5110 (2006.01) In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock, a
(52) U.S. Cl. first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a second
CPC ................. F41B 51123 (2013.01); F41B 51105 rotatable member. A bowstring, a first cable and a second
(2013.01); F41B 5112 (2013.01); F41B 5114 cable each extend between the first rotatable member and the
(2013.01) second rotatable member. The crossbow defines a shooting
axis. The first cable is offset from the shooting axis in a first
( 58) Field of Classification Search
direction and the second cable is offset from the shooting axis
CPC ............... F41B 5/123; F41B 5/12; F41B 5/14
in a second direction different from the first direction.
USPC .............................. 124/24.1, 25, 25.6, 86, 88
See application file for complete search history. 19 Claims, 10 Drawing Sheets

::::::::, 80
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US 9,255,757 B2
Page 2

(56) References Cited 2002/0020403 Al 2/2002 Troubridge

2005/0279338 Al* 12/2005 Dziekan . 124/25
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 2007/0101631 Al 5/2007 Bentley
2007/0289190 Al 12/2007 Oz
7,328,693 B2 2/2008 Kempf 2008/0168969 Al 7/2008 Kempf
7,363,921 B2 4/2008 Kempf 2009/0101126 Al* 4/2009 Anderson 124/25
7,441,555 Bl* 10/2008 Larson . 124/25.6 2009/0194086 Al 8/2009 Kempf
7,708,001 B2 5/2010 Kempf 2010/0116259 Al* 5/2010 Popov et al. 124/25
7,802,393 B2 * 9/2010 Judson et al. ................ 42/76.02 2010/0170488 Al * 7/2010 Rasor et al. 124/25
7,823,572 B2 11/2010 Anderson 2010/0186728 Al 7/2010 Bednar et al.
7,832,386 B2 * 11/2010 Bednar et al. 124/25 2010/0206284 Al * 8/2010 Popov et al. 124/88
7,836,871 B2 11/2010 Kempf 2010/0269807 Al 10/2010 Kempf
7,891,348 B2 * 2/2011 Colley 124/25 2011/0016764 Al 1/2011 Cales
7,930,849 B2 4/2011 Abraham et al. 2011/0030666 Al * 2/2011 Darlington . 124/25
7,938,108 B2 5/2011 Popov et al. 2011/0041820 Al * 2/2011 Stanziale 124/25
8,225,777 B2 * 7/2012 Chu 124/25 2011/0203561 Al* 8/2011 Shaffer et al. 124/25
8,234,808 B2 * 8/2012 Lewis et al. ....................... 42/73 2011/0232619 Al 9/2011 Bednar et al.
8,261,651 B2 * 9/2012 Casas Salva ................... 89/14.4 2011/0308508 Al 12/2011 Islas
8,387,603 B2 * 3/2013 Darlington . 124/25.6 2012/0006311 Al* 1/2012 Bednar et al. 124/25
8,522,762 B2 * 9/2013 Trpkovski . 124/25.6 2012/0125302 Al* 5/2012 Stanziale 124/25
8,567,376 B2 10/2013 Flint 2012/0298087 Al* 11/2012 Trpkovski . 124/25
8,627,811 Bl* 1/2014 Darlington . 124/25 2012/0304974 Al* 12/2012 Goff et al. 124/25
8,651,095 B2 * 2/2014 Islas . 124/25 2013/0213372 Al* 8/2013 Biafore et al. 124/25
8,656,899 B2 * 2/2014 Bednar et al. 124/25 2014/0069402 Al * 3/2014 McPherson . 124/25
8,671,923 B2 * 3/2014 Goff et al. 124/25 2014/0261358 Al* 9/2014 Pulkrabek et al. 124/25.6
8,701,642 B2 4/2014 Biafore, Jr. et al.
8,857,307 B2 * 10/2014 Tresserras Torre et al. ... 89/14.4 * cited by examiner
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-2 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 17

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1 2
CROSSBOW CABLING ARRANGEMENT
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED
APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation
of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/835,783, filed Mar. 15,
2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,991,375,the entire content of
which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to crossbows and more
particularly to a cabling arrangement that provides for more
balanced forces.
Crossbows are generally known in the art. Crossbows typi-
cally include a bow assembly portion mounted on a stock
portion, which typically includes a string latch and trigger
assembly for holding a drawn crossbow string and selectively
releasing it.
When a bow portion comprises a compound bow, often
multiple cables are held away from the shooting axis by a
portion of the stock. There remains a need for cabling
arrangements that provide for a more balanced crossbow
system.
All US patents and applications and all other published
documents mentioned anywhere in this application are incor-
porated herein by reference in their entirety.
Without limiting the scope of the invention a brief sum-
mary of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention is
set forth below.Additional details of the summarized embodi-
ments of the invention and/or additional embodiments of the
invention may be found in the Detailed Description of the
Invention below.
A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specifi-
cation is provided as well only for the purposes of complying
with 37 C.F.R. 1. 72. The abstract is not intended to be used for
interpreting the scope of the claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock,
a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a
second rotatable member. A bowstring and a first cable each
extend between the first rotatable member and the second
rotatable member. The crossbow defines a shooting axis, and
the stock extends below the shooting axis. The first cable is
positioned above the shooting axis. In some embodiments, a
crossbow comprises a cable positioner arranged to position
the first cable. In some embodiments, the cable positioner
comprises a roller.
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock,
a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a
second rotatable member. A bowstring, a first cable and a
second cable each extend between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member. The crossbow defines a
shooting axis. The first cable is offset from the shooting axis
in a first direction and the second cable is offset from the
shooting axis in a second direction different from the first
direction.
In some embodiments, the first cable is positioned above
the shooting axis and the second cable is positioned below the
shooting axis.
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock, a first
limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a second
rotatable member. A bowstring, a first cable and a second
cable each extend between the first rotatable member and the
second rotatable member. The crossbow defines a shooting
axis. A cable guard comprises a first cable positioner and a
second cable positioner. The first cable positioner is arranged
to hold the first cable above the shooting axis, and the second
5 cable positioner is arranged to hold the second cable below
the shooting axis.
These and other embodiments which characterize the
invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims
annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a
10
better understanding of the invention, its advantages and
objectives obtained by its use, reference can be made to the
drawings which form a further part hereof and the accompa-
nying descriptive matter, in which there are illustrated and
described various embodiments of the invention.
15
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A detailed description of the invention is hereafter
20 described with specific reference being made to the drawings.
FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a crossbow in a brace
orientation.
FIG. 2 shows a portion of a crossbow in greater detail.
FIG. 3 shows the crossbow ofFIG.1 ina drawn orientation.
25 FIG. 4 shows a top view of an embodiment of a crossbow
in a brace orientation.
FIG. 5 shows a top view of the crossbow of FIG. 4 in a
drawn orientation.
FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of a crossbow.
30 FIG. 7 shows another view of the cable positioning mem-
bers shown in FIG. 6.
FIG. 8 shows a top view of the cable positioning members
of FIGS. 6 and 7.
FIG. 9 shows the crossbow of FIG. 6 ina drawn orientation.
35 FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of a crossbow in a
brace orientation.
FIG. 11 shows the crossbow of FIG. 10 in a drawn orien-
tation.
40 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
While this invention may be embodied in many different
forms, there are described in detail herein specific embodi-
ments of the invention. This description is an exemplification
45 of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit
the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated.
For the purposes of this disclosure, like reference numerals
in the figures shall refer to like features unless otherwise
indicated.
50 FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a crossbow 10 in an
undrawn or brace condition. In some embodiments, a cross-
bow 10 comprises a compound bow portion 20 and a stock
portion 40. The bow portion 20 comprises limbs 12, rotatable
members 14 and a bowstring 16. The bow portion 20 further
55 comprises a first cable 18 and a second cable 19 that extend
between the rotatable members 14. As the crossbow 10 is
drawn, the limbs 12 flex and change shape, resulting in move-
ment of the cables 18, 19.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises a dual
60 cam bow wherein both rotatable members 14 comprise cams,
and cables 18, 19 each comprise a power cable. In some
embodiments, the rotatable members 14 and cables 20 are
mirrored across a shooting axis 34, desirably providing a
system that is substantially laterally balanced.
65 An arrow or bolt 80 desirably travels along the shooting
axis 34 when launched. In some embodiments, the stock 40
extends below said shooting axis 34.
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-2 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 15 of 17
US 9,255,757 B2
3 4
Desirably, the cables 18, 19 are held away from the shoot-
ing axis 34, which allows clearance for a bolt 80. Desirably,
the first cable 18 is positioned away from the shooting axis 34
in a first direction, and the second cable is positioned away
from the shooting axis 34 in a second direction that is differ-
ent from the first direction. In some embodiments, the first
direction is opposite the second direction. In some embodi-
ments, the first cable 18 is positioned above the shooting axis
34 and the second cable is positioned below the shooting axis
34. This arrangement helps to balance forces in the crossbow
10, for example reducing rotatable member 14 lean when
compared to a crossbow that routes multiple cables on a
common side of the shooting axis 34.
In some embodiments, the crossbow 10 comprises a first
cable positioner 48 arranged to position the first cable 18. In
some embodiments, the crossbow 10 comprises a second
cable positioner 50 arranged to position the second cable 19.
FIG. 2 shows embodiments of a first cable positioner 48
and a second cable positioner 50 in greater detail.
In some embodiments, the first cable positioner 48 com-
prises a body 24 that is arranged to position the first cable 18
away from the shooting axis 34. As shown in FIG. 2, the body
24 is attached to the stock 40. In some embodiments, the body
24 can be formed integrally with the stock. In some embodi-
ments, the body 24 comprises opposed sidewalls 26 and a top
25. In some embodiments, the body defines a tunnel through
which a bolt 80 passes during launch. Desirably, the tunnel is
sized to accommodate vanes or fletching of the bolt 80.
In some embodiments, the first cable positioner 48 com-
prises a recess or channel 49, and the first cable 18 is posi-
tioned in the channel 49. In some embodiments, the channel
49 is formed in the body 24. A channel 49 can have any
suitable orientation and is desirably oriented to match the first
cable 18. For example, the first cable 18 will generally cross
the shooting axis 34 at a non-zero angle (e.g. when viewed
from above). In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the
channel 49 is oriented at an angle to the shooting axis 34,
similar to an angle of the first cable 18. It should be noted that
the crossing angle of the first cable 18 can be different in the
brace and drawn conditions. In some embodiments, a longi-
tudinal axis of the channel 49 is oriented to match the crossing
angle of the first cable 18 in the brace condition. In some
embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the channel 49 is oriented
to match the crossing angle of the first cable 18 in the drawn
condition. In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the
channel 49 is oriented to match an average crossing angle of
the first cable 18 in the brace and drawn conditions. In some
embodiments, a width of the channel 49 increases at the ends
to allow for a change in the crossing angle of the first cable 18.
In some embodiments, a depth of the channel 49 increases
at the ends of the channel 49. In some embodiments, a surface
of the channel 49 that contacts the first cable 18 (e.g. a bottom
surface as shown in FIG. 2) is curved, which helps to distrib-
ute the lateral forces applied between the first cable 18 and the
channel 49.
In some embodiments, the first cable positioner 48 com-
prises a guide member 36 arranged to guide and/or be moved
by the first cable 18. In some embodiments, the guide member
36 comprises the channel 49. Desirably, the guide member 36
is moveable with respect to the body 24. In some embodi-
ments, the guide member 36 is arranged to traverse along a
linear axis 37 with respect to the body 24. In some embodi-
ments, the axis 37 is parallel to the shooting axis 34. In some
embodiments, the axis 37 is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis
of the channel 49. In some embodiments, the body 24 and the
guide member 36 comprise complimentary engagement fea-
tures that prevent movement in at least one direction. In some
embodiments, a guide member 36 comprises one or more
flange portions 54 arranged to abut a portion of the body 24.
In some embodiments, a flange portion 54 is provided on each
side of the guide member 36, and the flanges 54 straddle the
5 body 24. As shown in FIG. 2, the body 24 comprises a ridge
28 and the guide member 36 comprises a groove 38 that
receives the ridge 28. The guide member 36 can traverse
along the ridge 28 with respect to the body 24. In some
embodiments, forces applied to the guide member 36 by the
10 first cable 18 hold the guide member 36 against the body 24.
In some embodiments, the complimentary engagement
features of the guide member 36 and the body 24 prevent
movement in at least two orthogonal directions. For example,
in some embodiments (not shown), a ridge 28 comprises a
15 T-shaped cross-section, and the groove 38 comprises a com-
plimentary T-shape.
In some embodiments, a second cable positioner 50 com-
prises a body 30 that is arranged to position the second cable
19 away from the shooting axis 34. As shown in FIG. 2, the
20 body 30 comprises a portion of the stock 40. In some embodi-
ments, the body 30 comprises a slot or aperture 42 in the body
30. Thus, in some embodiments, the second cable 19 passes
through an aperture 42 in the stock 40, and the stock 40/body
30 holds the second cable 19 away from the shooting axis 34.
25 Desirably, the aperture 42 is of a suitable size to allow for the
movement of the second cable 19.
In some embodiments, the body 30 can comprise a separate
member that is attached to the stock 40.
In some embodiments, the second cable positioner 48 com-
30 prises a recess or channel 51, and the second cable 19 is
positioned in the channel 51. In some embodiments, the chan-
nel 51 is formed in the body 30. A channel 51 can have any
suitable orientation and is desirably oriented to match the
second cable 19. For example, the second cable 19 will gen-
35 erally cross the shooting axis 34 at a non-zero angle (e.g.
when viewed from above). In some embodiments, a longitu-
dinal axis of the channel 51 is oriented at an angle to the
shooting axis 34, similar to an angle of the second cable 19.
In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the channel 51
40 is oriented to match the crossing angle of the second cable 19
in the brace condition. In some embodiments, a longitudinal
axis of the channel 51 is oriented to match the crossing angle
of the second cable 19 in the drawn condition. In some
embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the channel 51 is oriented
45 to match an average crossing angle of the second cable 19 in
the brace and drawn conditions. In some embodiments, a
width of the channel 59 increases at the ends to allow for a
change in the crossing angle of the second cable 19.
In some embodiments, a depth of the channel 51 increases
50 at the ends of the channel 51. In some embodiments, a surface
of the channel 51 that contacts the second cable 19 (e.g. a top
surface as shown in FIG. 2) is curved, which helps to distrib-
ute the lateral forces applied between the second cable 19 and
the channel 51.
55 In some embodiments, the second cable positioner 50 com-
prises a guide member 56 arranged to guide and/or be moved
by the second cable 19. In some embodiments, the guide
member 56 comprises the channel 51. Desirably, the guide
member 56 is moveable with respect to the body 30. In some
60 embodiments, the guide member 56 is arranged to slide
within a slot or aperture 42 in the body 30. In some embodi-
ments, the guide member 56 is arranged to traverse along a
linear axis (not illustrated) with respect to the body 30. In
some embodiments, the linear axis is parallel to the shooting
65 axis 34. In some embodiments, the linear axis is orthogonal to
a longitudinal axis of the channel 51. In some embodiments,
the body 30 and the guide member 56 comprise complimen-
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-2 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 16 of 17
US 9,255,757 B2
5 6
tary engagement features that prevent movement in one or
more orthogonal directions. For example, the body 30 can
comprise a ridge and the guide member 56 can comprise a
groove that receives the ridge. The guide member 56 can
traverse along the ridge with respect to the body 30. In some
embodiments, forces applied to the guide member 56 by the
second cable 19 hold the guide member 56 against the body
30. In some embodiments, upper and lower surfaces of the
body 30 (e.g. inner surfaces of the slot or aperture 42) are
positioned to sandwich the guide member 56.
In some embodiments, a first channel 49 is oriented at a
predetermined angle to the shooting axis 34, and a second
channel 51 is oriented at an equal but opposite angle to the
shooting axis 34.
In some embodiments, a first guide member 36 is similar in
size and shape to a second guide member 56, but the two
guide members 36, 56 have different orientations. In some
embodiments, a first guide member 36 is flipped 180 degrees
with respect to a second guide member 56.
Cable positioners 48, 50 can be made from any suitable
material, such as materials traditionally used in cable posi-
tioners or cable guards in compound bows. In some embodi-
ments, at least a portion of a cable positioner 48, 50 comprises
metal. In some embodiments, at least a portion of a cable
positioner 48, 50 comprises a polymer. Guide members 36, 56
can be formed of any suitable material. In some embodi-
ments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises a polymer. In some
embodiments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises a thermo-
plastic or a thermo set polymer. In some embodiments, a guide
member 36, 56 comprises a lubricious polymer. In some
embodiments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises a low fric-
tion material such as polyoxymethylene (POM) and/or poly-
tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In some embodiments, a guide
member 36, 56 comprises Delrin® acetal resin or Delrin® AF
acetal resin available from E. I. du Pont de Nemours and
Company.
FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a crossbow 10 in a drawn
condition. In general, a latch 11 will hold the bowstring 16
and retain the crossbow 10 in a drawn condition. Actuation of
a trigger 13 will release the bowstring 16.
In some embodiments, drawing the bowstring 16 causes
the rotatable members to rotate, wherein at least one of the
first or second cable 18, 19 will be taken up on a cam track 15.
The cable 18, 19 take-up causes the limbs 12 to flex, storing
energy.
During a draw cycle, one or more ends of each cable 18, 19
can change position. In some embodiments, the first and
second cable positioners 48, 50 change their shape and/or
positioning to accommodate movement of the cables 18, 19.
For example, in some embodiments, guide members 36, 56
can be moved by the cables 18, 19.
FIGS. 4 and 5 show top views of an embodiment of a
crossbow 10. FIG. 4 shows a brace condition and FIG. 5
shows a drawn condition.
FIG. 6 shows an embodiment ofa crossbow 10 comprising
an embodiment of a first cable positioner 48 and an embodi-
ment of a second cable positioner 50. FIGS. 7 and 8 show the
embodiment of FIG. 6 in greater detail.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a cable
guard 70 that comprises a first cable positioner 48 and a
second cable positioner 50. In some embodiments, a cable
guard 70 comprises a body 72 that is attachable to the cross-
bow 10.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a first
cable guard 70a comprising a first cable positioner 48a and a
second cable positioner 50a, and a second cable guard 70b
comprising a first cable positioner 48b and a second cable
positioner 50b. In some embodiments, the first cable guard
70a and the second cable guard 70b are attached to opposing
portions of the stock 40 (e.g. opposing sides). In some
embodiments, the structure of a second cable guard 70b com-
5 prises a mirror image of the structure of a first cable guard 70a
taken across the shooting axis 34 (e.g. top view), although
when the crossbow 10 is strung, the various cable positioners
48a, 48b, 50a, 50b may assume non-mirror image positions
due to the locations of the cables 18, 19.
10
In some embodiments, a first and/or second cable posi-
tioner 48, 50 comprises a body 24, 30 comprising a shaft 60,
61. In some embodiments, a first and/or second cable posi-
tioner 48, 50 comprises a roller 62, 63. Desirably, a roller 62,
15
63 is arranged to rotate with respect to the body 24, 30, for
example rotating as a cable 18, 19 in contact with the roller 62,
63 moves (e.g. causing the rotation). In some embodiments, a
roller 62, 63 comprises a sheave having a circumferential
track for receiving a cable 18, 19.
20 In some embodiments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises a
roller 62, 63, and the roller 62, 63 is arranged to traverse with
respect to the body 24, 30. In some embodiments, roller 62, 63
moves with respect to the body 24, 30 along an axis 37. In
some embodiments, the axis 37 comprises a central axis of a
25 shaft 60, 61. Thus, in some embodiments, a roller 62, 63 is
arranged to rotate about axis 37 and traverse along axis 37.
A shaft 60, 61 can be made from any suitable material. In
some embodiments, a shaft 60, 61 comprises metal. In some
embodiments, a shaft 60, 61 comprises carbon.
30 A roller 62, 63 can be made from any suitable material. In
some embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises metal. In some
embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises carbon. In some
embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises a polymer. In some
embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises a lubricious polymer.
35 In some embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises a low friction
material such as PTFE. In some embodiments, a roller 62, 63
comprises a first material arranged to contact a cable 18, 19
and a second material arranged to contact the body 24, 30 of
the cable positioner 38, 50. For example, a roller 62, 63 can
40 comprise a body formed mainly of the first material, and a
sleeve or bearing made from a second material. The first
material can be selected for good strength and abrasion resis-
tance characteristics, and the second material can be selected
to provide high lubricity and/or low friction.
45 FIG. 9 shows the crossbow 10 of FIG. 6 in a drawn orien-
tation. As the crossbow 10 is drawn, one or more ends of each
cable 18, 19 can change position.
In some embodiments, the cables 18, 19 cause rollers 62,
63 to rotate as the crossbow 10 is drawn. In some embodi-
50 ments, the cables 18, 19 cause rollers 62, 63 to move with
respect to the cable positioner body 24, 30 as the crossbow 10
is drawn.
FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of a crossbow 10 in a
brace condition, and FIG. 11 shows the crossbow 10 in a
55 drawn condition.
The crossbow 10 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 has rotatable
members 14 that are different from, for example, the rotatable
members 14 shown in FIG. 1.
In some embodiments, a cable 18, 19 comprises an end
60 portion 68 that is arranged to feed out from the rotatable
member 14 during at least a portion of a draw cycle. In some
embodiments, an end portion 68 is arranged to unspool from
the rotatable member 14 during at least a portion of a draw
cycle. In some embodiments, an end portion 68 wraps around
65 at least a portion of a spool member 74 in the brace condition.
In some embodiments, the end portion 68 does not contact the
spool member 74 in the drawn condition.
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7 8
In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises
another suitable compound bow configuration, such as a
single-cam, 1.5/hybrid/CPS cam, binary cam or any other
suitable configuration. In some embodiments, either the first
cable 18 or the second cable 19 comprises a control cable or
secondary feed out cable.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises
cables 18, 19 and rotatable members 14 as described in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,990,970.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises one or
more force vectoring cable anchors, for example as described
in U.S. Pat. No. 8,020,544.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises one or
more limb retaining assemblies, for example as described in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/916,261.
U.S. Patent Application Nos. 61/699,271, 61/699,244,
?1/699,197, 61/699,248 and Ser. No. 12/916,261 are hereby
mcorporated herein by reference in their entireties. U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,990,970 and 8,020,544 are hereby incorporated herein
by reference in their entireties.
The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not
exhaustive. This description will suggest many variations and
alternatives to one of ordinary skill in this field of art. All these
alternatives and variations are intended to be included within
the scope of the claims where the term "comprising" means
"including, but not limited to." Those familiar with the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiments
described herein which equivalents are also intended to be
encompassed by the claims.
Further, the particular features presented in the dependent
claims can be combined with each other in other mamiers
within the scope of the invention such that the invention
should be recognized as also specifically directed to other
embodiments having any other possible combination of the
features of the dependent claims. For instance, for purposes of
claim publication, any dependent claim which follows should
be taken as alternatively written in a multiple dependent form
from all prior claims which possess all antecedents refer-
enced in such dependent claim if such multiple dependent
format is an accepted format within the jurisdiction (e.g. each
claim depending directly from claim 1 should be alternatively
taken as depending from all previous claims). In jurisdictions
where multiple dependent claim formats are restricted, the
following dependent claims should each be also taken as
alternatively written in each singly dependent claim format
which creates a dependency from a prior antecedent-possess-
ing claim other than the specific claim listed in such depen-
dent claim below.
This completes the description of the preferred and alter-
nate embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiment
described herein which equivalents are intended to be encom-
passed by the claims attached hereto.
The invention claimed is:
1. A crossbow comprising:
a stock, a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb
and a second rotatable member;
a bowstring extending between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member;
a first cable extending between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member and a second cable
extending between the first rotatable member and the
second rotatable member;
a cable positioner attached to said stock, said cable posi-
tioner arranged to position said first cable, said cable
positioner comprising a roller in contact with said first
cable;
wherein _the crossbow defines a shooting axis, the first
cable 1s offset from the shooting axis in a first direction
and the second cable is offset from the shooting axis in a
second direction different from the first direction.
5 2. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the first cable is
positioned above the shooting axis and the second cable is
positioned below the shooting axis.
3. The crossbow of claim 1, said cable positioner arranged
to position said second cable.
. 4. The crossbow of claim 3, said cable positioner compris-
10
mg a second roller in contact with said second cable.
5. The crossbow of claim 4, wherein said cable positioner
comprises a body portion and said roller is arranged to move
with respect to the body portion.
6. The crossbow of claim 5, wherein said roller is moveable
15
along a guide member axis, said guide member axis being
parallel to said shooting axis.
7. The crossbow of claim 1, comprising a second cable
positioner attached to said stock, said second cable positioner
20
arranged to position said first cable.
8. The crossbow of claim 7, wherein said second cable
positioner is arranged to position said second cable.
9. The crossbow of claim 7, wherein said second cable
positioner comprises a guide member arranged to move with
respect to said stock.
25
10. The crossbow of claim 9, wherein said guide member
comprises a roller.
11. The crossbow of claim 10, wherein said second cable
positioner comprises a second roller.
30
12. The crossbow of claim 7, wherein said cable positioner
and said second cable positioner are attached to opposite
sides of said stock.
13. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein said roller is arranged
to rotate about a central axis and traverse along said central
35
axis.
14. The crossbow of claim 12, said second cable positioner
comprising a roller.
15. The crossbow of claim 1, said cable positioner arranged
to position said second cable.
40
16. The crossbow of claim 15, comprising a second cable
positioner arranged to position said first cable and said second
cable.
17. The crossbow of claim 16, wherein said cable posi-
ti_one: and said_ second cable positioner are located on oppo-
site sides of said shooting axis.
45
18. A crossbow comprising:
a stock, a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb
and a second rotatable member;
a bowstring extending between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member;
50
a first cable extending between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member;
a cable positioner attached to said stock, said cable posi-
tioner biasing said first cable in a first direction, said
55
cable positioner biasing a second cable in a second
direction different from said first direction, said cable
positioner comprising a guide member in contact with
said first cable, said guide member movable with respect
to said stock;
wherein the crossbow defines a shooting axis, said stock
60
extending below said shooting axis, the first cable posi-
tioned above said shooting axis.
19. The crossbow of claim 18, said cable positioner com-
prising a second guide member in contact with said second
cable, said second guide member moveable with respect to
65
said stock.
* * * * *
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-3 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 18

EXHIBIT 3
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-3 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 18
I 1111111111111111 11111 1111111111 111111111111111 IIIII IIIII lll111111111111111
US0094 76665B2

c12) United States Patent (IO) Patent No.: US 9,476,665 B2

McPherson (45) Date of Patent: Oct. 25, 2016

(54) CROSSBOW CABLING ARRANGEMENT (56) References Cited

(71) Applicant: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

577,641 A 2/1897 Bruder

(72) Inventor: Mathew A. McPherson, Norwalk, WI 2,500,509 A 3/1950 Bailey
(US) 2,609,810 A 9/1952 Gruner
0283,637 S 4/1986 Williams
4,587,944 A 5/1986 Barnett
(73) Assignee: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 4,649,891 A 3/1987 Bozek
4,693,228 A 9/1987 Simonds et al.
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term ofthis 4,722,318 A 2/1988 Yankey
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 H486 H 7/1988 Savioli
4,766,874 A 8/1988 Nishioka
U.S.C. 154(b) by O days. 4,769,938 A 9/1988 Chestnut et al.
4,860,719 A 8/1989 Scheiterlein
(21) Appl. No.: 15/018,683 4,879,987 A * 11/1989 Nishioka ................. F41B 5/123
124/25
4,917,071 A 4/1990 Bozek
(22) Filed: Feb. 8, 2016 5,119,797 A * 6/1992 Anderson ............... F41B 5/143
124/24.1
(65) Prior Publication Data 5,630,405 A 5/1997 Nizov
5,678,528 A 10/1997 Hadley
US 2016/0153740 Al Jun. 2, 2016 5,823,172 A 10/1998 Suggitt
6,267,108 Bl 7/2001 McPherson et al.
6,497,065 Bl 12/2002 Huston
6,560,911 B2 5/2003 Sharp
Related U.S. Application Data 6,594,936 Bl 7/2003 Sniezak et al.
6,651,641 Bl 11/2003 Bower et al.
(63) Continuation of application No. 14/674,160, filed on 6,715,481 Bl * 4/2004 Anderson ................. F41B 5/10
Mar. 31, 2015, now Pat. No. 9,255,757, which is a 124/23.1
continuation of application No. 13/835,783, filed on 6,889,464 B2 5/2005 Degerness
Mar. 15, 2013, now Pat. No. 8,991,375. 6,990,970 Bl 1/2006 Darlington
(Continued)
(51) Int. Cl. Primary Examiner - Alexander Niconovich
F41B 5112 (2006.01) (57) ABSTRACT
F41B 5114 (2006.01)
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock,
F41B 5110 (2006.01) a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a
(52) U.S. Cl. second rotatable member. A bowstring, a first cable and a
CPC ............... F41B 51123 (2013.01); F41B 51105 second cable each extend between the first rotatable member
(2013.01); F41B 5112 (2013.01); F41B 5114 and the second rotatable member. The crossbow defines a
(2013.01) shooting axis. The first cable is offset from the shooting axis
(58) Field of Classification Search in a first direction and the second cable is offset from the
CPC ............. F41B 5/123; F41B 5/12; F41B 5/14 shooting axis in a second direction different from the first
USPC ......................................... 124/25, 86, 88, 89 direction.
See application file for complete search history. 19 Claims, 10 Drawing Sheets
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-3 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 18

US 9,476,665 B2
Page 2

(56) References Cited 9,200,863 B2 * 12/2015 Bednar ..................... F41B 5/12

9,255,757 B2 2/2016 McPherson
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 2002/0020403 Al 2/2002 Troubridge
2005/0279338 Al* 12/2005 Dziekan .................... F41B 5/12
7,174,884 B2 2/2007 Kempf et al. 124/25
7,328,693 B2 2/2008 Kempf 2007/0101631 Al 5/2007 Bentley
7,363,921 B2 4/2008 Kempf 2007/0289190 Al 12/2007 Oz
7,441,555 Bl 10/2008 Larson 2008/0168969 Al 7/2008 Kempf
7,708,001 B2 5/2010 Kempf 2009/0101126 Al 4/2009 Anderson
7,802,393 B2 9/2010 Judson et al. 2009/0194086 Al 8/2009 Kempf
7,823,572 B2 11/2010 Anderson 2010/0116259 Al 5/2010 Popov et al.
7,832,386 B2 11/2010 Bednar et al. 2010/0170488 Al 7/2010 Rasor et al.
7,836,871 B2 11/2010 Kempf 2010/0186728 Al 7/2010 Bednar et al.
7,891,348 B2 2/2011 Colley 2010/0206284 Al 8/2010 Popov et al.
7,930,849 B2 4/2011 Abraham et al. 2010/0269807 Al 10/2010 Kempf
7,938,108 B2 * 5/2011 Popov ..................... F41B 5/123 2011/0016764 Al 1/2011 Cales
124/25 2011/0030666 Al * 2/2011 Darlington .............. F41B 5/105
7,997,258 B2 * 8/2011 Shepley .................... F41B 5/12 124/25
124/25 2011/0041820 Al 2/2011 Stanziale
8,225,777 B2 * 7/2012 Chu ........................ F41B 5/123 2011/0203561 Al 8/2011 Shaffer et al.
124/25 2011/0232619 Al 9/2011 Bednar et al.
8,234,808 B2 8/2012 Lewis et al. 2011/0308508 Al 12/2011 Islas
8,261,651 B2 9/2012 Casas Salva 2012/0006310 Al* 1/2012 Sims ......................... F41B 5/10
8,387,603 B2 * 3/2013 Darlington ................ F41B 5/10 124/25
124/23.1 2012/0006311 Al 1/2012 Bednar et al.
8,522,762 B2 9/2013 Trpkovski 2012/0125302 Al 5/2012 Stanziale
8,567,376 B2 10/2013 Flint 2012/0298087 Al* 11/2012 Trpkovski ................. F41B 5/10
8,627,811 Bl* 1/2014 Darlington ............ F41B 5/1426 124/25
124/25 2012/0304974 Al* 12/2012 Goff ........................ F41B 5/123
8,651,095 B2 * 2/2014 Islas ........................ F41B 5/105 124/25
124/25 2013/0213372 Al 8/2013 Biafore et al.
8,656,899 B2 2/2014 Bednar et al. 2014/0069402 Al * 3/2014 McPherson ............. F41B 5/123
8,671,923 B2 3/2014 Goff et al. 124/25
8,701,642 B2 * 4/2014 Biafore, Jr. ............. F41B 5/123 2014/0261358 Al 9/2014 Pulkrabek et al.
124/25 2015/0285582 Al* 10/2015 Chang ..................... F41B 5/105
8,857,307 B2 10/2014 Tresserras Torre et al. 124/25
8,978,636 B2 * 3/2015 Bednar ................. F41B 5/1426
124/25 * cited by examiner
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-3 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 18

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US 9,476,665 B2
1 2
CROSSBOW CABLING ARRANGEMENT
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED
APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation
of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/674,160, filed Mar. 31,
2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 13/835,783, filed Mar. 15, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No.
8,991,375, the entire content of which are hereby incorpo-
rated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to crossbows and more
particularly to a cabling arrangement that provides for more
balanced forces.
Crossbows are generally known in the art. Crossbows
typically include a bow assembly portion mounted on a
stock portion, which typically includes a string latch and
trigger assembly for holding a drawn crossbow string and
selectively releasing it.
When a bow portion comprises a compound bow, often
multiple cables are held away from the shooting axis by a
portion of the stock. There remains a need for cabling
arrangements that provide for a more balanced crossbow
system.
All US patents and applications and all other published
documents mentioned anywhere in this application are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Without limiting the scope of the invention a brief sum-
mary of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention
is set forth below. Additional details of the summarized
embodiments of the invention and/or additional embodi-
ments of the invention may be found in the Detailed
Description of the Invention below.
A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the speci-
fication is provided as well only for the purposes of com-
plying with 37 C.F.R. 1.72. The abstract is not intended to
be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock,
a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a
second rotatable member. A bowstring and a first cable each
extend between the first rotatable member and the second
rotatable member. The crossbow defines a shooting axis, and
the stock extends below the shooting axis. The first cable is
positioned above the shooting axis. In some embodiments, a
crossbow comprises a cable positioner arranged to position
the first cable. In some embodiments, the cable positioner
comprises a roller.
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock,
a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a
second rotatable member. A bowstring, a first cable and a
second cable each extend between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member. The crossbow defines a
shooting axis. The first cable is offset from the shooting axis
in a first direction and the second cable is offset from the
shooting axis in a second direction different from the first
direction.
In some embodiments, the first cable is positioned above
the shooting axis and the second cable is positioned below
the shooting axis.
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock, a
first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a
second rotatable member. A bowstring, a first cable and a
second cable each extend between the first rotatable member
and the second rotatable member. The crossbow defines a
shooting axis. A cable guard comprises a first cable posi-
5 tioner and a second cable positioner. The first cable posi-
tioner is arranged to hold the first cable above the shooting
axis, and the second cable positioner is arranged to hold the
second cable below the shooting axis.
These and other embodiments which characterize the
10 invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims
annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a
better understanding of the invention, its advantages and
objectives obtained by its use, reference can be made to the
drawings which form a further part hereof and the accom-
15 panying descriptive matter, in which there are illustrated and
described various embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
20 A detailed description of the invention is hereafter
described with specific reference being made to the draw-
ings.
FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a crossbow in a brace
orientation.
25 FIG. 2 shows a portion of a crossbow in greater detail.
FIG. 3 shows the crossbow of FIG. 1 in a drawn orien-
tation.
FIG. 4 shows a top view of an embodiment of a crossbow
in a brace orientation.
30 FIG. 5 shows a top view of the crossbow of FIG. 4 in a
drawn orientation.
FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of a crossbow.
FIG. 7 shows another view of the cable positioning
members shown in FIG. 6.
35 FIG. 8 shows a top view of the cable positioning members
of FIGS. 6 and 7.
FIG. 9 shows the crossbow of FIG. 6 in a drawn orien-
tation.
FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of a crossbow in a
40 brace orientation.
FIG. 11 shows the crossbow of FIG. 10 in a drawn
orientation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
45 INVENTION
While this invention may be embodied in many different
forms, there are described in detail herein specific embodi-
ments of the invention. This description is an exemplifica-
50 tion of the principles of the invention and is not intended to
limit the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated.
For the purposes of this disclosure, like reference numer-
als in the figures shall refer to like features unless otherwise
indicated.
55 FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a crossbow 10 in an
undrawn or brace condition. In some embodiments, a cross-
bow 10 comprises a compound bow portion 20 and a stock
portion 40. The bow portion 20 comprises limbs 12, rotat-
able members 14 and a bowstring 16. The bow portion 20
60 further comprises a first cable 18 and a second cable 19 that
extend between the rotatable members 14. As the crossbow
10 is drawn, the limbs 12 flex and change shape, resulting in
movement of the cables 18, 19.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises a
65 dual cam bow wherein both rotatable members 14 comprise
cams, and cables 18, 19 each comprise a power cable. In
some embodiments, the rotatable members 14 and cables 20
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-3 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 15 of 18
US 9,476,665 B2
3 4
are mirrored across a shooting axis 34, desirably providing
a system that is substantially laterally balanced.
An arrow or bolt 80 desirably travels along the shooting
axis 34 when launched. In some embodiments, the stock 40
extends below said shooting axis 34.
Desirably, the cables 18, 19 are held away from the
shooting axis 34, which allows clearance for a bolt 80.
Desirably, the first cable 18 is positioned away from the
shooting axis 34 in a first direction, and the second cable is
positioned away from the shooting axis 34 in a second
direction that is different from the first direction. In some
embodiments, the first direction is opposite the second
direction. In some embodiments, the first cable 18 is posi-
tioned above the shooting axis 34 and the second cable is
positioned below the shooting axis 34. This arrangement
helps to balance forces in the crossbow 10, for example
reducing rotatable member 14 lean when compared to a
crossbow that routes multiple cables on a common side of
the shooting axis 34.
In some embodiments, the crossbow 10 comprises a first
cable positioner 48 arranged to position the first cable 18. In
some embodiments, the crossbow 10 comprises a second
cable positioner 50 arranged to position the second cable 19.
FIG. 2 shows embodiments of a first cable positioner 48 and
a second cable positioner 50 in greater detail.
In some embodiments, the first cable positioner 48 com-
prises a body 24 that is arranged to position the first cable 18
away from the shooting axis 34. As shown in FIG. 2, the
body 24 is attached to the stock 40. In some embodiments,
the body 24 can be formed integrally with the stock. In some
embodiments, the body 24 comprises opposed sidewalls 26
and a top 25. In some embodiments, the body defines a
tunnel through which a bolt 80 passes during launch. Desir-
ably, the tunnel is sized to accommodate vanes or fletching
of the bolt 80.
In some embodiments, the first cable positioner 48 com-
prises a recess or channel 49, and the first cable 18 is
positioned in the channel 49. In some embodiments, the
channel 49 is formed in the body 24. A channel 49 can have
any suitable orientation and is desirably oriented to match
the first cable 18. For example, the first cable 18 will
generally cross the shooting axis 34 at a non-zero angle (e.g.
when viewed from above). In some embodiments, a longi-
tudinal axis of the channel 49 is oriented at an angle to the
shooting axis 34, similar to an angle of the first cable 18. It
should be noted that the crossing angle of the first cable 18
can be different in the brace and drawn conditions. In some
embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the channel 49 is
oriented to match the crossing angle of the first cable 18 in
the brace condition. In some embodiments, a longitudinal
axis of the channel 49 is oriented to match the crossing angle
of the first cable 18 in the drawn condition. In some
embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the channel 49 is
oriented to match an average crossing angle of the first cable
18 in the brace and drawn conditions. In some embodiments,
a width of the channel 49 increases at the ends to allow for
a change in the crossing angle of the first cable 18.
In some embodiments, a depth of the channel 49 increases
at the ends of the channel 49. In some embodiments, a
surface of the channel 49 that contacts the first cable 18 (e.g.
a bottom surface as shown in FIG. 2) is curved, which helps
to distribute the lateral forces applied between the first cable
18 and the channel 49.
In some embodiments, the first cable positioner 48 com-
prises a guide member 36 arranged to guide and/or be moved
by the first cable 18. In some embodiments, the guide
member 36 comprises the channel 49. Desirably, the guide
member 36 is moveable with respect to the body 24. In some
embodiments, the guide member 36 is arranged to traverse
along a linear axis 37 with respect to the body 24. In some
embodiments, the axis 37 is parallel to the shooting axis 34.
5 In some embodiments, the axis 37 is orthogonal to a
longitudinal axis of the channel 49. In some embodiments,
the body 24 and the guide member 36 comprise compli-
mentary engagement features that prevent movement in at
least one direction. In some embodiments, a guide member
10 36 comprises one or more flange portions 54 arranged to
abut a portion of the body 24. In some embodiments, a
flange portion 54 is provided on each side of the guide
member 36, and the flanges 54 straddle the body 24. As
shown in FIG. 2, the body 24 comprises a ridge 28 and the
15 guide member 36 comprises a groove 38 that receives the
ridge 28. The guide member 36 can traverse along the ridge
28 with respect to the body 24. In some embodiments, forces
applied to the guide member 36 by the first cable 18 hold the
guide member 36 against the body 24.
20 In some embodiments, the complimentary engagement
features of the guide member 36 and the body 24 prevent
movement in at least two orthogonal directions. For
example, in some embodiments (not shown), a ridge 28
comprises a T-shaped cross-section, and the groove 38
25 comprises a complimentary T-shape.
In some embodiments, a second cable positioner 50
comprises a body 30 that is arranged to position the second
cable 19 away from the shooting axis 34. As shown in FIG.
2, the body 30 comprises a portion of the stock 40. In some
30 embodiments, the body 30 comprises a slot or aperture 42 in
the body 30. Thus, in some embodiments, the second cable
19 passes through an aperture 42 in the stock 40, and the
stock 40/body 30 holds the second cable 19 away from the
shooting axis 34. Desirably, the aperture 42 is of a suitable
35 size to allow for the movement of the second cable 19.
In some embodiments, the body 30 can comprise a
separate member that is attached to the stock 40.
In some embodiments, the second cable positioner 48
comprises a recess or channel 51, and the second cable 19
40 is positioned in the channel 51. In some embodiments, the
channel 51 is formed in the body 30. A channel 51 can have
any suitable orientation and is desirably oriented to match
the second cable 19. For example, the second cable 19 will
generally cross the shooting axis 34 at a non-zero angle (e.g.
45 when viewed from above). In some embodiments, a longi-
tudinal axis of the channel 51 is oriented at an angle to the
shooting axis 34, similar to an angle of the second cable 19.
In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the channel
51 is oriented to match the crossing angle of the second
50 cable 19 in the brace condition. In some embodiments, a
longitudinal axis of the channel 51 is oriented to match the
crossing angle of the second cable 19 in the drawn condition.
In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis of the channel 51
is oriented to match an average crossing angle of the second
55 cable 19 in the brace and drawn conditions. In some embodi-
ments, a width of the channel 59 increases at the ends to
allow for a change in the crossing angle of the second cable
19.
In some embodiments, a depth of the channel 51 increases
60 at the ends of the channel 51. In some embodiments, a
surface of the channel 51 that contacts the second cable 19
(e.g. a top surface as shown in FIG. 2) is curved, which helps
to distribute the lateral forces applied between the second
cable 19 and the channel 51.
65 In some embodiments, the second cable positioner 50
comprises a guide member 56 arranged to guide and/or be
moved by the second cable 19. In some embodiments, the
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-3 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 16 of 18
US 9,476,665 B2
5 6
guide member 56 comprises the channel 51. Desirably, the
guide member 56 is moveable with respect to the body 30.
In some embodiments, the guide member 56 is arranged to
slide within a slot or aperture 42 in the body 30. In some
embodiments, the guide member 56 is arranged to traverse
along a linear axis (not illustrated) with respect to the body
30. In some embodiments, the linear axis is parallel to the
shooting axis 34. In some embodiments, the linear axis is
orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the channel 51. In some
embodiments, the body 30 and the guide member 56 com-
prise complimentary engagement features that prevent
movement in one or more orthogonal directions. For
example, the body 30 can comprise a ridge and the guide
member 56 can comprise a groove that receives the ridge.
The guide member 56 can traverse along the ridge with
respect to the body 30. In some embodiments, forces applied
to the guide member 56 by the second cable 19 hold the
guide member 56 against the body 30. In some embodi-
ments, upper and lower surfaces of the body 30 (e.g. inner
surfaces of the slot or aperture 42) are positioned to sand-
wich the guide member 56.
In some embodiments, a first channel 49 is oriented at a
predetermined angle to the shooting axis 34, and a second
channel 51 is oriented at an equal but opposite angle to the
shooting axis 34.
In some embodiments, a first guide member 36 is similar
in size and shape to a second guide member 56, but the two
guide members 36, 56 have different orientations. In some
embodiments, a first guide member 36 is flipped 180 degrees
with respect to a second guide member 56.
Cable positioners 48, 50 can be made from any suitable
material, such as materials traditionally used in cable posi-
tioners or cable guards in compound bows. In some embodi-
ments, at least a portion of a cable positioner 48, 50
comprises metal. In some embodiments, at least a portion of
a cable positioner 48, 50 comprises a polymer. Guide
members 36, 56 can be formed of any suitable material. In
some embodiments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises a
polymer. In some embodiments, a guide member 36, 56
comprises a thermoplastic or a thermoset polymer. In some
embodiments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises a lubricious
polymer. In some embodiments, a guide member 36, 56
comprises a low friction material such as polyoxymethylene
(POM) and/or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In some
embodiments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises Delrin®
acetal resin or Delrin® AF acetal resin available from E. I.
du Pont de Nemours and Company.
FIG. 3 shows an embodiment ofa crossbow 10 in a drawn
condition. In general, a latch 11 will hold the bowstring 16
and retain the crossbow 10 in a drawn condition. Actuation
of a trigger 13 will release the bowstring 16.
In some embodiments, drawing the bowstring 16 causes
the rotatable members to rotate, wherein at least one of the
first or second cable 18, 19 will be taken up on a cam track
15. The cable 18, 19 take-up causes the limbs 12 to flex,
storing energy.
During a draw cycle, one or more ends of each cable 18,
19 can change position. In some embodiments, the first and
second cable positioners 48, 50 change their shape and/or
positioning to accommodate movement of the cables 18, 19.
For example, in some embodiments, guide members 36, 56
can be moved by the cables 18, 19.
FIGS. 4 and 5 show top views of an embodiment of a
crossbow 10. FIG. 4 shows a brace condition and FIG. 5
shows a drawn condition.
FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of a crossbow 10 compris-
ing an embodiment of a first cable positioner 48 and an
embodiment of a second cable positioner 50. FIGS. 7 and 8
show the embodiment of FIG. 6 in greater detail.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a cable
guard 70 that comprises a first cable positioner 48 and a
5 second cable positioner 50. In some embodiments, a cable
guard 70 comprises a body 72 that is attachable to the
crossbow 10.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a first
cable guard 70a comprising a first cable positioner 48a and
10
a second cable positioner 50a, and a second cable guard 70b
comprising a first cable positioner 48b and a second cable
positioner 50b. In some embodiments, the first cable guard
70a and the second cable guard 70b are attached to opposing
15
portions of the stock 40 (e.g. opposing sides). In some
embodiments, the structure of a second cable guard 70b
comprises a mirror image of the structure of a first cable
guard 70a taken across the shooting axis 34 (e.g. top view),
although when the crossbow 10 is strung, the various cable
20 positioners 48a, 48b, 50a, 50b may assume non-mirror
image positions due to the locations of the cables 18, 19.
In some embodiments, a first and/or second cable posi-
tioner 48, 50 comprises a body 24, 30 comprising a shaft 60,
61. In some embodiments, a first and/or second cable
25 positioner 48, 50 comprises a roller 62, 63. Desirably, a
roller 62, 63 is arranged to rotate with respect to the body 24,
30, for example rotating as a cable 18, 19 in contact with the
roller 62, 63 moves (e.g. causing the rotation). In some
embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises a sheave having a
30 circumferential track for receiving a cable 18, 19.
In some embodiments, a guide member 36, 56 comprises
a roller 62, 63, and the roller 62, 63 is arranged to traverse
with respect to the body 24, 30. In some embodiments, roller
62, 63 moves with respect to the body 24, 30 along an axis
35 37. In some embodiments, the axis 37 comprises a central
axis of a shaft 60, 61. Thus, in some embodiments, a roller
62, 63 is arranged to rotate about axis 37 and traverse along
axis 37.
A shaft 60, 61 can be made from any suitable material. In
40 some embodiments, a shaft 60, 61 comprises metal. In some
embodiments, a shaft 60, 61 comprises carbon.
A roller 62, 63 can be made from any suitable material. In
some embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises metal. In some
embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises carbon. In some
45 embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises a polymer. In some
embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises a lubricious poly-
mer. In some embodiments, a roller 62, 63 comprises a low
friction material such as PTFE. In some embodiments, a
roller 62, 63 comprises a first material arranged to contact a
50 cable 18, 19 and a second material arranged to contact the
body 24, 30 of the cable positioner 38, 50. For example, a
roller 62, 63 can comprise a body formed mainly of the first
material, and a sleeve or bearing made from a second
material. The first material can be selected for good strength
55 and abrasion resistance characteristics, and the second mate-
rial can be selected to provide high lubricity and/or low
friction.
FIG. 9 shows the crossbow 10 of FIG. 6 in a drawn
orientation. As the crossbow 10 is drawn, one or more ends
60 of each cable 18, 19 can change position. In some embodi-
ments, the cables 18, 19 cause rollers 62, 63 to rotate as the
crossbow 10 is drawn. In some embodiments, the cables 18,
19 cause rollers 62, 63 to move with respect to the cable
positioner body 24, 30 as the crossbow 10 is drawn.
65 FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of a crossbow 10 in
a brace condition, and FIG. 11 shows the crossbow 10 in a
drawn condition.
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-3 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 17 of 18
US 9,476,665 B2
7 8
The crossbow 10 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 has rotatable
members 14 that are different from, for example, the rotat-
able members 14 shown in FIG. 1.
In some embodiments, a cable 18, 19 comprises an end
portion 68 that is arranged to feed out from the rotatable
member 14 during at least a portion of a draw cycle. In some
embodiments, an end portion 68 is arranged to unspool from
the rotatable member 14 during at least a portion of a draw
cycle. In some embodiments, an end portion 68 wraps
around at least a portion of a spool member 74 in the brace
condition. In some embodiments, the end portion 68 does
not contact the spool member 74 in the drawn condition.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises
another suitable compound bow configuration, such as a
single-cam, 1.5/hybrid/CPS cam, binary cam or any other
suitable configuration. In some embodiments, either the first
cable 18 or the second cable 19 comprises a control cable or
secondary feed out cable.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises
cables 18, 19 and rotatable members 14 as described in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,990,970.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises one or
more force vectoring cable anchors, for example as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,020,544.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises one or
more limb retaining assemblies, for example as described in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/916261.
U.S. Patent Application Nos. 61/699271, 61/699244,
61/699197, 61/699248 and Ser. No. 12/916261 are hereby
incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,990,970 and 8,020,544 are hereby incorporated
herein by reference in their entireties.
The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not
exhaustive. This description will suggest many variations
and alternatives to one of ordinary skill in this field of art.
All these alternatives and variations are intended to be
included within the scope of the claims where the term
"comprising" means "including, but not limited to." Those
familiar with the art may recognize other equivalents to the
specific embodiments described herein which equivalents
are also intended to be encompassed by the claims.
Further, the particular features presented in the dependent
claims can be combined with each other in other manners
within the scope of the invention such that the invention
should be recognized as also specifically directed to other
embodiments having any other possible combination of the
features of the dependent claims. For instance, for purposes
of claim publication, any dependent claim which follows
should be taken as alternatively written in a multiple depen-
dent form from all prior claims which possess all anteced-
ents referenced in such dependent claim if such multiple
dependent format is an accepted format within the jurisdic-
tion (e.g. each claim depending directly from claim 1 should
be alternatively taken as depending from all previous
claims). In jurisdictions where multiple dependent claim
formats are restricted, the following dependent claims
should each be also taken as alternatively written in each
singly dependent claim format which creates a dependency
from a prior antecedent-possessing claim other than the
specific claim listed in such dependent claim below.
This completes the description of the preferred and alter-
nate embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiment
described herein which equivalents are intended to be
encompassed by the claims attached hereto.
The invention claimed is:
1. A crossbow comprising:
a stock and a bow portion;
the bow portion comprising a first limb supporting a first
5 rotatable member, a second limb supporting a second
rotatable member, a first cable segment, a second cable
segment, and a bowstring;
a first cable positioner contacting the stock and moveable
with respect to the stock, the first cable positioner
10
biasing the first cable segment away from the stock;
wherein the crossbow defines a shooting axis, the first
cable segment is offset from the shooting axis in a first
direction and the second cable segment is offset from
15
the shooting axis in a second direction different from
the first direction.
2. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the first cable
segment is positioned above the shooting axis and the
second cable segment is positioned below the shooting axis.
20 3. The crossbow of claim 1, comprising a finger trigger,
the finger trigger located below the shooting axis, the first
cable positioner located above the shooting axis.
4. The crossbow of claim 1, the first cable positioner
comprising a channel, the first cable segment positioned in
25 the channel.
5. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the first cable
positioner comprises a guide member that is moveable along
a guide member axis, the guide member axis being parallel
to said shooting axis.
30 6. The crossbow of claim 1, comprising a second cable
positioner arranged to position the second cable segment.
7. The crossbow of claim 6, wherein the second cable
positioner comprises an aperture in the stock.
8. The crossbow of claim 6, wherein the second cable
35 positioner comprises a guide member arranged to move with
respect to the stock.
9. The crossbow of claim 8, the second cable positioner
moveable along a second cable positioner axis, the second
cable positioner axis being parallel to the shooting axis.
40 10. The crossbow of claim 6, wherein said guide member
comprises a channel, said second cable positioned in said
channel.
11. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein said first cable
positioner comprises a body defining a tunnel, the shooting
45 axis oriented in said tunnel.
12. A crossbow defining a shooting axis, the crossbow
comprising:
a stock, a finger trigger, a first limb supporting a first
rotatable member, a second limb supporting a second
50 rotatable member, a first cable segment and a bow-
string;
a first cable positioner arranged to bias the first cable
segment away from the shooting axis, the first cable
positioner comprising a channel, the first cable segment
55 positioned in the channel;
wherein the finger trigger is located below the shooting
axis and the first cable positioner is located above the
shooting axis.
13. The crossbow of claim 12, wherein the first cable
60 positioner is moveable with respect to the stock.
14. The crossbow of claim 13, wherein the first cable
positioner is moveable along a first cable positioner axis, the
first cable positioner axis being parallel to the shooting axis.
15. The crossbow of claim 12, comprising a second cable
65 segment located below the shooting axis.
16. The crossbow of claim 12, comprising a second cable
segment extending through the stock.
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-3 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 18 of 18

US 9,476,665 B2
9 10
17. The crossbow of claim 16, comprising a second cable
positioner in contact with the second cable segment.
18. The crossbow of claim 17, the second cable positioner
moveable with respect to the stock.
19. The crossbow of claim 18, wherein the second cable 5
positioner is moveable along a second cable positioner axis,
the second cable positioner axis being parallel to the shoot-
ing axis.

* * * * *
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-4 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 11

EXHIBIT 4
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-4 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 11
I 1111111111111111 11111 111111111111111 11111 111111111111111 IIIIII IIII IIII IIII
US009500433B2

c12) United States Patent (IO) Patent No.: US 9,500,433 B2

McPherson (45) Date of Patent: Nov. 22, 2016

(54) CROSSBOW WITH VARIABLE CABLE (56) References Cited

DISPLACEMENT
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
(71) Applicant: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US)
5,651,355 A 7/1997 Gallops, Jr.
5,983,880 A 11/1999 Saunders
(72) Inventor: Mathew A. McPherson, Norwalk, WI 6,267,108 Bl 7/2001 McPherson et al.
(US) 8,651,095 B2 * 2/2014 Islas ........................ F41B 5/105
124/25
(73) Assignee: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 8,991,375 B2 * 3/2015 McPherson ............. F41B 5/123
124/24.1
9,068,791 B2 6/2015 McPherson
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term ofthis 9,200,863 B2 * 12/2015 Bednar ..................... F41B 5/12
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 9,255,757 B2 2/2016 McPherson
U.S.C. 154(b) by O days. 2002/0096160 Al 7/2002 Gallops, Jr.
2011/0203561 Al 8/2011 Shaffer et al.
(21) Appl. No.: 14/940,037 2011/0308508 Al 12/2011 Islas
2013/0055997 Al* 3/2013 Badgerow ............. F41B 5/1403
124/88
(22) Filed: Nov. 12, 2015 2013/0213373 Al 8/2013 Biafore, Jr.
2014/0069402 Al 3/2014 McPherson
(65) Prior Publication Data 2015/0285582 Al* 10/2015 Chang ..................... F41B 5/105
124/25
US 2016/0138886 Al May 19, 2016
* cited by examiner
Related U.S. Application Data
(60) Provisional application No. 62/079,370, filed on Nov. Primary Examiner - John Ricci
13, 2014.
(57) ABSTRACT
(51) Int. Cl. In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock
F41B 5112 (2006.01) defining a shooting axis and a bow portion comprising a
F41B 5114 (2006.01) bowstring and a cable. The stock comprises an aperture
(52) U.S. Cl. formed therein and the cable extends through the aperture.
CPC ............. F41B 511403 (2013.01); F41B 51123 A surface of the aperture biases the cable in a direction
(2013.01) lateral to the shooting axis. At least a portion of the surface
(58) Field of Classification Search is oriented non-parallel to the shooting axis.
CPC ....................................................... F41B 5/123
See application file for complete search history. 20 Claims, 6 Drawing Sheets
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-4 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 11

U.S. Patent Nov. 22, 2016 Sheet 1 of 6 US 9,500,433 B2

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-4 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 8 of 11

U.S. Patent Nov. 22, 2016 Sheet 6 of 6 US 9,500,433 B2

 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-4 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 9 of 11
US 9,500,433 B2
1 2
CROSSBOW WITH VARIABLE CABLE
DISPLACEMENT
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED
APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/079,370, filed Nov. 13, 2014, the entire
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by refer-
ence.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to crossbows and more
particularly to compound crossbows.
Compound crossbows are known in the art, and generally
include a bowstring and harness cable system. The harness
cables often include dual power cables in a two-cam bow
system, or alternatively, one power cable and a secondary or
control cable in a single-cam or hybrid/1.5 cam bow.
While the bowstring propels an arrow along a shooting
axis, the harness cables are generally displaced in a direction
lateral to the shooting axis to avoid interfering with the
arrow. For example, the harness cables can extend through
the stock of the crossbow, and the stock holds the cables in
a laterally displaced position. An example of a crossbow
having harness cables that pass through the stock is dis-
closed in US 2014/0069402, the entire disclosure of which
is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
The harness cables hold high amounts of tension, and the
lateral displacement results in the cables applying relatively
high lateral loads to the stock or any intermediary compo-
nents positioned between the cable(s) and stock, such as a
cable slide. For example, in a brace condition, the harness
cables can apply a force of 30 pounds or more to the stock.
When the crossbow is cocked, the tension in the harness
cables can increase twofold or greater, resulting in a force of
60 pounds or more being applied to the stock. The frictional
forces between components decreases the efficiency of the
crossbow.
The displacement of the harness cables can also cause
limb torsion and cam lean, which generally increase as the
crossbow is drawn.
There remains a need for novel crossbow designs that
reduce internal forces and increase the efficiency of the
crossbow. There remains a need for novel crossbow designs
that minimize limb torsion and cam lean.
All US patents and applications and all other published
documents mentioned anywhere in this application are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Without limiting the scope of the invention a brief sum-
mary of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention
is set forth below. Additional details of the summarized
embodiments of the invention and/or additional embodi-
ments of the invention may be found in the Detailed
Description of the Invention below.
A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the speci-
fication is provided as well only for the purposes of com-
plying with 37 C.F.R. 1.72. The abstract is not intended to
be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock
defining a shooting axis and a bow portion comprising a
bowstring and a cable. A cable positioner is arranged to bias
the cable in a direction lateral to the shooting axis. The cable
positioner moves with respect to the stock along a travel path
as the bow is drawn. At least a portion of the travel path is
non-parallel to the shooting axis.
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow has a first draw
5 orientation and a second draw orientation. The crossbow
comprises a stock defining a shooting axis and a bow portion
comprising a bowstring and a cable. A cable positioner is
arranged to bias the cable in a direction lateral to the
shooting axis. The crossbow defines a distance between the
10
shooting axis and the cable, and the distance in the first draw
orientation is different from the distance in the second draw
orientation.
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock
defining a shooting axis and a bow portion comprising a
15
bowstring and a cable. The stock comprises an aperture
formed therein and the cable extends through the aperture.
A surface of the aperture biases the cable in a direction
lateral to the shooting axis. At least a portion of the surface
20 is oriented non-parallel to the shooting axis.
These and other embodiments which characterize the
invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims
annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a
better understanding of the invention, its advantages and
25 objectives obtained by its use, reference can be made to the
drawings which form a further part hereof and the accom-
panying descriptive matter, in which there are illustrated and
described various embodiments of the invention.
30 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A detailed description of the invention is hereafter
described with specific reference being made to the draw-
ings.
35 FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of a crossbow in a
brace condition.
FIGS. 3 and 4 show the crossbow of FIG. 1 in a cocked
condition.
FIG. 5 shows a portion of an embodiment of a crossbow
40 in greater detail.
FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of a crossbow.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
INVENTION
45
While this invention may be embodied in many different
forms, there are described in detail herein specific embodi-
ments of the invention. This description is an exemplifica-
tion of the principles of the invention and is not intended to
50 limit the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated.
For the purposes of this disclosure, like reference numer-
als in the figures shall refer to like features unless otherwise
indicated.
FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of a crossbow 10 in
55 an undrawn or brace orientation. Desirably, the crossbow 10
comprises a stock 12, a trigger 14, a string latch 16 and a
bow portion 20. The stock desirably defines a shooting axis
46. The bow portion 20 can comprise any suitable type of
bow. In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises
60 a prod 22 that attaches the stock 12, a first limb 24 and a
second limb 26. In some embodiments, the limbs 24, 26 are
supported by the prod 22. In some embodiments, the limbs
24, 26 comprise "split limb" members, each comprising two
limb portions.
65 Desirably, the bow portion 20 comprises a first rotatable
member 30 and a second rotatable member 32. In some
embodiments, the first rotatable member 30 is supported by
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-4 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 10 of 11
US 9,500,433 B2
3 4
the first limb 24 and the second rotatable member 32 is
supported by the second limb 26.
In some embodiments, a bowstring 18 is attached at one
end to the first rotatable member 30 and attached at another
end to the second rotatable member 32.
Desirably, the bow portion 20 comprises a harness cable
system comprising at least a first cable 34. In some embodi-
ments, the harness cable system comprises a second cable
36. In some embodiments, both cables 34, 36 comprise
power cables. In some embodiments, the first cable 34
comprises a power cable and the second cable 36 comprises
a control cable.
In some embodiments, the cables 34, 36 pass through a
portion of the stock 12. In some embodiments, the crossbow
10 comprises a cable positioner 40 that positioned the cables
34, 36. An example of a cable positioner 40 is disclosed in
us 2014/0069402.
In some embodiments, an aperture or slot 50 is formed in
the stock 12, and the cable positioner 40 moves along a
portion of the slot 50. For example, in some embodiments,
the cables 34, 36 bias the cable positioner 40 against an
upper surface of the slot 50. As the crossbow 10 is drawn,
the position of the rotatable members 30, 32 changes as the
limbs 24, 26 flex, and the cable positioner 40 moves in
accordance with the position of the cables 34, 36.
In some embodiments, a surface 52 of the slot 50 biases
and displaces the cable(s) 34, 36 away from the shooting
axis 46. In some embodiments, the cable positioner 40
moves along the surface 52 as the crossbow is drawn. In
some embodiments, the surface 52 comprises a guide for the
cable positioner 40 and defines a travel path of the cable
positioner 40.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of the surface 52
is non-parallel to the shooting axis 46, and an amount of
lateral displacement of the cables 34, 36 caused by the stock
12 changes as the bow portion 20 is drawn and the cable
positioner 40 moves along the surface 52.
In some embodiments, a distance between the shooting
axis 46 and the first cable 34 in a first draw orientation is
different from the distance in a second draw orientation. For
example, in some embodiments, a distance between the
shooting axis 46 and the first cable 34 in a brace orientation
is different from the distance in a cocked orientation. The
distance desirably comprises a shortest distance between the
shooting axis 46 and the first cable 34, and the distance can
be measured in a direction orthogonal to the shooting axis
46.
In some embodiments, the distance in a first draw orien-
tation is greater than the distance in a second draw orien-
tation, and the second draw orientation comprises a greater
amount of draw than the first draw orientation. Thus, in
some embodiments, as the crossbow is drawn and tension in
the cable 34 increases, the lateral displacement of the cable
34 away from the shooting axis 46 decreases. In some
embodiments, an amount of cam lean induced by the
cables(s) 34, 36 remains relatively constant throughout the
draw cycle.
FIGS. 3 and 4 show the crossbow 10 of FIG. 1 in a cocked
orientation. The bowstring 28 is held by the latch 16 in a full
draw orientation. The rotatable members 30, 32 and limbs
24, 26 have moved with respect to their positions in FIG. 1.
The cable positioner 40 has been displaced rearward as it has
been moved by the cables 34, 36 along the surface 52.
In some embodiments, the cables 34, 36 are positioned
closer to the shooting axis 46 when the crossbow 10 is
cocked than when the crossbow 10 is at brace. This arrange-
ment is desirable because the lateral displacement is reduced
when the forces in the cables 34, 36 are higher.
In some embodiments, the surface 52 of the slot 50 is
inclined with respect to the shooting axis 46. In some
5 embodiments, the surface 52 is declined with respect to the
shooting axis 46.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of a travel path
of the cable positioner 40 extends non-parallel to the shoot-
ing axis 46. In some embodiments, the travel path is inclined
10 with respect to the bow portion 20, or is inclined with respect
to the shooting axis 46. In some embodiments, the travel
path is declined with respect to the bow portion 20, or is
declined with respect to the shooting axis 46.
In some embodiments, the travel path of the cable posi-
15 tioner 40 extends between first and second locations of the
cable positioner 40 at respective first and second draw
orientations. In some embodiments, the travel path is linear.
In some embodiments, the travel path comprises curvature.
In some embodiments, a distance between the shooting
20 axis 46 and the cable positioner 40 in a first draw orientation
is different from the distance in a second draw orientation.
For example, in some embodiments, a distance between the
shooting axis 46 and the cable positioner 40 in a brace
orientation is different from the distance in a cocked orien-
25 tation.
FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the aperture or slot 50 in
greater detail.
A travel path of the cable positioner 40, and/or the surface
52 of the aperture 50 can be oriented at any suitable non-zero
30 angle to the shooting axis 46. In some embodiments, the
angle ranges from greater than zero to less than ninety
degrees. In some embodiments, the angle ranges from
greater than zero to less than forty-five degrees. In some
embodiments, the angle ranges from greater than zero to less
35 than twenty degrees. In some embodiments, the angle ranges
from two to ten degrees. In some embodiments, the angle
ranges from five to seven degrees.
In some embodiments, a cable positioner 40 is positioned
to allow for clearance of an arrow vane. Although the cable
40 positioner 40 will move to a second position when the
crossbow is cocked, upon firing, the cable positioner 40
move back toward the first position and desirably provide
clearance for the arrow vane. In some embodiments, the
vane of an arrow 56 will overlap a portion of the slot 50
45 and/or overlap a portion of the surface 52.
The slot 50 may have any suitable shape and orientation.
The surface 52 of the slot 50 can also follow any suitable
contour. FIG. 5 shows a surface 52 that is linear and defines
a linear travel path.
50 FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of a slot 50, wherein
a surface 52 comprises curvature. The surface 52, and/or the
travel path, can have any suitable type and amount of
curvature. In some embodiments, a portion of the surface 52,
and/or the travel path, defines a parabolic shape. In some
55 embodiments, a portion of surface 52, and/or the travel path,
comprises curvature that is concave 60 with respect to the
shooting axis 46. In some embodiments, a portion of surface
52, and/or the travel path, comprises curvature that is convex
62 with respect to the shooting axis 46. In some embodi-
60 ments, the specific curvature and displacement can be opti-
mized to follow specifics of the draw force curve of the
crossbow, for example, allowing the cable(s) 34, 36 to
traverse closer to the shooting axis 46 in conjunction with
increases in tension in the cable(s) 34, 36.
65 The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not
exhaustive. This description will suggest many variations
and alternatives to one of ordinary skill in this field of art.
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-4 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 11 of 11
US 9,500,433 B2
5 6
All these alternatives and variations are intended to be
included within the scope of the claims where the term
"comprising" means "including, but not limited to." Those
familiar with the art may recognize other equivalents to the
specific embodiments described herein which equivalents 5
are also intended to be encompassed by the claims.
Further, the particular features presented in the dependent
claims can be combined with each other in other manners
within the scope of the invention such that the invention
should be recognized as also specifically directed to other 10
embodiments having any other possible combination of the
features of the dependent claims. For instance, for purposes
of claim publication, any dependent claim which follows
should be taken as alternatively written in a multiple depen-
dent form from all prior claims which possess all anteced- 15
ents referenced in such dependent claim if such multiple
dependent format is an accepted format within the jurisdic-
tion (e.g. each claim depending directly from claim 1 should
be alternatively taken as depending from all previous
claims). In jurisdictions where multiple dependent claim 20
formats are restricted, the following dependent claims
should each be also taken as alternatively written in each
singly dependent claim format which creates a dependency
from a prior antecedent-possessing claim other than the
specific claim listed in such dependent claim below. 25
This completes the description of the preferred and alter-
nate embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiment
described herein which equivalents are intended to be
encompassed by the claims attached hereto. 30
The invention claimed is:
1. A crossbow comprising:
a stock defining a shooting axis;
a bow portion comprising a bowstring and a cable;
35
a cable positioner arranged to bias said cable in a direction
lateral to the shooting axis, the cable positioner moving
with respect to the stock along a travel path as the bow
is drawn, at least a portion of the travel path being
non-parallel to the shooting axis.
40
2. The crossbow of claim 1, the stock comprising a slot,
the cable positioner oriented in the slot.
3. The crossbow of claim 2, the slot comprising a surface
that abuts the cable positioner, the surface defining the travel
path.
45
4. The crossbow of claim 1, the travel path being linear.
5. The crossbow of claim 1, the travel path comprising
curvature.
6. The crossbow of claim 1 having a first drawn orienta-
tion and a second draw orientation, wherein a distance
50
between the shooting axis and the cable positioner in the first
draw orientation is different from the distance between the
shooting axis and the cable positioner in the second draw
orientation.
7. The crossbow of claim 6, wherein the distance in the
first draw orientation is greater than the distance in the
second draw orientation, the crossbow being cocked in the
second draw orientation.
8. A crossbow having a first draw orientation and a second
draw orientation, the crossbow comprising:
a stock defining a shooting axis;
a bow portion comprising a bowstring and a cable;
a cable positioner arranged to bias said cable in a direction
lateral to the shooting axis,
wherein the crossbow defines a distance between the
shooting axis and the cable, the distance in the first
draw orientation being different from the distance in the
second draw orientation.
9. The crossbow of claim 8, wherein the distance in the
first draw orientation is greater than the distance in the
second draw orientation.
10. The crossbow of claim 9, the crossbow being cocked
in the second draw orientation.
11. The crossbow of claim 8, the stock comprising a slot,
the cable passing through the slot.
12. The crossbow of claim 11, wherein a surface of the
slot defines a travel path for the cable positioner, at least a
portion of the travel path non-parallel to the shooting axis.
13. The crossbow of claim 12, wherein the travel path
comprises curvature.
14. A crossbow comprising:
a stock defining a shooting axis, the stock having an
aperture formed therein;
a bow portion comprising a bowstring and a cable, the
cable extending through the aperture;
wherein a surface of the aperture biases the cable in a
direction lateral to the shooting axis, at least a portion
of the surface oriented non-parallel to the shooting axis.
15. The crossbow of claim 14, the crossbow having first
and second draw orientations, the cable positioned at a first
location in the aperture in the first draw orientation, the cable
positioned at a second location in the aperture in the second
draw orientation.
16. The crossbow of claim 15, a distance between the
shooting axis and the first location being different from a
distance between the shooting axis and the second location.
17. The crossbow of claim 15, a distance between the
shooting axis and the first location being greater than a
distance between the shooting axis and the second location.
18. The crossbow of claim 15, wherein said surface is flat
between the first location and the second location.
19. The crossbow of claim 14 comprising a cable posi-
tioner located between the surface and the cable, the cable
positioner contacting the surface and the cable.
20. The crossbow of claim 19, wherein the cable posi-
tioner moves along a length of the aperture when the
crossbow is drawn.
* * * * *
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-5 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 11

EXHIBIT 5
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-5 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 11
I 1111111111111111 11111 111111111111111 1111111111 1111111111111111 IIII IIII IIII
US009879939B2

c12) United States Patent (IO) Patent No.: US 9,879,939 B2

McPherson (45) Date of Patent: *Jan. 30, 2018

(54) CROSSBOW WITH VARIABLE CABLE (58) Field of Classification Search

DISPLACEMENT CPC ....................................................... F41B 5/123
See application file for complete search history.
(71) Applicant: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US)
(56) References Cited
(72) Inventor: Mathew A. McPherson, Norwalk, WI
(US) U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

(73) Assignee: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 5,651,355 A 7/1997 Gallops, Jr.
5,983,880 A ll/ 1999 Saunders
6,267,108 Bl 7/2001 McPherson et al.
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term ofthis 8,651,095 B2 2/2014 Islas
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 8,991,375 B2 3/2015 McPherson
U.S.C. 154(b) by O days. 9,068,791 B2 6/2015 McPherson
9,200,863 B2 12/2015 Bednar
This patent is subject to a terminal dis- 9,255,757 B2 2/2016 McPherson
claimer. 9,500,433 B2 * 11/2016 McPherson ........... F41B 5/1403
2002/0096160 Al 7/2002 Gallops, Jr.
(21) Appl. No.: 15/359,364 2011/0203561 Al 8/2011 Shaffer et al.
2011/0308508 Al 12/2011 Islas
2013/0055997 Al 3/2013 Badgerow
(22) Filed: Nov. 22, 2016 2013/0213373 Al 8/2013 Biafore, Jr.
2014/0069402 Al 3/2014 McPherson
(65) Prior Publication Data 2015/0285582 Al 10/2015 Chang
US 2017/0074615 Al Mar. 16, 2017 * cited by examiner

Related U.S. Application Data Primary Examiner - John Ricci

(63) Continuation of application No. 14/940,037, filed on
Nov. 12, 2015, now Pat. No. 9,500,433. (57) ABSTRACT
(60) Provisional application No. 62/079,370, filed on Nov. In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock
13, 2014. defining a shooting axis and a bow portion comprising a
bowstring and a cable. The stock comprises an aperture
(51) Int. Cl. formed therein and the cable extends through the aperture.
F41B 5112 (2006.01) A surface of the aperture biases the cable in a direction
F41B 5114 (2006.01) lateral to the shooting axis. At least a portion of the surface
(52) U.S. Cl. is oriented non-parallel to the shooting axis.
CPC ............ F41B 511403 (2013.01); F41B 51123
(2013.01); F41B 511411 (2013.01) 19 Claims, 6 Drawing Sheets
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-5 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 11

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-5 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 9 of 11
US 9,879,939 B2
1 2
CROSSBOW WITH VARIABLE CABLE
DISPLACEMENT
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED
APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation application that claims
the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/940,037,
filed Nov. 12, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application No. 62/079,370, filed Nov. 13,
2014, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorpo-
rated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to crossbows and more
particularly to compound crossbows.
Compound crossbows are known in the art, and generally
include a bowstring and harness cable system. The harness
cables often include dual power cables in a two-cam bow
system, or alternatively, one power cable and a secondary or
control cable in a single-cam or hybrid/1.5 cam bow.
While the bowstring propels an arrow along a shooting
axis, the harness cables are generally displaced in a direction
lateral to the shooting axis to avoid interfering with the
arrow. For example, the harness cables can extend through
the stock of the crossbow, and the stock holds the cables in
a laterally displaced position. An example of a crossbow
having harness cables that pass through the stock is dis-
closed in US 2014/0069402, the entire disclosure of which
is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
The harness cables hold high amounts of tension, and the
lateral displacement results in the cables applying relatively
high lateral loads to the stock or any intermediary compo-
nents positioned between the cable(s) and stock, such as a
cable slide. For example, in a brace condition, the harness
cables can apply a force of 30 pounds or more to the stock.
When the crossbow is cocked, the tension in the harness
cables can increase twofold or greater, resulting in a force of
60 pounds or more being applied to the stock. The frictional
forces between components decreases the efficiency of the
crossbow.
The displacement of the harness cables can also cause
limb torsion and cam lean, which generally increase as the
crossbow is drawn.
There remains a need for novel crossbow designs that
reduce internal forces and increase the efficiency of the
crossbow. There remains a need for novel crossbow designs
that minimize limb torsion and cam lean.
All US patents and applications and all other published
documents mentioned anywhere in this application are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Without limiting the scope of the invention a brief sum-
mary of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention
is set forth below. Additional details of the summarized
embodiments of the invention and/or additional embodi-
ments of the invention may be found in the Detailed
Description of the Invention below.
A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the speci-
fication is provided as well only for the purposes of com-
plying with 37 C.F.R. 1.72. The abstract is not intended to
be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock
defining a shooting axis and a bow portion comprising a
bowstring and a cable. A cable positioner is arranged to bias
the cable in a direction lateral to the shooting axis. The cable
positioner moves with respect to the stock along a travel path
as the bow is drawn. At least a portion of the travel path is
5 non-parallel to the shooting axis.
In at least one embodiment, a crossbow has a first draw
orientation and a second draw orientation. The crossbow
comprises a stock defining a shooting axis and a bow portion
comprising a bowstring and a cable. A cable positioner is
10 arranged to bias the cable in a direction lateral to the
shooting axis. The crossbow defines a distance between the
shooting axis and the cable, and the distance in the first draw
orientation is different from the distance in the second draw
orientation.
15 In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock
defining a shooting axis and a bow portion comprising a
bowstring and a cable. The stock comprises an aperture
formed therein and the cable extends through the aperture.
A surface of the aperture biases the cable in a direction
20 lateral to the shooting axis. At least a portion of the surface
is oriented non-parallel to the shooting axis.
These and other embodiments which characterize the
invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims
annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a
25 better understanding of the invention, its advantages and
objectives obtained by its use, reference can be made to the
drawings which form a further part hereof and the accom-
panying descriptive matter, in which there are illustrated and
described various embodiments of the invention.
30
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A detailed description of the invention is hereafter
described with specific reference being made to the draw-
35 ings.
FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of a crossbow in a
brace condition.
FIGS. 3 and 4 show the crossbow of FIG. 1 in a cocked
condition.
40 FIG. 5 shows a portion of an embodiment of a crossbow
in greater detail.
FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of a crossbow.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
45 INVENTION
While this invention may be embodied in many different
forms, there are described in detail herein specific embodi-
ments of the invention. This description is an exemplifica-
50 tion of the principles of the invention and is not intended to
limit the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated.
For the purposes of this disclosure, like reference numer-
als in the figures shall refer to like features unless otherwise
indicated.
55 FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of a crossbow 10 in
an undrawn or brace orientation. Desirably, the crossbow 10
comprises a stock 12, a trigger 14, a string latch 16 and a
bow portion 20. The stock desirably defines a shooting axis
46. The bow portion 20 can comprise any suitable type of
60 bow. In some embodiments, the bow portion 20 comprises
a prod 22 that attaches the stock 12, a first limb 24 and a
second limb 26. In some embodiments, the limbs 24, 26 are
supported by the prod 22. In some embodiments, the limbs
24, 26 comprise "split limb" members, each comprising two
65 limb portions.
Desirably, the bow portion 20 comprises a first rotatable
member 30 and a second rotatable member 32. In some
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-5 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 10 of 11
US 9,879,939 B2
3 4
embodiments, the first rotatable member 30 is supported by
the first limb 24 and the second rotatable member 32 is
supported by the second limb 26.
In some embodiments, a bowstring 18 is attached at one
end to the first rotatable member 30 and attached at another
end to the second rotatable member 32.
Desirably, the bow portion 20 comprises a harness cable
system comprising at least a first cable 34. In some embodi-
ments, the harness cable system comprises a second cable
36. In some embodiments, both cables 34, 36 comprise
power cables. In some embodiments, the first cable 34
comprises a power cable and the second cable 36 comprises
a control cable.
In some embodiments, the cables 34, 36 pass through a
portion of the stock 12. In some embodiments, the crossbow
10 comprises a cable positioner 40 that positioned the cables
34, 36. An example of a cable positioner 40 is disclosed in
us 2014/0069402.
In some embodiments, an aperture or slot 50 is formed in
the stock 12, and the cable positioner 40 moves along a
portion of the slot 50. For example, in some embodiments,
the cables 34, 36 bias the cable positioner 40 against an
upper surface of the slot 50. As the crossbow 10 is drawn,
the position of the rotatable members 30, 32 changes as the
limbs 24, 26 flex, and the cable positioner 40 moves in
accordance with the position of the cables 34, 36.
In some embodiments, a surface 52 of the slot 50 biases
and displaces the cable(s) 34, 36 away from the shooting
axis 46. In some embodiments, the cable positioner 40
moves along the surface 52 as the crossbow is drawn. In
some embodiments, the surface 52 comprises a guide for the
cable positioner 40 and defines a travel path of the cable
positioner 40.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of the surface 52
is non-parallel to the shooting axis 46, and an amount of
lateral displacement of the cables 34, 36 caused by the stock
12 changes as the bow portion 20 is drawn and the cable
positioner 40 moves along the surface 52.
In some embodiments, a distance between the shooting
axis 46 and the first cable 34 in a first draw orientation is
different from the distance in a second draw orientation. For
example, in some embodiments, a distance between the
shooting axis 46 and the first cable 34 in a brace orientation
is different from the distance in a cocked orientation. The
distance desirably comprises a shortest distance between the
shooting axis 46 and the first cable 34, and the distance can
be measured in a direction orthogonal to the shooting axis
46.
In some embodiments, the distance in a first draw orien-
tation is greater than the distance in a second draw orien-
tation, and the second draw orientation comprises a greater
amount of draw than the first draw orientation. Thus, in
some embodiments, as the crossbow is drawn and tension in
the cable 34 increases, the lateral displacement of the cable
34 away from the shooting axis 46 decreases. In some
embodiments, an amount of cam lean induced by the
cables(s) 34, 36 remains relatively constant throughout the
draw cycle.
FIGS. 3 and 4 show the crossbow 10 of FIG. 1 in a cocked
orientation. The bowstring 28 is held by the latch 16 in a full
draw orientation. The rotatable members 30, 32 and limbs
24, 26 have moved with respect to their positions in FIG. 1.
The cable positioner 40 has been displaced rearward as it has
been moved by the cables 34, 36 along the surface 52.
In some embodiments, the cables 34, 36 are positioned
closer to the shooting axis 46 when the crossbow 10 is
cocked than when the crossbow 10 is at brace. This arrange-
ment is desirable because the lateral displacement is reduced
when the forces in the cables 34, 36 are higher.
In some embodiments, the surface 52 of the slot 50 is
inclined with respect to the shooting axis 46. In some
5 embodiments, the surface 52 is declined with respect to the
shooting axis 46.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of a travel path
of the cable positioner 40 extends non-parallel to the shoot-
ing axis 46. In some embodiments, the travel path is inclined
10 with respect to the bow portion 20, or is inclined with respect
to the shooting axis 46. In some embodiments, the travel
path is declined with respect to the bow portion 20, or is
declined with respect to the shooting axis 46.
In some embodiments, the travel path of the cable posi-
15 tioner 40 extends between first and second locations of the
cable positioner 40 at respective first and second draw
orientations. In some embodiments, the travel path is linear.
In some embodiments, the travel path comprises curvature.
In some embodiments, a distance between the shooting
20 axis 46 and the cable positioner 40 in a first draw orientation
is different from the distance in a second draw orientation.
For example, in some embodiments, a distance between the
shooting axis 46 and the cable positioner 40 in a brace
orientation is different from the distance in a cocked orien-
25 tation.
FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the aperture or slot 50 in
greater detail.
A travel path of the cable positioner 40, and/or the surface
52 of the aperture 50 can be oriented at any suitable non-zero
30 angle to the shooting axis 46. In some embodiments, the
angle ranges from greater than zero to less than ninety
degrees. In some embodiments, the angle ranges from
greater than zero to less than forty-five degrees. In some
embodiments, the angle ranges from greater than zero to less
35 than twenty degrees. In some embodiments, the angle ranges
from two to ten degrees. In some embodiments, the angle
ranges from five to seven degrees.
In some embodiments, a cable positioner 40 is positioned
to allow for clearance of an arrow vane. Although the cable
40 positioner 40 will move to a second position when the
crossbow is cocked, upon firing, the cable positioner 40
move back toward the first position and desirably provide
clearance for the arrow vane. In some embodiments, the
vane of an arrow 56 will overlap a portion of the slot 50
45 and/or overlap a portion of the surface 52.
The slot 50 may have any suitable shape and orientation.
The surface 52 of the slot 50 can also follow any suitable
contour. FIG. 5 shows a surface 52 that is linear and defines
a linear travel path.
50 FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of a slot 50, wherein
a surface 52 comprises curvature. The surface 52, and/or the
travel path, can have any suitable type and amount of
curvature. In some embodiments, a portion of the surface 52,
and/or the travel path, defines a parabolic shape. In some
55 embodiments, a portion of surface 52, and/or the travel path,
comprises curvature that is concave 60 with respect to the
shooting axis 46. In some embodiments, a portion of surface
52, and/or the travel path, comprises curvature that is convex
62 with respect to the shooting axis 46. In some embodi-
60 ments, the specific curvature and displacement can be opti-
mized to follow specifics of the draw force curve of the
crossbow, for example, allowing the cable(s) 34, 36 to
traverse closer to the shooting axis 46 in conjunction with
increases in tension in the cable(s) 34, 36.
65 The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not
exhaustive. This description will suggest many variations
and alternatives to one of ordinary skill in this field of art.
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-5 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 11 of 11
US 9,879,939 B2
5 6
All these alternatives and vanat10ns are intended to be
included within the scope of the claims where the term
"comprising" means "including, but not limited to." Those
familiar with the art may recognize other equivalents to the
specific embodiments described herein which equivalents
are also intended to be encompassed by the claims.
Further, the particular features presented in the dependent
claims can be combined with each other in other manners
within the scope of the invention such that the invention
should be recognized as also specifically directed to other
embodiments having any other possible combination of the
features of the dependent claims. For instance, for purposes
of claim publication, any dependent claim which follows
should be taken as alternatively written in a multiple depen-
dent form from all prior claims which possess all anteced-
ents referenced in such dependent claim if such multiple
dependent format is an accepted format within the jurisdic-
tion (e.g. each claim depending directly from claim 1 should
be alternatively taken as depending from all previous
claims). In jurisdictions where multiple dependent claim
formats are restricted, the following dependent claims
should each be also taken as alternatively written in each
singly dependent claim format which creates a dependency
from a prior antecedent-possessing claim other than the
specific claim listed in such dependent claim below.
This completes the description of the preferred and alter-
nate embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiment
described herein which equivalents are intended to be
encompassed by the claims attached hereto.
The invention claimed is:
1. A crossbow comprising:
a stock defining a shooting axis;
a bow portion comprising a first limb supporting a first
rotatable member, a second limb supporting a second
rotatable member, a bowstring extending between the
first and second rotatable members, and a cable
arranged to be taken up on the first rotatable member;
and
a cable positioner arranged to bias said cable away from
the shooting axis, said cable separated from said shoot-
ing axis by a shortest distance as measured perpendicu-
lar to the shooting axis;
the crossbow having a first draw orientation and a second
draw orientation, the shortest distance being greater in
the first draw orientation than in the second draw
orientation.
2. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the stock comprises
an aperture and the cable passes through the aperture.
3. The crossbow of claim 2, wherein the cable positioner
contacts a surface of said stock that defines said aperture.
4. The crossbow of claim 3, wherein said surface is
non-parallel to said shooting axis.
5. The crossbow of claim 1, said cable positioner having
a first orientation with respect to the stock in the first draw
orientation, said cable positioner having a second orientation
with respect to the stock in the second draw orientation.
6. The crossbow of claim 1, further comprising a second
cable, the second cable separated from said shooting axis by
a distance as measured perpendicular to the shooting axis,
the distance being greater in the first draw orientation than
5 in the second draw orientation.
7. The crossbow of claim 6, the second cable arranged to
be taken up on the second rotatable member.
8. The crossbow of claim 6, wherein said cable positioner
biases said second cable away from the shooting axis.
10 9. The crossbow of claim 6, said cable positioner having
a first orientation with respect to the stock in the first draw
orientation, said cable positioner having a second orientation
with respect to the stock in the second draw orientation.
10. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein said cable carries a
15 higher amount of tension in the second draw orientation than
in the first draw orientation.
11. A crossbow comprising:
a bow portion comprising a first limb supporting a first
rotatable member, a second limb supporting a second
20 rotatable member, a bowstring extending between the
first and second rotatable members, and a cable
arranged to be taken up on the first rotatable member;
and
a stock defining a shooting axis, the stock arranged to bias
25 said cable away from the shooting axis, said cable
separated from said shooting axis by a shortest distance
as measured perpendicular to the shooting axis;
the crossbow having a first draw orientation and a second
draw orientation, the shortest distance being greater in
30 the first draw orientation than in the second draw
orientation.
12. The crossbow of claim 11, wherein the stock com-
prises an aperture and the cable passes through the aperture.
13. The crossbow of claim 12, wherein a surface that
35 defines said aperture is non-parallel to said shooting axis.
14. The crossbow of claim 11, said cable having a first
orientation with respect to the stock in the first draw orien-
tation, said cable positioner having a second orientation with
respect to the stock in the second draw orientation.
40
15. The crossbow of claim 11, further comprising a
second cable, the second cable separated from said shooting
axis by a distance as measured perpendicular to the shooting
axis, the distance being greater in the first draw orientation
than in the second draw orientation.
45
16. The crossbow of claim 15, the second cable arranged
to be taken up on the second rotatable member.
17. The crossbow of claim 15, wherein said stock com-
prises an aperture and the second cable passes through the
aperture.
50
18. The crossbow of claim 15, said second cable having
a first orientation with respect to the stock in the first draw
orientation and a second orientation with respect to the stock
in the second draw orientation.
19. The crossbow of claim 11, wherein said cable carries
55 a higher amount of tension in the second draw orientation
than in the first draw orientation.
* * * * *
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 20

EXHIBIT 6
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 20
I 1111111111111111 1111111111 111111111111111 111111111111111 lll111111111111111
USO 10690435B2

c12) United States Patent (IO) Patent No.: US 10,690,435 B2

Trpkovski (45) Date of Patent: Jun.23,2020

(54) BULLPUP CROSSBOW (58) Field of Classification Search

CPC ............... F41B 5/12; F41B 5/123; F41B 5/14
(71) Applicant: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) USPC ...................................................... 124/25, 86
See application file for complete search history.
(72) Inventor: Paul Trpkovski, Green Cove Springs,
FL (US) (56) References Cited

(73) Assignee: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

577,641 2/1897 Bruder

A
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term ofthis 2,500,509 3/1950 Bailey
A
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 2,609,810 9/1952 Gruner
A
U.S.C. 154(b) by O days. 2,714,884 8/1955 Ickes
A
2,842,114 7/1958 Duncan
A
(21) Appl. No.: 15/990,533 3,486,495 12/1969 Allen
A
3,851,638 12/1974 Alexander
A
3,923,035 12/1975 Trotter
A
(22) Filed: May 25, 2018 3,945,368 3/1976 Jones
A
3,958,551 5/1976 Ketchum
A
(65) Prior Publication Data 3,987,777 10/1976 Darlington
A
3,993,039 11/1976 Grooves et al.
A
US 2018/0274877 Al Sep. 27, 2018 4,041,927 8/1977 Van House
A
4,077,385 3/1978 Fredrickson
A
Related U.S. Application Data 4,134,383 1/1979 Flood
A
4,169,453 10/1979 Hunsicker
A
(63) Continuation of application No. 15/594,411, filed on 4,201,177 5/1980 Holman et al.
A
4,246,883 1/1981 Ash
A
May 12, 2017, now Pat. No. 9,982,960, which is a
4,261,320 4/1981 Barna
A
continuation of application No. 14/704,619, filed on 4,337,749 7/1982 Barna
A
May 5, 2015, now Pat. No. 9,658,025, which is a 4,338,914 7/1982 Braswell
A
continuation of application No. 13/480,774, filed on (Continued)
May 25, 2012, now Pat. No. 9,022,013. Primary Examiner - Alexander R Niconovich
(60) Provisional application No. 61/489,727, filed on May (57) ABSTRACT
25, 2011.
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock and a
bow portion comprising at least one limb and a string. A riser
(51) Int. Cl.
attaches said bow portion to the stock. A latch is located in
F41B 5112 (2006.01)
proximity to a butt of the stock. The latch is configured to
F41C 23114 (2006.01)
F41B 5110 (2006.01) retain the string in a drawn condition. A trigger is arranged
to release the latch. An extension member extends from the
F41B 5114 (2006.01)
butt of the stock to the latch. The extension member and the
(52) U.S. Cl.
stock define a cavity, and the latch assembly is oriented
CPC .................. F41B 5112 (2013.01); F41B 5110
within the cavity.
(2013.01); F41B 51123 (2013.01); F41B 5114
(2013.01); F41C 23114 (2013.01) 15 Claims, 11 Drawing Sheets

36

50

20

38
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 20

US 10,690,435 B2
Page 2

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0283,637 S 4/1986 Williams 124/25
4,587,944 A 5/1986 Barnett 8,800,540 Bl 8/2014 Choma
4,649,891 A 3/1987 Bozek 8,813,735 B2 * 8/2014 Biafore, Jr. ............... F41B 5/12
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5,205,269 A 4/1993 Guzzetta 2005/0279338 Al 12/2005 Dziekan
5,243,956 A 9/1993 Luehring 2006/0048424 Al* 3/2006 Weir ....................... F41A 19/00
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5,368,006 A 11/1994 McPherson 2006/0086346 Al 4/2006 Middleton
5,373,831 A 12/1994 Cushman 2006/0169259 Al * 8/2006 Chang ..................... F41B 5/123
5,503,135 A 4/1996 Bunk 124/25
5,522,373 A * 6/1996 Barnett ..................... F41B 5/12 2007/0044782 Al 3/2007 Norkus
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6,698,413 Bl 3/2004 Ecklund 2009/0101126 Al 4/2009 Anderson
6,705,304 Bl 3/2004 Pauluhn 2009/0194086 Al* 8/2009 Kempf .................... F41A 19/10
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7,578,289 B2 8/2009 Norkus 2010/0224176 Al 9/2010 Kaylan
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124/25 2011/0016764 Al 1/2011 Cales
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42/75.03 124/31
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124/25 2012/0304974 Al* 12/2012 Goff ...................... F41B 5/1469
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8,042,530 B2 10/2011 Barnett 2014/0283805 Al* 9/2014 Dunlop ..................... F41B 5/12
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8,375,928 Bl 2/2013 Bednar et al. 2015/0013654 Al 1/2015 Bednar
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 20

US 10,690,435 B2
Page 3

(56) References Cited

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

2015/0128924 Al* 5/2015 Houle ................... F41B 5/0094

124/25
2015/0233665 Al 8/2015 Trpkovski
2016/0040952 Al* 2/2016 Carroll, Jr................. F41B 5/12
124/25
2016/0252321 Al* 9/2016 Balgaard ................. F41C 23/20
42/73
2017/0038175 Al* 2/2017 Barnett ..................... F41B 5/12
2018/0195822 Al* 7/2018 Jonsson .................. F41A 11/02
* cited by examiner
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 5 of 20

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 16 of 20
US 10,690,435 B2
1 2
BULLPUP CROSSBOW
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED
APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 15/594,411, filed May 12, 2017,
which is a continuation application of U.S. patent applica-
tion Ser. No. 14/704,619, filed May 5, 2015, which is a
continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/480,774, filed May 25, 2012, which claims the benefit of
U.S. Patent Application No. 61/489,727, filed May 25, 2011,
the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated
herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to bows and crossbows,
and more particularly to compact crossbows having a rela-
tively long power stroke.
Crossbows are generally known in the art. Crossbows
typically include a bow portion mounted on a stock, as well
as a string latch and release mechanism.
A crossbow string can be drawn and held in a drawn
condition by the string latch. The distance traversed between
the at-rest position of the string and the drawn position is
known as the draw length or power stroke. Crossbows
having a longer power stroke traditionally have also had a
longer overall length. There remains a need for novel
crossbow designs that provide benefits over the prior art.
There remains a need for shorter crossbows that have a
longer power stroke.
All US patents and applications and all other published
documents mentioned anywhere in this application are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Without limiting the scope of the invention a brief sum-
mary of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention
is set forth below. Additional details of the summarized
embodiments of the invention and/or additional embodi-
ments of the invention may be found in the Detailed
Description of the Invention below.
A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the speci-
fication is provided as well only for the purposes of com-
plying with 37 C.F.R. 1.72. The abstract is not intended to
be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock and
a bow portion comprising at least one limb and a string. A
riser attaches said bow portion to the stock. A latch is located
in proximity to a butt of the stock. The latch is configured to
retain the string in a drawn condition. A trigger is arranged
to release the latch. An extension member extends from the
butt of the stock to the latch. The extension member and the
stock define a cavity, and the latch assembly is oriented
within the cavity.
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock and
a bow portion comprising at least one limb and a string. A
riser attaches said bow portion to the stock. A latch is located
in proximity to a butt of the stock. The latch is configured to
retain the string in a drawn condition. A trigger is arranged
to release the latch. The butt of the stock comprises a rope
guide located at a rear end of the butt. In some embodiments,
the rope guide comprises a groove that is aligned with a
height of the latch.
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock and
a bow portion comprising at least one limb and a string. A
riser attaches said bow portion to the stock. A latch is located
in proximity to a butt of the stock. The latch is configured to
5 retain the string in a drawn condition. A trigger is arranged
to release the latch. The crossbow defines a sight mounting
location. The latch is centered in a lateral direction of the
crossbow, and a center of the sight mounting location is
offset laterally from the latch.
10
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a string
latch positioned substantially below a cheek rest or exten-
sion member of the buttstock. In some embodiments, the
string latch is partially surrounded by the buttstock and
15
cheek rest.
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a compound
bow portion having at least one continuous limb that extends
continuously between rotatable members of the compound
bow portion. In some embodiments, the bow portion com-
20 prises a pair of continuous limbs, and the crossbow is
arranged to shoot an arrow between the limbs.
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a rope
cocking guide located at a rear end of the buttstock. In some
embodiments, a rope cocking guide comprises a groove that
25 extends into the buttstock.
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a centered
string latch and a scope rail that is offset left or right from
a central axis of a barrel. In some embodiments, a portion of
the buttstock is offset left or right from a central axis of the
30 barrel. In some embodiments, a cheek rest is offset left or
right from a central axis of a barrel.
These and other embodiments which characterize the
invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims
annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a
35
better understanding of the invention, its advantages and
objectives obtained by its use, reference can be made to the
drawings which form a further part hereof and the accom-
panying descriptive matter, in which there are illustrated and
40 described various embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A detailed description of the invention is hereafter
45 described with specific reference being made to the draw-
ings.
FIG. 1 shows a side view of an embodiment of a cross-
bow.
FIG. 2 shows a rear upper perspective view of an embodi-
50 ment of a crossbow.
FIG. 3 shows a front upper perspective view of an
embodiment of a crossbow.
FIG. 4 shows a top view of an embodiment of a crossbow
in an undrawn condition.
55
FIG. 5 shows a top view of an embodiment of a crossbow
in a drawn condition.
FIG. 6 shows a rear quarter perspective view of an
embodiment of a crossbow.
60
FIG. 7 shows a rear quarter perspective view of another
embodiment of a crossbow.
FIG. 8 shows a side view of another embodiment of a
crossbow.
FIG. 9 shows a front view of an embodiment of a
65 crossbow.
FIG. 10 shows a side view of an embodiment of an
archery bow.
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 17 of 20
US 10,690,435 B2
3 4
FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an
archery bow.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
INVENTION
While this invention may be embodied in many different
forms, there are described in detail herein specific embodi-
ments of the invention. This description is an exemplifica-
tion of the principles of the invention and is not intended to
limit the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated.
For the purposes of this disclosure, like reference numer-
als in the figures shall refer to like features unless otherwise
indicated.
With reference to FIGS. 1-4, an embodiment of a cross-
bow 10 is shown comprising a bow portion 30, a barrel 14,
a stock 16, a latch 20 and a trigger 24. The bow portion 30
desirably comprises at least one limb 34 and a string 42. The
string 42 is generally pulled back using applied force, which
stores energy in the bow portion 30 (e.g. the limb 34), and
the string is retained in a cocked position by the latch 20
(FIGS. 5 and 6 show a crossbow 10 in a cocked orientation).
A release mechanism such as the trigger 24 will release the
string 42 from the latch 20, which will allow the crossbow
10 to fire an arrow or bolt.
An end of the stock 16 comprises a butt 17, which is
typically placed in contact with the shooter to brace the
crossbow 10 during a shot. Desirably, the string latch 20 is
located close to the butt 17 of the stock 16. Locating the
latch 20 close to the butt 17 helps to maximize power stroke.
Desirably, the latch 20 is located 6" or less from a rear end
12 of the crossbow 10. In some embodiments, the latch 20
is located 4" or less from the rear end 12. Desirably, a
distance between the latch 20 and the rear end 12 is less than
a distance between the latch 20 and the trigger 24. Desirably,
a distance between the latch 20 and the rear end 12, as
measured in a direction parallel to a central axis of the barrel
14 (e.g. distance 80 in FIG. 1), is less than a distance
between the latch 20 and the trigger 24 as measured in a
direction parallel to a central axis of the barrel 14 (e.g.
distance 82 in FIG. 1). In some embodiments, the latch 20
is located in the first half of a distance from the butt 17 to
the trigger 24 as measured in a direction parallel to a central
axis of the barrel 14 (e.g. distance 80 in FIG. 1 can be half
of distance 84 or less). In some embodiments, the latch 20
is located in the first third of a distance from the butt 17 to
the trigger 24 as measured in a direction parallel to a central
axis of the barrel 14 (e.g. distance 80 in FIG. 1 can be
one-third of distance 84 or less).
The trigger 24 communicates with the latch 20 via a
trigger mechanism (not shown). Trigger mechanisms are
generally known in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. No.
5,884,614 to Darlington and U.S. Pat. No. 4,693,228 to
Simonds each disclose suitable trigger mechanisms, and are
hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
Desirably, the trigger 24 is located 5" to 12" forward of
the latch 20 (e.g. distance 82 in FIG. 1 desirably ranges from
5" to 12"). In some embodiments, the trigger 24 is located
8" to 11" forward of the latch 20. In some embodiments, the
trigger 24 is located 9" to 10" forward of the latch 20.
In some embodiments, the trigger 24 is located approxi-
mately 12" to 14" forward of the rear end 12 of the crossbow
10 (e.g. distance 84 in FIG. 1 can be 12" to 14"). In some
embodiments, the trigger 24 is located approximately 13"
forward of the rear end 12 of the crossbow 10.
Although specific distances have been described with
respect to distances 80, 82, 84 in FIG. 1, the latch 20 and
trigger 24 can have any suitable orientation with respect to
one another, and each can have any suitable orientation with
respect to the rear end 12 of the crossbow 10.
In some embodiments, the crossbow 10 comprises an
5 extension member 48 that extends over the latch 20. The
extension member 48 is desirably structurally attached to the
stock 16. In some embodiments, the extension member 48
comprises an extension of the butt 17 or the stock 16. In
some embodiments, at least a portion of the extension
10 member 48 extends over a portion of the barrel 14. In some
embodiments, at least a portion of the extension member 48
comprises a cantilever member that extends over a portion
of the barrel 14. Desirably, the extension member 48 extends
over the latch 20. In some embodiments, a portion of the
15 extension member 48 oriented over the latch 20 comprises
a cantilever. Desirably the extension member 48 comprises
a mount for various accessories or other portions of the
crossbow 10, such as a cheek rest 50, accessory mount 60,
etc.
20 In some embodiments, the crossbow 10 comprises a
cheek rest 50. A cheek rest 50 can be permanent or remov-
able. In some embodiments, the cheek rest comprises a pad.
In some embodiments, a cheek rest 50 is supported by the
extension member 48. In some embodiments, the cheek rest
25 50 is a unitary portion of the extension member 48.
Desirably, at least a portion of the cheek rest 50 is oriented
above the latch 20 (e.g. directly above the latch 20). Desir-
ably, a cheek rest 50 is oriented with respect to the butt 17
such that a shooter's cheek can easily rest against the cheek
30 rest 50 when the crossbow 10 is held with the butt 17 braced
against the shooter's body (e.g. shoulder). In some embodi-
ments, the cheek rest 50 extends rearward to the rear end 12
of the crossbow 10. In some embodiments, the cheek rest 50
extends forward of the latch 20.
35 In some embodiments, the latch 20 is at least partially
surrounded by the cheek rest 50, butt 17 and stock 16
portions of the crossbow 10. In some embodiments, the latch
20 is at least partially surrounded by the cheek rest 50, butt
17 and a portion of the barrel 14 (e.g. rear portion). In some
40 embodiments, the latch 20 is at least partially surrounded by
the extension member 48, butt 17 and stock 16 portions of
the crossbow 10. In some embodiments, the latch 20 is at
least partially surrounded by the extension member 48, butt
17 and a portion of the barrel 14 (e.g. rear portion). In some
45 embodiments, the stock 16 and extension member 48 define
a cavity 58. In some embodiments, a rear portion of the
barrel 14 and the extension member 48 define a cavity 58.
In some embodiments, the latch 20 is located in the cavity
58.
50 In some embodiments, a lowest portion of the extension
member 48 oriented above or in front of the latch 20 is
located at a height above the latch 20. For example, the
cavity 58 can extend forward of the latch 20. This helps to
ensure that the extension member 48 will not interfere with
55 the string 42.
In some embodiments, the extension member 48 com-
prises a front guide portion 64 that can help guide the string
42 toward the latch 20 during draw, should the string 42
contact the extension member 48. In some embodiments, the
60 front guide portion 64 comprises a straight edge that extends
nonparallel to an axis of the barrel 14. In some embodi-
ments, a front guide portion 64 can include curvature.
In some embodiments, a cheek rest 50 comprises an
overhanging portion 52 that overhangs a portion of the
65 barrel 14 and/or a portion of the stock 16. In some embodi-
ments, the cheek rest 50 is wider than the stock 16. An
overhanging portion 52 can be located on either side of the
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 18 of 20
US 10,690,435 B2
5 6
crossbow 10. An overhanging portion 52 located on the left
side of the crossbow 10 will be suitable for a right-handed
shooter, and vice versa. In some embodiments, a cheek rest
50 comprises an overhanging portion 52 on both the right
and left sides, allowing use by both right-handed and left-
handed shooters. In some embodiments, the cheek rest 50 is
symmetrical across a vertical plane that passes through the
barrel 14 axis.
FIG. 5 shows a top view of an embodiment of a crossbow
10 in a cocked orientation. This view illustrates how an
overhanging portion 52 of the cheek rest 50 can act as a
barrier between a shooter's face and the string 42, thereby
helping to prevent the string 42 from contacting the shoot-
er's face inadvertently. The overhanging portion 52 can also
help to prevent the string 42 from contacting long facial hair
of the shooter.
The cheek rest 50 is desirably located at least one inch
above the latch 20. In some embodiments, the cheek rest 50
is located anywhere from one-half inch above the latch 20 to
more than 3" above the latch 20. In some embodiments, the
cheek rest 50 is located approximately 2" above the latch 20.
The cheek rest 50 can have any suitable length. In some
embodiments, the cheek rest 50 has a length of 6" to 8".
In some embodiments, a lowest portion of the cheek rest
50 is located at a height above the latch 20. For example, the
lowest portion of an overhanging portion 52 is located at a
height above the height of the latch 20. This provides
clearance for the string 42 and archer during cocking, and
prevents the cheek rest 50 from interfering with a cocking
operation. FIG. 6 shows a rear perspective view where the
clearance can be seen.
In some embodiments, a rear arrow retention spring 26 is
located in proximity to the latch 20. In some embodiments,
at least a portion of the rear arrow retention spring 26 is
located under a cheek rest 50. In some embodiments, the rear
arrow retention spring 26 is supported by structure that
supports the cheek rest 50, for example being supported by
the extension member 48.
In some embodiments, the extension member 48 defines
an accessory mounting location 60. In some embodiments,
the extension member comprises an accessory mount 61
configured to receive standardized accessories, such as a
Picatinny rail or tactical rail. Any suitable accessory, such as
sights, optics, lights, etc., can be mounted at the accessory
mounting location 60. Desirably, the accessory mounting
location 60 is oriented forward of a cheek rest 50 and at a
height above the cheek rest 50, which allows for sights/
scopes to be properly placed at eye level when a shooter's
face contacts the cheek rest 50.
In some embodiments, the butt 17 or rear stock 16 defines
an aperture 22 that extends through the butt 17 in a direction
parallel to the axis of the barrel 14 (See e.g. FIGS. 2 and 6).
Desirably, at least a portion of the aperture 22 is aligned with
the latch 20 in a longitudinal direction of the crossbow 10.
In some embodiments, the butt 17 comprises a U-shaped
member that defines a large aperture 22.
In some embodiments, the butt 17 comprises a continuous
rear surface. In some embodiments, the butt 17 defines at
least one rope guide 23. In some embodiments, a rope guide
23 comprises at least one groove in the buttstock 17.
Desirably, the groove is of a sufficient depth and shape to
securely retain a cocking rope. In some embodiments, a rope
guide 23 extends into the rear end 12 of the crossbow 10.
Desirably, the rope guides 23 are located at a height that is
aligned with the latch 20 in a longitudinal direction of the
crossbow 10 (e.g. aligned with an arrow shooting plane).
The rope guides 23 will help to hold a cocking rope in proper
alignment with the latch 20 during a string 42 drawing
operation. In some embodiments, a rope guide 23 is located
in a middle portion of the height of the rear end 12 of the butt
17. In some embodiments, a rope guide 23 is substantially
5 centered midway up the height of the rear end 12 of the butt
17. In some embodiments, a rope guide 23 is located
between the midpoint and upper quarter of the height of the
rear end 12 of the butt 17.
The bow portion 30 can comprise any suitable bow
10 arrangement, for example comprising a recurve bow portion,
a compound bow portion, etc. A compound bow portion will
be more complicated, but will provide for reduced string 42
hold-back force, thus reducing loads on the latch 20 and
wear on the string 42. A compound bow portion can com-
15 prise any suitable type of compound bow arrangement, such
as single cam, two-cam, 1.5/hybrid/CPS cam, etc. A com-
pound bow portion can further comprise a dual-sync
arrangement as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,990,970, or a
force vectoring anchor arrangement as disclosed in U.S. Pat.
20 No. 8,020,544. The entire disclosures of U.S. Pat. Nos.
6,990,970, 8,020,544 and US 2010/0000504 are hereby
incorporated herein by reference.
A compound bow portion typically includes a first rotat-
able member 36 and a second rotatable member 38. At least
25 one of said rotatable members 36, 38 comprises a cam. In
some embodiments, one of said rotatable members 36, 38
can be a pulley, for example in the case of a single cam bow.
In some embodiments, each of said rotatable members 36,
38 comprises a cam. In some embodiments, the rotatable
30 members 36, 38 are geometrically similar in shape. In some
embodiments, a second rotatable member 38 comprises a
mirror image of a first rotatable member 36.
FIGS. 1-6 show a bow portion 30 that comprises a
dual-cam compound bow. As such, each rotatable member
35 36, 38 comprises a cam, and the bow portion 30 comprises
two power cables 40, wherein each power cable 40 is taken
up by a cam as the string 42 is drawn. The string 42 desirably
extends from the first rotatable member 36 to the second
rotatable member 38.
40 With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, desirably the crossbow
10 comprises a riser 32 that attaches the limb(s) 34 to the
crossbow 10, for example attaching to a front portion of the
stock 16, to the barrel 14, or another suitable portion of the
crossbow 10. In some embodiments, the riser 32 is attached
45 to the crossbow 10 by a rigid moment connection. In some
embodiments, the riser 32 is attached to a limb 34 by a rigid
moment connection.
In some embodiments, a bow portion 30 comprises at
least one limb 34 that extends continuously from the first
50 rotatable member 36 to the second rotatable member 38. In
some embodiments, the bow portion 30 comprises a second
limb 34b that extends continuously between the rotatable
members 36, 38. In some embodiments, a first continuous
limb 34 is identical to a second continuous limb 34b.
55 In some embodiments, the rotatable members 36, 38 are
oriented between a first continuous limb 34 and a second
continuous limb 34b. For example, in some embodiments,
an axle 35 can extend between the first limb 34 and second
limb 34b, and the rotatable member 36 can be supported on
60 the axle 35 between the limbs 34, 34b.
In some embodiments, the crossbow 10 is arranged such
that the arrow passes between a first continuous limb 34 and
a second continuous limb 34b. Desirably, the limbs 34, 34b
are spaced to allow an arrow to freely pass between the
65 limbs 34, 34b without contact. In some embodiments, the
riser 32 comprises an aperture for an arrow or bolt to pass
through when the crossbow 10 is fired.
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US 10,690,435 B2
7 8
When the bow portion 30 comprises continuous limb 34
spanning between the rotatable members 36, 38, a moment
transferring connection is not required between the riser 32
and limb 34, but can be used if desired. Thus, in some
embodiments, a continuous limb 34 can be attached to the
crossbow 10 (e.g. to the riser 32) via a single fastener, such
as a bolt. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the limbs 34 are
sandwiched between the riser 32 and a plate 33. A plate 33
can help to distribute loads and can be visually appealing. In
some embodiments, a separate plate could be used on each
limb 34, 34b. In some embodiments, a single plate 33 can be
used. In some embodiments, a plate 33 comprises an aper-
ture 37 for an arrow or bolt to pass through when the
crossbow 10 is fired.
In some embodiments, a continuous limb 34 can be
concave (for example being concave with respect to the
latch 20). As shown in the Figures (e.g FIGS. 2 and 3), a
continuous limb 34 can include both concave and convex
portions, and can include one or more inflection points.
In some embodiments, the crossbow 10 comprises a front
arrow retention spring 27, which is desirably located to help
retain an arrow in/on the barrel 14. In some embodiments, a
front arrow retention spring 27 is aligned longitudinally with
the rotatable members 36, 38 and power cable(s) 40. The
front arrow retention spring 27 can attach to any suitable
portion of the crossbow 10. In some embodiments, the front
arrow retention spring 27 is attached to the riser 32.
Desirably, the barrel 14 defines a central axis that is
centered in the crossbow 10. Desirably, the latch 20 is also
centered. In some embodiments, the crossbow 10 comprises
a cheek rest 50 that extends to the left or right beyond the
stock 16 or rear portion of the barrel 14. The extended cheek
rest 50 helps to position the shooter's face farther away from
the string 42 during a shot.
In some embodiments, the accessory mounting location
60 can be offset to the left or right of the barrel 14 axis. In
some embodiments, at least a portion of the extension
member 48 is offset to the left or right of the barrel 14 axis.
In some embodiments, the entire butt 17, extension member
48 and accessory mounting location 60 can be offset to the
left or right of the barrel 14 axis. These embodiments can
have any suitable amount oflateral offset. In some embodi-
ments, the offset ranges from 0.5'' to 2" or more (e.g. a
centerline of 60, 48 and/or 17 can be offset this far from a
center of the crossbow 10).
FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of a crossbow 10 having a
first buttstock 17, first extension member 48 and first acces-
sory location 60 offset to the left of center of the crossbow.
FIG. 7 further shows a second buttstock 17b, second exten-
sion member 48b and second accessory location 60b offset
to the right of center of the crossbow. The crossbow 10
shown in FIG. 7 would be suitable for shooting by both
left-handed and right-handed shooters. It should be noted
that a crossbow 10 intended only for a right-handed shooter
could omit the second buttstock 17b, second extension
member 48b and second accessory location 60b, and vice
versa. In some other embodiments, a buttstock 17 and
extension member 48 can be made the collective size of both
the first and second buttstocks 17, 17b and the first and
second extension members 48, 48b shown in FIG. 7, and can
have a single aperture 22.
Referring to FIG. 8, in some embodiments, a crossbow 10
comprises a front accessory mounting location 66. In some
embodiments, a front accessory mounting location 66 com-
prises a front accessory mount 67 configured to receive
standardized accessories, such as a Picatinny rail or tactical
rail. Any suitable accessory, such as lights, grips, quivers,
etc., can be mounted at the front accessory mounting loca-
tion 66.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a front
5 grip 70. In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a
foot stirrup 72. In some embodiments, a stirrup can extend
as a slightly downward angle 73 (see FIG. 1). A stirrup 72
can further include an offset portion that extends farther
downward from the rest of the stirrup 72 (see e.g. FIGS. 3
10 and 6).
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a front
accessory 74 that comprises both a shaped grip 70 and a foot
stirrup 72. In some embodiments, the shaped grip 70 com-
prises a lower flange 71 to help locate a shooter's hand as
15 they grasp the grip 70, and prevent downward migration of
the hand. Desirably, the front accessory 74 is arranged to
rotate such that the grip 70 can be oriented to extend
downward for grasping during a shot. The accessory 74 can
be moved such that the stirrup 72 will be properly oriented
20 for a cocking operation (see position A in FIG. 8). In some
embodiments, the accessory 74 can also be folded into a
reduced size/storage configuration (see position B in FIG.
8). In some embodiments, the accessory 74 can further
include a hinge (not shown), for example at location X
25 shown in FIG. 8, which can allow for a more compact
storage position.
FIG. 9 shows a front view of an embodiment of a
crossbow 10. This view best illustrates a groove 15 that
desirably extends down a length of the barrel 14. Desirably,
30 the groove 15 is sized such that an arrow or bolt is properly
located when placed upon the barrel 14. Desirably, the
groove 15 provides clearance for fletching or other stabiliz-
ers of an arrow or bolt.
Although this disclosure has focused on crossbow 10
35 embodiments, the bow portion 30 described herein can also
be used on traditional archery bows. FIGS. 10 and 11 show
an embodiment of a bow portion 30 configured for use as an
archery bow 11. An archery bow 11 can comprise a riser 88
that includes a grip 90. In some embodiments, the riser 88
40 can also support a string stop 92. In some embodiments, the
riser 88 can also support a cable guard 94. The archery bow
11 is configured such that arrows pass between the limbs 34,
34b and an aperture in the riser 88.
The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not
45 exhaustive. This description will suggest many variations
and alternatives to one of ordinary skill in this field of art.
All these alternatives and variations are intended to be
included within the scope of the claims where the term
"comprising" means "including, but not limited to." Those
50 familiar with the art may recognize other equivalents to the
specific embodiments described herein which equivalents
are also intended to be encompassed by the claims.
Further, the particular features presented in the dependent
claims can be combined with each other in other manners
55 within the scope of the invention such that the invention
should be recognized as also specifically directed to other
embodiments having any other possible combination of the
features of the dependent claims. For instance, for purposes
of claim publication, any dependent claim which follows
60 should be taken as alternatively written in a multiple depen-
dent form from all prior claims which possess all anteced-
ents referenced in such dependent claim if such multiple
dependent format is an accepted format within the jurisdic-
tion (e.g. each claim depending directly from claim 1 should
65 be alternatively taken as depending from all previous
claims). In jurisdictions where multiple dependent claim
formats are restricted, the following dependent claims
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-6 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 20 of 20
US 10,690,435 B2
9 10
should each be also taken as alternatively written in each
singly dependent claim format which creates a dependency
from a prior antecedent-possessing claim other than the
specific claim listed in such dependent claim below.
This completes the description of the preferred and alter-
nate embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiment
described herein which equivalents are intended to be
encompassed by the claims attached hereto.
The invention claimed is:
1. A crossbow comprising:
a stock;
a bow portion attached to the stock, the bow portion
comprising at least one limb and a string;
a latch configured to retain said string in a drawn condi-
tion;
a trigger arranged to release said latch;
a handgrip in proximity to the trigger;
a butt located rearward of the latch, the butt spaced apart
from the handgrip; and
an extension member positioned above said stock, the
extension member comprising a cheek rest and a pica-
tinny rail, a height of the cheek rest above the stock
being less than a height of the picatinny rail above the
stock, the cheek rest shaped differently from the pica-
tinny rail, the extension member and the stock defining
a cavity, the latch positioned in the cavity.
2. The crossbow of claim 1, at least a portion of said cheek
rest oriented over said latch.
3. The crossbow of claim 1, said latch located in a first
half of a distance from a butt end of said stock to said trigger.
4. The crossbow of claim 3, wherein said latch is located
in a first third of said distance.
5. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein said extension
member comprises a cantilever extending over said latch,
said cantilever supported by said stock.
6. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein said cheek rest is
5 wider than said picatinny rail.
7. The crossbow of claim 1, said cheek rest comprising a
laterally extending portion that overhangs said stock.
8. The crossbow of claim 7, wherein said laterally extend-
ing portion comprises a first laterally extending portion that
10 overhangs said stock on a first side, and the cheek rest
further comprises a second laterally extending portion that
overhangs said stock on a second side.
9. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein said cheek rest
extends forward of said latch.
15 10. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the picatinny rail
comprises an accessory mounting location oriented forward
of said cheek rest and arranged to properly place a scope
with respect to the cheek rest.
11. The crossbow of claim 1, the bow portion comprising
20 a first rotating member and a second rotating member.
12. The crossbow of claim 11, the string attached between
the first rotating member and the second rotating member.
13. The crossbow of claim 12, in a ready-to-fire orienta-
tion, said string comprising a first location, a second location
25 and a segment therebetween, said first location engaged with
the first rotating member, said second location contacting
said latch, said segment defining a straight line extending
from said first location to said second location.
14. The crossbow of claim 1, comprising a front accessory
30 comprising a combined front grip and foot stirrup.
15. The crossbow of claim 1, said cheek rest comprising
a peak.
* * * * *
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EXHIBIT 7
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-7 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 11
I 1111111111111111 1111111111 111111111111111 1111111111 111111111111111 IIII IIII
USO 10480893B2

c12) United States Patent (IO) Patent No.: US 10,480,893 B2

McPherson (45) Date of Patent: Nov. 19, 2019

(54) CROSSBOW WITH STOCK OVERLAP 4,766,874 A * 8/1988 Nishioka ................... F41B 5/12
124/25
(71) Applicant: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 4,879,987 A * 11/1989 Nishioka ................. F41B 5/123
124/25
(72) Inventor: Mathew A. McPherson, Norwalk, WI 5,678,528 A * 10/1997 Hadley ..................... F41B 5/12
(US) 124/24.1
7,743,760 B2 * 6/2010 Woodland ............. F41B 5/0094
124/25
(73) Assignee: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 7,891,348 B2 * 2/2011 Colley .................... F41B 5/123
124/25
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term ofthis 8,387,604 Bl* 3/2013 Terzo ...................... F41B 5/123
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 124/23.1
U.S.C. 154(b) by O days. 8,522,762 B2 * 9/2013 Trpkovski ............. F41B 5/0094
124/25.6
(21) Appl. No.: 15/934,865 8,607,773 Bl* 12/2013 Schultz ................... F41B 5/123
124/25
(22) Filed: Mar. 23, 2018 9,255,753 B2 * 2/2016 Pulkrabek ............... F41B 5/105
9,297,604 Bl* 3/2016 Sidebottom ............. F41B 5/123
9,377,267 Bl* 6/2016 Kempf .................... F41B 5/105
(65) Prior Publication Data
9,383,159 B2 * 7/2016 Pulkrabek ............. F41B 5/1469
US 2018/0274878 Al Sep. 27, 2018 9,389,041 B2 * 7/2016 Novikov ................... F41B 7/00
9,494,379 B2 * 11/2016 Yehle ...................... F41B 5/105
Related U.S. Application Data 9,513,080 Bl * 12/2016 Kempf .................... F41B 5/123
9,719,749 Bl * 8/2017 Prior ..................... F41B 5/0094
(60) Provisional application No. 62/476,583, filed on Mar. 9,921,026 Bl* 3/2018 Anderson ............. F41B 5/1469
24, 2017. (Continued)
(51) Int. Cl.
Primary Examiner - Alexander R Niconovich
F41B 5112 (2006.01)
F41C 23100 (2006.01)
(52) U.S. Cl. (57) ABSTRACT
CPC .............. F41B 51123 (2013.01); F41C 23100
(2013.01) In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock, a fire
control assembly and a bow portion. In some embodiments,
( 58) Field of Classification Search
CPC ............. F41B 5/105; F41B 5/12; F41B 5/123 the bow portion comprises a prod, a first limb, a second limb,
USPC .................................................... 124/25, 900 a first rotatable member and a second rotatable member. The
See application file for complete search history. crossbow comprises a drawn orientation wherein the first
rotatable member overlaps with the stock. In some embodi-
(56) References Cited ments, a reference line oriented orthogonal to a shooting axis
intersects the stock and the first rotatable member. In some
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS embodiments, the reference line is parallel to a rotation axis
of the first rotatable member.
3,486,495 A 12/1969 Allen
4,722,317 A * 2/1988 Hartwig .................... F41B 5/10
124/25.6 19 Claims, 5 Drawing Sheets
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-7 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 11

US 10,480,893 B2
Page 2

(56) References Cited

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

2011/0041820 Al* 2/2011 Stanziale ................ F41B 5/105

124/25
2011/0056467 Al* 3/2011 Popov ................... F41B 5/0094
124/25.6
2012/0125302 Al* 5/2012 Stanziale ................ F41B 5/123
124/25
2013/0312724 Al* 11/2013 Hudkins ................. F41B 5/123
124/25
2017/0160042 Al* 6/2017 Yehle ...................... F41B 5/123
2018/0051954 Al* 2/2018 Yehle ...................... F41B 5/066
2018/0172394 Al * 6/2018 Trpkovski ................. F41B 5/12
* cited by examiner
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-7 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 11

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-7 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 9 of 11
US 10,480,893 B2
1 2
CROSSBOW WITH STOCK OVERLAP
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED
APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Appli-
cation No. 62/476,583, filed Mar. 24, 2017, the entire
content of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to crossbows and more
specifically to compound crossbows having rotating mem-
bers.
Crossbows are generally known in the art. It can be
desirable to minimize the physical dimensions of a cross-
bow, provided that the crossbow delivers suitable firing,
speed and longevity characteristics.
Traditionally, crossbows have been relatively wide
because an archery bow is positioned across a stock. A width
dimension of the crossbow can be related to the size of the
bow portion of the crossbow. For example, a limb tip to limb
tip dimension for non-compound crossbows, and an axle-
to-axle dimension for compound crossbows can be related to
the width of the crossbow.
There remains a need for novel crossbow designs that
provide for smaller external crossbow dimensions while still
delivering suitable performance characteristics.
All US patents and applications and all other published
documents mentioned anywhere in this application are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Without limiting the scope of the invention a brief sum-
mary of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention
is set forth below. Additional details of the summarized
embodiments of the invention and/or additional embodi-
ments of the invention may be found in the Detailed
Description of the Invention below.
A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the speci-
fication is provided as well only for the purposes of com-
plying with 37 C.F.R. 1.72. The abstract is not intended to
be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock, a
fire control assembly and a bow portion. In some embodi-
ments, the bow portion comprises a prod, a first limb, a
second limb, a first rotatable member and a second rotatable
member. The crossbow comprises a drawn orientation
wherein the first rotatable member overlaps with the stock.
In some embodiments, a reference line oriented orthogonal
to a shooting axis intersects the stock and the first rotatable
member. In some embodiments, the reference line is parallel
to a rotation axis of the first rotatable member.
In some embodiments, a distance between the first rotat-
able member and the second rotatable member in the drawn
condition is less than a width of the stock.
In some embodiments, a portion of the first rotatable
member passes through a sidewall of the stock.
In some embodiments, the stock comprising a single piece
of material.
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock and
a bow portion comprising a rotatable member, and the
rotatable member overlaps with the stock.
These and other embodiments which characterize the
invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims
annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a
better understanding of the invention, its advantages and
objectives obtained by its use, reference can be made to the
drawings which form a further part hereof and the accom-
parrying descriptive matter, in which there are illustrated and
5 described various embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A detailed description of the invention is hereafter
10 described with specific reference being made to the draw-
ings.
FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a crossbow.
FIG. 2 shows a top view of the crossbow of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 shows the crossbow of FIG. 1 in a drawn orien-
15
tation.
FIG. 4 shows a top view of the crossbow of FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 shows a detail of the crossbow as shown in FIG.
3.
20
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
INVENTION
While this invention may be embodied in many different
25 forms, there are described in detail herein specific embodi-
ments of the invention. This description is an exemplifica-
tion of the principles of the invention and is not intended to
limit the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated.
For the purposes of this disclosure, like reference numer-
30 als in the figures shall refer to like features unless otherwise
indicated.
FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of a crossbow 10 in
an undrawn or brace condition.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a stock
35 20, a trigger 12, a latch 14 and a bow portion 30. Desirably,
the bow portion 30 comprises a bowstring 18, and the
crossbow 10 stores energy as the bowstring 18 is drawn.
Desirably, the bowstring 18 can be retained in a drawn
configuration by the latch 14. Desirably, the trigger 12 is
40 arranged to cause the latch 14 to release the bowstring 18
upon actuation of the trigger 12.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 30 comprises a
prod 32. In some embodiments, the prod 32 is attached to the
stock 20. In some embodiments, the prod 32 supports a first
45 limb 40 and a second limb 42, and the limbs 40, 42 are
arranged to flex and store energy as the bowstring 18 is
drawn. In some embodiments, the prod 32 supports a limb
cup 34, and the limb cup 34 supports a limb 40.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 30 comprises a
50 first rotatable member 50 and a second rotatable member 52.
In some embodiments, the first limb 40 supports the first
rotatable member 50 and the second limb 42 supports the
second rotatable member 52. Desirably, the first rotatable
member 50 is arranged to rotate about a first rotation axis 51,
55 and the second rotatable member is arranged to rotate about
a second rotation axis 53. In some embodiments, a limb 40,
42 supports an axle 54, and a rotatable member 50, 52 is
rotatably mounted upon the axle 54.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 30 comprises a
60 compound bow. In some embodiments, a rotatable member
50 comprises a cam 56. In some embodiments, the bow
portion 30 comprises a power cable 60 that is arranged to be
taken up on the cam 56 as the bowstring 18 is drawn.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 30 can comprise
65 any suitable type of compound bow, such as a single cam
bow, a cam-and-a-halfbow, a two cam bow, etc. FIGS.1 and
2 show an embodiment of a two cam bow, wherein the
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-7 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 10 of 11
US 10,480,893 B2
3 4
power cable 60 is a first power cable 60 and the bow portion
30 further comprises a second power cable 62.
In some embodiments, as the bowstring 18 is drawn, the
limbs 40, 42 flex and the rotation axes 51, 53 of the rotatable
members 50, 52 move inward, for example in a direction
toward the shooting axis 16. In some embodiments, a
distance between the first rotation axis 51 and the second
rotation axis 53 decreases as the bowstring 18 is drawn.
In some embodiments, the stock 20 comprises a first side
surface 24 and a second side surface 26. In some embodi-
ments, each side surface 24, 26 comprises a plurality of
apertures 28. In some embodiments, the first side surface 24
extends parallel to the second side surface 26. In some
embodiments, a width of the stock 20 comprises a distance
between the first side surface 24 and the second side surface
26.
FIGS. 3-5 show the crossbow 10 of FIG. 1 in a drawn
condition, wherein the latch 14 is engaged with the bow-
string 18, and the crossbow 10 is retained in a drawn
orientation.
In some embodiments, the rotatable members 50, 52
move inward during draw. In some embodiments, at least
one rotatable member 50, 52 overlaps with the stock 20
during at least a portion of a draw cycle. In some embodi-
ments, each rotatable member 50, 52 overlaps with the stock
20 during at least a portion of the draw cycle.
In some embodiments, the stock 20 defines a width
dimension, and one or more rotatable members 50, 52
overlaps with the width dimension during at least a portion
of the draw cycle. In some embodiments, the first side 24 of
the stock 20 defines a plane, and a portion of the first
rotatable member 50 is oriented in the plane during at least
a portion of the draw cycle. In some embodiments, the
second side 26 of the stock 20 defines a plane, and a portion
of the second rotatable member 52 is oriented in the plane
during at least a portion of the draw cycle.
In some embodiments, a distance between the first rotat-
able member 50 and the second rotatable member 52 is less
than the width of the stock 20. In some embodiments, the
distance comprises the shortest distance between the rotat-
able members 50, 52.
In some embodiments, the stock 20 comprises an aperture
28, and a portion of a rotatable member 50, 52 is oriented in
the aperture 28 during at least a portion of the draw cycle.
In some embodiments, the first side 24 of the stock 20
comprises an aperture 28, and a portion of the first rotatable
member 50 is oriented in the aperture 28 during at least a
portion of the draw cycle. In some embodiments, the second
side 26 of the stock 20 comprises an aperture 28, and a
portion of the second rotatable member 52 is oriented in the
aperture 28 during at least a portion of the draw cycle.
In some embodiments, a rotatable member 50, 52 com-
prises a bowstring track 68. In some embodiments, a bow-
string track 68 extends around an outer periphery of a
rotatable member 50, 52. In some embodiments, a portion of
the bowstring track 68 overlaps with the stock 20 during at
least a portion of the draw cycle. In some embodiments, a
portion of the bowstring track 68 extends through a sidewall
24 of the stock 20. In some embodiments, a portion of a
bowstring track 68 is oriented in an aperture 28 in the stock
20.
In some embodiments, a reference line 46 (see FIGS. 4
and 5) arranged to intersect the stock 20 will also intersect
a rotatable member 50, 52 during at least a portion of the
draw cycle. In some embodiments, the reference line 46 is
oriented orthogonal to the shooting axis 16. In some embodi-
ments, the reference line 46 is oriented orthogonal to a
length of the stock 20. In some embodiments, the reference
line 46 is oriented vertically when the shooting axis 16 is
oriented horizontally. In some embodiments, the reference
line 46 is oriented parallel to a side (e.g. 24, 26) of the stock
5 20. In some embodiments, the reference line 46 is oriented
parallel a rotation axis 51, 53.
In some embodiments, the stock 20 comprises a cavity,
blind hole or the like, and a portion of a rotatable member
50, 52 is oriented in the cavity during at least a portion of the
10 draw cycle.
In some embodiments, a distance between the shooting
axis 16 and a side 24, 26 of the stock 20 is greater than a
distance between the shooting axis 16 and a rotating member
50, 52.
15 In some embodiments, the stock 20 as discussed herein
comprises a structural member of the crossbow 10. In some
embodiments, the stock 20 is placed into compression when
the crossbow 10 is cocked. In some embodiments, compres-
sion and/or bending forces are applied to the stock 20 by the
20 bow portion 30 between a first portion or location 70 of the
stock 20 and a second portion or location 71 of the stock 20.
In some embodiments, the first portion 70 comprises a
location where the prod 32 is attached to the stock 20. In
some embodiments, the second portion 71 comprises a
25 location where a fire control assembly 76 is attached to the
stock 20. The first control assembly 76 can comprise the
latch 14, which receives forces from the bowstring 18, and
the fire control assembly 76 transfers forces to the stock 20.
In some embodiments, the overlap between the stock 20 and
30 the rotatable members 50, 52 is located along a length of the
stock 20 between the first portion 70 and the second portion
71. In some embodiments, the stock 20 comprises a single
piece of material having a portion extending between the
first portion 70 and the second portion 71.
35 In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a
handgrip 72, finger guards 74 or other similar components,
and these components are supported by the stock 20 but are
not considered to be a part of the stock 20 for the purposes
of overlap discussed herein. In some embodiments, the stock
40 20 comprises a structural component of the crossbow 10 that
comprises a single piece of material.
The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not
exhaustive. This description will suggest many variations
and alternatives to one of ordinary skill in this field of art.
45 All these alternatives and variations are intended to be
included within the scope of the claims where the term
"comprising" means "including, but not limited to." Those
familiar with the art may recognize other equivalents to the
specific embodiments described herein which equivalents
50 are also intended to be encompassed by the claims.
Further, the particular features presented in the dependent
claims can be combined with each other in other manners
within the scope of the invention such that the invention
should be recognized as also specifically directed to other
55 embodiments having any other possible combination of the
features of the dependent claims. For instance, for purposes
of claim publication, any dependent claim which follows
should be taken as alternatively written in a multiple depen-
dent form from all prior claims which possess all anteced-
60 ents referenced in such dependent claim if such multiple
dependent format is an accepted format within the jurisdic-
tion (e.g. each claim depending directly from claim 1 should
be alternatively taken as depending from all previous
claims). In jurisdictions where multiple dependent claim
65 formats are restricted, the following dependent claims
should each be also taken as alternatively written in each
singly dependent claim format which creates a dependency
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-7 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 11 of 11
US 10,480,893 B2
5 6
from a prior antecedent-possessing claim other than the
specific claim listed in such dependent claim below.
This completes the description of the preferred and alter-
nate embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiment
described herein which equivalents are intended to be
encompassed by the claims attached hereto.
The invention claimed is:
1. A crossbow comprising:
a stock comprising a structural portion;
a fire control assembly attached to the stock;
a bow portion attached to the stock, the bow portion
comprising a prod, a first limb, a second limb, a
bowstring segment, a first rotatable member and a
second rotatable member, the bowstring segment
arranged to unspool from the first rotatable member and
the second rotatable member as the crossbow is drawn·
the crossbow comprising a drawn orientation wherein th~
first rotatable member overlaps with the structural
portion of the stock and a portion of the first rotatable
member passes through a sidewall of the stock.
2. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein a reference line
oriented orthogonal to a shooting axis intersects the stock
and the first rotatable member.
3. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the first rotatable
member overlaps with the stock.
4. The crossbow of claim 3, wherein a distance between
the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member
in the drawn condition is less than a width of the stock.
5. The crossbow of claim 1, the sidewall comprising an
aperture, a portion of the first rotatable member oriented in
the aperture.
6. The crossbow of claim 1, comprising a non-drawn
orientation wherein the first rotatable member does not
overlap with the stock.
7. The crossbow of claim 1, the stock comprising a single
piece of material.
8. The crossbow of claim 1, the stock comprising a
structural component of the crossbow that receives applied
forces from the bow portion at a first location and a second
location.
5 9. The crossbow of claim 8, the first location comprising
an attachment between the prod and the stock.
10. The crossbow of claim 9, the second location com-
prising an attachment between the first fire control assembly
and the stock.
11. A crossbow comprising:
10
a stock comprising a structural portion,
a bow portion comprising a rotatable member and a
bowstring segment arranged to unspool from the rotat-
able member as the crossbow is drawn·
15
wherein the rotatable member overlaps with the structural
portion of the stock and a portion of the first rotatable
member passes through a sidewall of the stock.
12. The crossbow of claim 11, wherein a side of the stock
defines a plane, and a portion of the rotatable member is
20
oriented in the plane.
13. The crossbow of claim 11, wherein a side of the stock
comprises an aperture, and a portion of the rotatable member
is oriented in the aperture.
14. The crossbow of claim 11, wherein a side of the stock
25
comprises a cavity, and a portion of the rotatable member is
oriented in the cavity.
15. The crossbow of claim 11, wherein a reference line
intersects the stock and the rotatable member.
16. The crossbow of claim 15, wherein the reference line
30
is oriented orthogonal to a shooting axis of the crossbow.
17. The crossbow of claim 15, wherein the reference line
is oriented parallel to a rotation axis of the rotatable member.
18. The crossbow of claim 11, the stock comprising a
single piece of material.
35 19. The crossbow of claim 11, the bow portion comprising
a limb, the rotatable member supported by the limb.
* * * * *
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-8 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 11

EXHIBIT 8
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-8 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 11
I 1111111111111111 1111111111 1111111111 1111111111 1111111111 lll111111111111111
USO 10866056B2

c12) United States Patent (IO) Patent No.: US 10,866,056 B2

McPherson (45) Date of Patent: Dec. 15, 2020

(54) CROSSBOW WITH STOCK OVERLAP 4,879,987 A * 11/1989 Nishioka ................. F41B 5/123
124/25
(71) Applicant: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 5,678,528 A * 10/1997 Hadley ..................... F41B 5/12
124/24.1
(72) Inventor: Mathew A. McPherson, Norwalk, WI 7,743,760 B2 * 6/2010 Woodland ............. F41B 5/1469
(US) 124/25.6
7,891,348 B2 * 2/2011 Colley .................... F41B 5/123
124/25
(73) Assignee: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 8,387,604 Bl* 3/2013 Terzo ...................... F41B 5/123
124/25.6
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term ofthis 8,522,762 B2 * 9/2013 Trpkovski ................. F41B 5/10
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 124/25.6
U.S.C. 154(b) by O days. 8,607,773 Bl* 12/2013 Schultz . .................... F41B 7/00
124/25
(21) Appl. No.: 16/688,957 9,255,753 B2 * 2/2016 Pulkrabek ............... F41B 5/105
9,297,604 Bl* 3/2016 Sidebottom ............... F41B 5/12
(22) Filed: Nov. 19, 2019 9,377,267 Bl 6/2016 Kempf
9,383,159 B2 * 7/2016 Pulkrabek ............... F41B 5/123
(65) Prior Publication Data 9,389,041 B2 * 7/2016 Novikov ................... F41B 7/04
9,494,379 B2 * 11/2016 Yehle ...................... F41B 5/066
US 2020/0088491 Al Mar. 19, 2020 9,513,080 Bl * 12/2016 Kempf. F41B 5/1411
9,719,749 Bl * 8/2017 Prior ..................... F41B 5/0094
Related U.S. Application Data 9,921,026 Bl* 3/2018 Anderson ............. F41B 5/1469
10,473,418 B2 * 11/2019 Shaffer ................... F41B 5/123
(63) Continuation of application No. 15/934,865, filed on
Mar. 23, 2018, now Pat. No. 10,480,893. (Continued)
(60) Provisional application No. 62/476,583, filed on Mar.
24, 2017. Primary Examiner - Alexander R Niconovich

(51) Int. Cl.

F41B 5112 (2006.01) (57) ABSTRACT
(52) U.S. Cl.
CPC .................................... F41B 51123 (2013.01) In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock, a fire
( 58) Field of Classification Search control assembly and a bow portion. In some embodiments,
CPC ............. F41B 5/105; F41B 5/12; F41B 5/123 the bow portion comprises a prod, a first limb, a second limb,
USPC .................................................... 124/25, 900 a first rotatable member and a second rotatable member. The
See application file for complete search history. crossbow comprises a drawn orientation wherein the first
rotatable member overlaps with the stock. In some embodi-
(56) References Cited ments, a reference line oriented orthogonal to a shooting axis
intersects the stock and the first rotatable member. In some
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS embodiments, the reference line is parallel to a rotation axis
4,722,317 A * 2/1988 Hartwig .................... F41B 5/10 of the first rotatable member.
124/25.6
4,766,874 A * 8/1988 Nishioka ................... F41B 5/12
124/25 17 Claims, 5 Drawing Sheets

10~
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-8 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 11

US 10,866,056 B2
Page 2

(56) References Cited

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

10,480,893 B2 11/2019 McPherson

10,495,404 B2 * 12/2019 Shaffer ................... F41B 5/123
2011/0041820 Al* 2/2011 Stanziale ................ F41B 5/123
124/25
2011/0056467 Al* 3/2011 Popov ................... F41B 5/1469
124/25.6
2012/0125302 Al* 5/2012 Stanziale ................ F41B 5/123
124/25
2013/0312724 Al* 11/2013 Hudkins ................. F41B 5/123
124/25
2017/0160042 Al* 6/2017 Yehle ...................... F41B 5/105
2018/0051954 Al* 2/2018 Yehle ...................... F41B 5/143
2018/0172394 Al * 6/2018 Trpkovski ................. F41B 5/12

* cited by examiner
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-8 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 11

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-8 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 8 of 11

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-8 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 9 of 11
US 10,866,056 B2
1 2
CROSSBOW WITH STOCK OVERLAP
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED
APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent applica-
tion Ser. No. 15/934,865, filed Mar. 23, 2018, which claims
the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62/476,583, filed
Mar. 24, 2017, the entire contents of which are hereby
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to crossbows and more
specifically to compound crossbows having rotating mem-
bers.
Crossbows are generally known in the art. It can be
desirable to minimize the physical dimensions of a cross-
bow, provided that the crossbow delivers suitable firing,
speed and longevity characteristics.
Traditionally, crossbows have been relatively wide
because an archery bow is positioned across a stock. A width
dimension of the crossbow can be related to the size of the
bow portion of the crossbow. For example, a limb tip to limb
tip dimension for non-compound crossbows, and an axle-
to-axle dimension for compound crossbows can be related to
the width of the crossbow.
There remains a need for novel crossbow designs that
provide for smaller external crossbow dimensions while still
delivering suitable performance characteristics.
All US patents and applications and all other published
documents mentioned anywhere in this application are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Without limiting the scope of the invention a brief sum-
mary of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention
is set forth below. Additional details of the summarized
embodiments of the invention and/or additional embodi-
ments of the invention may be found in the Detailed
Description of the Invention below.
A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the speci-
fication is provided as well only for the purposes of com-
plying with 37 C.F.R. 1.72. The abstract is not intended to
be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a stock, a
fire control assembly and a bow portion. In some embodi-
ments, the bow portion comprises a prod, a first limb, a
second limb, a first rotatable member and a second rotatable
member. The crossbow comprises a drawn orientation
wherein the first rotatable member overlaps with the stock.
In some embodiments, a reference line oriented orthogonal
to a shooting axis intersects the stock and the first rotatable
member. In some embodiments, the reference line is parallel
to a rotation axis of the first rotatable member.
In some embodiments, a distance between the first rotat-
able member and the second rotatable member in the drawn
condition is less than a width of the stock.
In some embodiments, a portion of the first rotatable
member passes through a sidewall of the stock.
In some embodiments, the stock comprising a single piece
of material. In some embodiments, a crossbow comprises a
stock and a bow portion comprising a rotatable member, and
the rotatable member overlaps with the stock.
These and other embodiments which characterize the
invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims
annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a
better understanding of the invention, its advantages and
objectives obtained by its use, reference can be made to the
drawings which form a further part hereof and the accom-
5 parrying descriptive matter, in which there are illustrated and
described various embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
10 A detailed description of the invention is hereafter
described with specific reference being made to the draw-
ings.
FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a crossbow.
FIG. 2 shows a top view of the crossbow of FIG. 1.
15 FIG. 3 shows the crossbow of FIG. 1 in a drawn orien-
tation.
FIG. 4 shows a top view of the crossbow of FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 shows a detail of the crossbow as shown in FIG.
3.
20
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
INVENTION
While this invention may be embodied in many different
25 forms, there are described in detail herein specific embodi-
ments of the invention. This description is an exemplifica-
tion of the principles of the invention and is not intended to
limit the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated.
For the purposes of this disclosure, like reference numer-
30 als in the figures shall refer to like features unless otherwise
indicated.
FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of a crossbow 10 in
an undrawn or brace condition.
In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a stock
35 20, a trigger 12, a latch 14 and a bow portion 30. Desirably,
the bow portion 30 comprises a bowstring 18, and the
crossbow 10 stores energy as the bowstring 18 is drawn.
Desirably, the bowstring 18 can be retained in a drawn
configuration by the latch 14. Desirably, the trigger 12 is
40 arranged to cause the latch 14 to release the bowstring 18
upon actuation of the trigger 12.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 30 comprises a
prod 32. In some embodiments, the prod 32 is attached to the
stock 20. In some embodiments, the prod 32 supports a first
45 limb 40 and a second limb 42, and the limbs 40, 42 are
arranged to flex and store energy as the bowstring 18 is
drawn. In some embodiments, the prod 32 supports a limb
cup 34, and the limb cup 34 supports a limb 40.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 30 comprises a
50 first rotatable member 50 and a second rotatable member 52.
In some embodiments, the first limb 40 supports the first
rotatable member 50 and the second limb 42 supports the
second rotatable member 52. Desirably, the first rotatable
member 50 is arranged to rotate about a first rotation axis 51,
55 and the second rotatable member is arranged to rotate about
a second rotation axis 53. In some embodiments, a limb 40,
42 supports an axle 54, and a rotatable member 50, 52 is
rotatably mounted upon the axle 54.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 30 comprises a
60 compound bow. In some embodiments, a rotatable member
50 comprises a cam 56. In some embodiments, the bow
portion 30 comprises a power cable 60 that is arranged to be
taken up on the cam 56 as the bowstring 18 is drawn.
In some embodiments, the bow portion 30 can comprise
65 any suitable type of compound bow, such as a single cam
bow, a cam-and-a-halfbow, a two cam bow, etc. FIGS.1 and
2 show an embodiment of a two cam bow, wherein the
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-8 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 10 of 11
US 10,866,056 B2
3 4
power cable 60 is a first power cable 60 and the bow portion
30 further comprises a second power cable 62.
In some embodiments, as the bowstring 18 is drawn, the
limbs 40, 42 flex and the rotation axes 51, 53 of the rotatable
members 50, 52 move inward, for example in a direction
toward the shooting axis 16. In some embodiments, a
distance between the first rotation axis 51 and the second
rotation axis 53 decreases as the bowstring 18 is drawn.
In some embodiments, the stock 20 comprises a first side
surface 24 and a second side surface 26. In some embodi-
ments, each side surface 24, 26 comprises a plurality of
apertures 28. In some embodiments, the first side surface 24
extends parallel to the second side surface 26. In some
embodiments, a width of the stock 20 comprises a distance
between the first side surface 24 and the second side surface
26.
FIGS. 3-5 show the crossbow 10 of FIG. 1 in a drawn
condition, wherein the latch 14 is engaged with the bow-
string 18, and the crossbow 10 is retained in a drawn
orientation.
In some embodiments, the rotatable members 50, 52
move inward during draw. In some embodiments, at least
one rotatable member 50, 52 overlaps with the stock 20
during at least a portion of a draw cycle. In some embodi-
ments, each rotatable member 50, 52 overlaps with the stock
20 during at least a portion of the draw cycle.
In some embodiments, the stock 20 defines a width
dimension, and one or more rotatable members 50, 52
overlaps with the width dimension during at least a portion
of the draw cycle. In some embodiments, the first side 24 of
the stock 20 defines a plane, and a portion of the first
rotatable member 50 is oriented in the plane during at least
a portion of the draw cycle. In some embodiments, the
second side 26 of the stock 20 defines a plane, and a portion
of the second rotatable member 52 is oriented in the plane
during at least a portion of the draw cycle.
In some embodiments, a distance between the first rotat-
able member 50 and the second rotatable member 52 is less
than the width of the stock 20. In some embodiments, the
distance comprises the shortest distance between the rotat-
able members 50, 52.
In some embodiments, the stock 20 comprises an aperture
28, and a portion of a rotatable member 50, 52 is oriented in
the aperture 28 during at least a portion of the draw cycle.
In some embodiments, the first side 24 of the stock 20
comprises an aperture 28, and a portion of the first rotatable
member 50 is oriented in the aperture 28 during at least a
portion of the draw cycle. In some embodiments, the second
side 26 of the stock 20 comprises an aperture 28, and a
portion of the second rotatable member 52 is oriented in the
aperture 28 during at least a portion of the draw cycle.
In some embodiments, a rotatable member 50, 52 com-
prises a bowstring track 68. In some embodiments, a bow-
string track 68 extends around an outer periphery of a
rotatable member 50, 52. In some embodiments, a portion of
the bowstring track 68 overlaps with the stock 20 during at
least a portion of the draw cycle. In some embodiments, a
portion of the bowstring track 68 extends through a sidewall
24 of the stock 20. In some embodiments, a portion of a
bowstring track 68 is oriented in an aperture 28 in the stock
20.
In some embodiments, a reference line 46 (see FIGS. 4
and 5) arranged to intersect the stock 20 will also intersect
a rotatable member 50, 52 during at least a portion of the
draw cycle. In some embodiments, the reference line 46 is
oriented orthogonal to the shooting axis 16. In some embodi-
ments, the reference line 46 is oriented orthogonal to a
length of the stock 20. In some embodiments, the reference
line 46 is oriented vertically when the shooting axis 16 is
oriented horizontally. In some embodiments, the reference
line 46 is oriented parallel to a side (e.g. 24, 26) of the stock
5 20. In some embodiments, the reference line 46 is oriented
parallel a rotation axis 51, 53.
In some embodiments, the stock 20 comprises a cavity,
blind hole or the like, and a portion of a rotatable member
50, 52 is oriented in the cavity during at least a portion of the
10 draw cycle.
In some embodiments, a distance between the shooting
axis 16 and a side 24, 26 of the stock 20 is greater than a
distance between the shooting axis 16 and a rotating member
50, 52.
15 In some embodiments, the stock 20 as discussed herein
comprises a structural member of the crossbow 10. In some
embodiments, the stock 20 is placed into compression when
the crossbow 10 is cocked. In some embodiments, compres-
sion and/or bending forces are applied to the stock 20 by the
20 bow portion 30 between a first portion or location 70 of the
stock 20 and a second portion or location 71 of the stock 20.
In some embodiments, the first portion 70 comprises a
location where the prod 32 is attached to the stock 20. In
some embodiments, the second portion 71 comprises a
25 location where a fire control assembly 76 is attached to the
stock 20. The first control assembly 76 can comprise the
latch 14, which receives forces from the bowstring 18, and
the fire control assembly 76 transfers forces to the stock 20.
In some embodiments, the overlap between the stock 20 and
30 the rotatable members 50, 52 is located along a length of the
stock 20 between the first portion 70 and the second portion
71. In some embodiments, the stock 20 comprises a single
piece of material having a portion extending between the
first portion 70 and the second portion 71.
35 In some embodiments, a crossbow 10 comprises a
handgrip 72, finger guards 74 or other similar components,
and these components are supported by the stock 20 but are
not considered to be a part of the stock 20 for the purposes
of overlap discussed herein. In some embodiments, the stock
40 20 comprises a structural component of the crossbow 10 that
comprises a single piece of material.
The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not
exhaustive. This description will suggest many variations
and alternatives to one of ordinary skill in this field of art.
45 All these alternatives and variations are intended to be
included within the scope of the claims where the term
"comprising" means "including, but not limited to." Those
familiar with the art may recognize other equivalents to the
specific embodiments described herein which equivalents
50 are also intended to be encompassed by the claims.
Further, the particular features presented in the dependent
claims can be combined with each other in other manners
within the scope of the invention such that the invention
should be recognized as also specifically directed to other
55 embodiments having any other possible combination of the
features of the dependent claims. For instance, for purposes
of claim publication, any dependent claim which follows
should be taken as alternatively written in a multiple depen-
dent form from all prior claims which possess all anteced-
60 ents referenced in such dependent claim if such multiple
dependent format is an accepted format within the jurisdic-
tion (e.g. each claim depending directly from claim 1 should
be alternatively taken as depending from all previous
claims). In jurisdictions where multiple dependent claim
65 formats are restricted, the following dependent claims
should each be also taken as alternatively written in each
singly dependent claim format which creates a dependency
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-8 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 11 of 11
US 10,866,056 B2
5 6
from a prior antecedent-possessing claim other than the
specific claim listed in such dependent claim below.
This completes the description of the preferred and alter-
nate embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiment
described herein which equivalents are intended to be
encompassed by the claims attached hereto.
The invention claimed is:
1. A crossbow comprising:
a stock comprising a structural portion;
a fire control assembly attached to the stock;
a bow portion attached to the stock, the bow portion
comprising a prod, a first limb, a second limb, a first
rotatable member arranged on the first limb to rotate
about a rotation axis, a second rotatable member on the
second limb and a bowstring extending between the
first rotatable member and the second rotatable mem-
ber;
the crossbow comprising a drawn orientation wherein the
first rotatable member overlaps with the stock such that
a reference line oriented parallel to the rotation axis
intersects the first rotatable member and the structural
portion.
2. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the reference line is
oriented orthogonal to a shooting axis.
3. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein the second rotatable
member overlaps with the stock.
4. The crossbow of claim 3, wherein a distance between
the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member
in the drawn condition is less than a width of the stock.
5. The crossbow of claim 1, wherein a portion of the first
rotatable member passes through a sidewall of the stock.
6. The crossbow of claim 5, the sidewall comprising an
aperture, a portion of the first rotatable member oriented in
the aperture.
7. The crossbow of claim 1, compnsmg a non-drawn
orientation wherein the first rotatable member does not
overlap with the stock.
8. The crossbow of claim 1, the stock comprising a single
5 piece of material.
9. The crossbow of claim 1, the stock comprising a
structural component of the crossbow that receives applied
forces from the bow portion at a first location and a second
location.
10. The crossbow of claim 9, the first location comprising
10
an attachment between the prod and the stock.
11. The crossbow of claim 10, the second location com-
prising an attachment between the first control assembly and
the stock.
12. A crossbow comprising:
15 a stock comprising a structural portion,
a bow portion comprising a rotatable member arranged on
a first limb to rotate about a rotation axis and a
bowstring segment arranged to unspool from the rotat-
able member as the crossbow is drawn;
20 wherein a reference line oriented parallel to the rotation
axis intersects the rotatable member and the structural
portion.
13. The crossbow of claim 12, wherein a side of the stock
defines a plane, and a portion of the rotatable member is
25 oriented in the plane.
14. The crossbow of claim 12, wherein a side of the stock
comprises an aperture, and a portion of the rotatable member
is oriented in the aperture.
15. The crossbow of claim 12, wherein a side of the stock
30 comprises a cavity, and a portion of the rotatable member is
oriented in the cavity.
16. The crossbow of claim 12, wherein the reference line
is oriented orthogonal to a shooting axis of the crossbow.
17. The crossbow of claim 12, the stock comprising a
35 single piece of material.
* * * * *
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-9 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 14

EXHIBIT 9
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-9 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 14
I 1111111111111111 11111 1111111111 111111111111111 IIIII IIIII 111111111111111111
US008746220B2

c12) United States Patent (IO) Patent No.: US 8,746,220 B2

McPherson et al. (45) Date of Patent: Jun.10,2014

(54) ARCHERY BOW (56) References Cited

(71) Applicant: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

3,486,495 A 12/1969 Allen

(72) Inventors: Mathew A. McPherson, Norwalk, WI 3,854,467 A 12/1974 Hofmeister
(US); Gary L. Simonds, Gainesville, FL 4,020,819 A 5/1977 Haines
(US) 4,074,409 A 2/1978 Smith
4,781,168 A 11/1988 Lester
4,879,987 A 11/1989 Nishioka
(73) Assignee: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 5,022,377 A 6/1991 Stevens
5,125,389 A 6/1992 Paff
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term ofthis 5,339,790 A 8/1994 Smith
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 5,370,103 A 12/1994 Desselle
U.S.C. 154(b) by O days. 5,495,843 A 3/1996 Larson
5,499,618 A 3/1996 Thompson
5,853,001 A 12/1998 Vyprachticky
(21) Appl. No.: 13/720,575 5,921,227 A 7/1999 Allshouse et al.
7,980,236 Bl 7/2011 Kronengold et al.
(22) Filed: Dec. 19, 2012 8,020,544 B2 9/2011 McPherson et al.
2009/0056688 Al 3/2009 Marsh et al.
(65) Prior Publication Data 2009/0107475 Al 4/2009 Pittman

US 2013/0104866 Al May 2, 2013 Primary Examiner - John Ricci

(74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm - Vidas, Arrett & Steinkraus

(57) ABSTRACT
Related U.S. Application Data
In at least one embodiment, an archery bow comprises a riser
(63) Continuation of application No. 12/700,612, filed on supporting a first limb and a second limb. The first limb
Feb. 4, 2010, now Pat. No. 8,505,526. supports a first rotatable member that defines a first axis of
(60) Provisional application No. 61/149,972, filed on Feb. rotation. The second limb supports a second rotatable mem-
ber that defines a second axis of rotation. The first axis of
4, 2009.
rotation and the second axis of rotation move with respect to
one another as the bow is drawn from a brace condition to a
(51) Int. Cl.
drawn condition. The bow defines a reference plane that
F41B 5110 (2006.01)
includes the first axis of rotation and the second axis of
(52) U.S. Cl. rotation, wherein a distance between a predetermined loca-
USPC . ... ... ... .. ... ... ... ... ... .. ... ... ... ... ... .. ... ... ... .. 124/25.6 tion on the riser and the reference plane is greater in the brace
( 58) Field of Classification Search condition than in the drawn condition.
USPC ................................................... 124/25, 25.6
See application file for complete search history. 19 Claims, 8 Drawing Sheets
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-9 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 14

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 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-9 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 11 of 14
US 8,746,220 B2
1 2
ARCHERY BOW
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED
APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation application ofU.S. appli-
cation Ser. No. 12/700,612, filed Feb. 4, 2010, which claims
the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/149,972,
filed Feb. 4, 2009, the entire disclosure of which is hereby
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to generally to archery bows, and
more specifically to designs for compound archery bows.
Compound archery bows typically include a cam or pulley
at the end of each limb. Each cam or pulley is configured to
rotate around an axle. As the bowstring is drawn, the limbs
flex and the axles move. If a hypothetical line were drawn
between the axles, the line would typically be oriented verti-
cally. As the bow is drawn from a brace condition to full draw,
the line would move in a rearward direction, away from the
bow handle and toward the shooter.
There remains a need for further improvement in archery
bows, including the ability to store more energy in the drawn
condition and to gain further control over a bow' s draw force
profile.
Bow presses are often used when servicing a bow. There
remains a need for bow press designs that are more suitable
for use with new bow configurations than previous bow press
designs.
All US patents and applications and all other published
documents mentioned anywhere in this application are incor-
porated herein by reference in their entirety.
Without limiting the scope of the invention a brief sum-
mary of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention is
set forth below.Additional details of the summarized embodi-
ments of the invention and/or additional embodiments of the
invention may be found in the Detailed Description of the
Invention below.
A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specifi-
cation is provided as well only for the purposes of complying
with 37 C.F.R. 1. 72. The abstract is not intended to be used for
interpreting the scope of the claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In at least one embodiment, an archery bow comprises a
riser supporting a first limb and a second limb. The first limb
supports a first rotatable member that defines a first axis of
rotation. The second limb supports a second rotatable mem-
ber that defines a second axis of rotation. The first axis of
rotation and the second axis of rotation move with respect to
one another as the bow is drawn from a brace condition to a
drawn condition. The bow defines a reference plane that
includes the first axis of rotation and the second axis of
rotation, wherein a distance between a predetermined loca-
tion on the riser and the reference plane is greater in the brace
condition than in the drawn condition.
In at least one embodiment, an archery bow comprises a
riser supporting a first limb and a second limb, each limb
comprising an inner surface and an outer surface. The bow
further comprises at least one bearing accessory attached to
the first limb. The bearing accessory comprises a raised por-
tion extending outward beyond the outer surface of the first
limb. Desirably, the raised portion comprises curvature about
an axis transverse to said first limb.
In at least one embodiment, a combination comprises an
archery bow comprising a bearing accessory and a bow press
having a bow engaging member. The bearing accessory has a
bearing surface of first predetermined shape, and the bow
5 engaging member has a surface having a second predeter-
mined shape, wherein the second predetermined shape mat-
ingly engages the first predetermined shape
These and other embodiments which characterize the
invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims
10
annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a
better understanding of the invention, its advantages and
objectives obtained by its use, reference can be made to the
drawings which form a further part hereof and the accompa-
15 nying descriptive matter, in which there are illustrated and
described various embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
20
A detailed description of the invention is hereafter
described with specific reference being made to the drawings.
FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of an archery bow in
brace and drawn conditions.
FIGS. 3 and4 show anotherembodimentofanarcherybow
25 in brace and drawn conditions.
FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of an archery bow and an
embodiment of a bow press.
FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of an engaging member of a
bow press.
30 FIG. 7 shows a portion of an archery bow that includes at
least one embodiment of a bearing accessory.
FIG. 8 shows another view of the bow shown in FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 shows a bow press engaging member abutting a
bearing accessory of an archery bow.
35 FIG. 10 shows a portion ofa bow having an embodiment of
a bearing accessory and an embodiment of bow press engag-
ing members.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
40
While this invention may be embodied in many different
forms, there are described in detail herein specific embodi-
ments of the invention. This description is an exemplification
of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit
45 the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated.
For the purposes of this disclosure, like reference numerals
in the figures shall refer to like features unless otherwise
indicated.
FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of an archery bow 10.
50 The bow 10 comprises a handle 14, a first limb 16 and a
second limb 18. The first limb 16 supports a first axle 26,
which in turn supports a first rotatable member 20. The sec-
ond limb 18 supports a second axle 28, which in tum supports
a second rotatable member 22.
55 FIG. 1 illustrates a brace condition, wherein the bowstring
12 is not drawn. Line b represents a hypothetical line extend-
ing between the first axle 26 and second axle 28. Line b also
represents a two-dimensional plane extending parallel to a
longitudinal axis of each axle 26, 28. Line a represents a
60 reference line oriented parallel to line b and passing through
a predetermined location 30 on the handle 14.
In some embodiments, the predetermined location 30 com-
prises a location from which brace height is measured. For
example, in some embodiments, the predetermined location
65 30 comprises a pivot point 31 of the grip 15. In some embodi-
ments, the predetermined location 30 comprises an accessory
mount location, such as an arrow rest mount location.
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-9 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 12 of 14
US 8,746,220 B2
3 4
A distance between line a and line b is illustrated as dis-
tance A, for example taken in a direction orthogonal to the
lines a, b.
Line c represents a hypothetical line drawn between the
firstaxle26 andaneffectivefulcrum40 of the first limb 16.As
the bowstring 12 is drawn, the fulcrum 40 represents an
effective support point for the limb 16, which acts as a canti-
lever. As illustrated, in some embodiments, line c extends
orthogonal to line/plane b.
FIG. 2 shows the bow 10 of FIG. 1 in a drawn condition.
Each axle 26, 28 has moved with respect to its location in the
brace condition. Vectors E are shown, which approximately
represent the forces effectively applied to the axles 26, 28 by
the cables of the archery bow. Line/plane b has moved in a
direction away from the bowstring 12 and toward the handle
14. The distance between line a and line b is illustrated as
distance B, for example taken in a direction orthogonal to the
lines a, b. The distance B in FIG. 2 is less than distance A in
FIG. 1.
In some embodiments, the distance A in the brace condi-
tion and distance B in the drawn condition represent the
shortest distances between the predetermined location 30 and
the line/reference plane b.
In various embodiments of the invention, the configuration
of the limbs 16, 18 and locations of the axles 26, 28 in the
brace and drawn conditions can be adjusted to allow for
desired draw force profiles and movement of line/plane b.
Movement ofline/plane bin a direction toward the handle 14
can allow more energy to be stored in the bow. The specific
movement ofline/plane b as the bow is drawn can be used to
impact the draw force profile.
In some embodiments, line/plane b can initially move away
from the handle 14 then reverse the direction of travel, thus
moving back toward the handle. In some embodiments, line/
plane b moves past its original location in the brace condition
and ends its travel at full draw being located closer to the
handle 14.
In some embodiments, line/plane b remains a constant
distance or a substantially constant distance from the handle
14 as the bow is drawn from brace to full draw.
In some embodiments, the invention is drawn to a bow
wherein the line/plane b moves in a direction toward the
handle 14 during some portion of bowstring draw, regardless
of whether or not the line/plane b previously moved in a
direction away from the handle 14.
FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of an archery bow 10 in
a brace condition, and FIG. 4 shows the bow 10 of FIG. 3 in
a drawn condition. The bow 10 includes many components
similar to the bow of FIG. 1, as indicated by like reference
characters. The bow 10 of FIG. 3 further comprises power
cable force vectoring anchors 50, for example as described in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/248,467, the entire dis-
closure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
The bow 10 of FIG. 3 also comprises a cable guard 34 that
biases a portion of each power cable 52 in a direction toward
the handle 14. As shown, the cable guard 34 comprises a roller
guard.
Lines a and b, similar to those described with respect to
FIG.1, are shown on FIGS. 3 and4.As the bow l0transitions
from brace to full draw, line/plane b moves closer to the
handle 14. Because line/plane b moves closer to the cable
guard 34, the effects of undesirable lateral forces imparted to
the bow 10 from the cable guard 34 are reduced when com-
pared to prior art designs.
In some embodiments, line/plane b begins to move toward
the handle 14 as the bow is initially drawn, and will continue
to move closer to the handle 14 as the bowstring 12 is drawn
to full draw.
5 In some embodiments, a power cable 52 extends from a
power cam 42 on one rotatable member (e.g. 22) to an anchor
(e.g. 50) on or near the opposite rotatable member (e.g. 20)
that does not include a power cam. The power cable 52 can
comprise a cam side 54 located between the roller guard 34
10
and the power cam 42, and an anchor side 56 located between
the roller guard 34 and the anchor 50.
Desirably, an angle a between line b (reference plane) and
the anchor side 56 of the power cable 52 is less in the drawn
15
condition than in the brace condition.
Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments, an
archery bow comprises a bearing accessory 60. In general, the
bearing accessory 60 comprises a structure that can be
engaged by a bow press. A bearing accessory 60 will help a
20 bow press engage a bow in a safe manner.
FIG. 5 shows an example ofa bow press 70 and an embodi-
ment of an archery bow 10 being engaged by the bow press
70. The bow press 70 generally comprises a body portion 72
that supports a first engagement member 74 and a second
25 engagement member 76. The first engagement member 74
and the second engagement member 76 are moveable with
respect to one another-for example, in some embodiments,
the second engagement member 76 moves along the length of
the body portion 72. The bow press 72 engagement members
30 74, 76 are generally positioned to abut the limbs 16, 18 of the
archery bow 10 and force the limbs 16, 18 and axles 26, 28
towards one another. The resulting slack in the bow cables
(e.g. bowstring 12) allows the bow to be serviced safely.
As archery bows have evolved, the positioning of the limbs
35 16, 18 has changed. Whereas older bows typically had spac-
ing between the limbs 16, 18 that continuously increased as
the limbs 16, 18 were traversed from the handle/riser 14
toward the axles 26, 28, the bow 10 shown in FIG. 5 includes
limbs 16, 18 that extend parallel or near-parallel to one
40 another from an approximate mid-portion of each limb 16, 18
to the axles 26, 28.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a bow 10 is shown where the
limbs 16, 18 pass through a parallel configuration and even
curve back toward one another. See, for example, the portion
45 of the limbs 16, 18 located in the area between line a and line
b. As the limb 16, 18 orientation extends "beyond parallel,"
conventional bow presses in some cases may not be suitable
to properly engage the bow.
FIG. 5 shows a bow 10 comprising a bearing accessory 60
50 on each limb 16, 18, and a bow press 70 having engaging
members 74, 76 that are respectively shaped to matingly
engage a bearing accessory 60.
Referring to FIGS. 5-8, the bearing accessory 60 comprises
a bearing surface 62 configured to receive and engage an
55 engaging member 74. The bearing surface 62 comprises a first
predetermined shape. Desirably, the engaging member 74
comprises a surface 78 having a second predetermined shape,
wherein the first predetermined shape and the second prede-
termined shape are constructed and arranged to matingly
60 engage one another. For example, the first predetermined
shape and the second predetermined shape can comprise
similar curvature. In some embodiments, the bearing surface
62 and the engaging surface 78 comprise semicircular and/or
semi-cylindrical shapes.
65 FIGS. 7 and 8 show a portion of an archery bow in detail. In
some embodiments, a limb 16 comprises a split portion defin-
ing a groove 42. A rotatable member 20 can be positioned in
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-9 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 13 of 14
US 8,746,220 B2
5 6
the groove 42 and supported on an axle 26 that is supported by
the limb 16. Each side of the split limb portion can include a
bearing accessory 60.
Desirably, the bearing surface 62 of each bearing accessory
60 comprises a raised portion that extends outward beyond
the outer surface 17 of the limb 16. The raised portion pro-
vides a flange that the bow press 70 can engage.
The bearing surface 62 can comprise any suitable shape. In
some embodiments, at least a portion of the bearing surface
62 extends at an angle to the outer surface 17 of the limb 16.
In some embodiments, the bearing surface 62 is not oriented
perpendicular to the outer surface 17.
In some embodiments, the bearing surface 62 comprises
curvature about an axis 68 oriented transverse to the limb 16.
For example, the axis 68 can be parallel to said axle 26. In
some embodiments, the curvature is convex with respect to
the limb 16.
In some embodiments, the bearing surface 62 is flat in a
direction parallel to said axis 68.
The bearing accessory 60 can be attached to the limb 60
using any suitable method, such as adhesives, fasteners or the
like.
In some embodiments, the bearing accessory 60 further
comprises a target plate 38 that can be used to secure the
bearing accessory 60. For example, in some embodiments,
the bearing accessory 60 and the target plate 38 are positioned
on opposite sides of the limb 16, and fastener such as a bolt
can attach the bearing accessory 60 to the target plate 38. In
some embodiments, a fastener extends through a portion of
the limb.
FIG. 9 shows a side view of a bow press engaging member
74 engaging a bearing accessory 60. The bearing surface 62
comprises curvature in the lengthwise direction of the limb
and is flat in the transverse direction of the limb. It can be seen
that as the bow press moves to bias the limb, the limb will flex,
effectively rotating the end of the limb 16. The shape of the
bearing surface 62 remains normal to the surface 78 of the
bow press engaging member 74 as the limb 16 moves and
rotates, ensuring a secure engagement.
FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a bearing accessory 60
comprising a target plate 38 wherein the target plate 38 is a
compression member. The fasteners 46 extend through the
target plate 38 but also abut the outer surface of the target plate
38. The fasteners 46 extend into the portion of the bearing
accessory 60 that comprises the bearing surface 62 and
engage the bearing accessory 60.
FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of a bearing accessory 60
wherein the heads of fasteners 46 are recessed in the bearing
accessory 60.
In some embodiments, the target plate 38 comprises an
archery bow accessory 66, such as a string suppressor as
shown in FIGS. 5, 7 and 8.
In some embodiments, at least one bearing accessory 60 is
included on each limb 16, 18. In some embodiments, the
orientation of a bearing accessory 60 on the first limb 16 is a
mirror image of the bearing accessory on the second limb 18.
The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not
exhaustive. This description will suggest many variations and
alternatives to one ofordinary skill in this fieldofart.All these
alternatives and variations are intended to be included within
the scope of the claims where the term "comprising" means
"including, but not limited to." Those familiar with the art
may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiments
described herein which equivalents are also intended to be
encompassed by the claims.
Further, the particular features presented in the dependent
claims can be combined with each other in other manners
within the scope of the invention such that the invention
should be recognized as also specifically directed to other
embodiments having any other possible combination of the
features of the dependent claims. For instance, for purposes of
5 claim publication, any dependent claim which follows should
be taken as alternatively written in a multiple dependent form
from all prior claims which possess all antecedents refer-
enced in such dependent claim if such multiple dependent
format is an accepted format within the jurisdiction (e.g. each
10 claim depending directly from claim 1 should be alternatively
taken as depending from all previous claims). In jurisdictions
where multiple dependent claim formats are restricted, the
following dependent claims should each be also taken as
alternatively written in each singly dependent claim format
15 which creates a dependency from a prior antecedent-possess-
ing claim other than the specific claim listed in such depen-
dent claim below.
This completes the description of the preferred and alter-
nate embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art
20 may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiment
described herein which equivalents are intended to be encom-
passed by the claims attached hereto.
The invention claimed is:
25 1. A compound archery bow having a brace condition and
a drawn condition, the bow comprising:
a riser supporting a first limb and a second limb, the riser
defining a predetermined location;
the first limb supporting a first rotatable member, the first
30 rotatable member defining a first axis of rotation;
the second limb supporting a second rotatable member, the
second rotatable member defining a second axis of rota-
tion;
a cable guard attached to said riser and a power cable
35 extending between said first rotatable member and said
second rotatable member, said cable guard biasing said
power cable in a lateral direction;
the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation
moving with respect to one another as the bow is drawn
40 from the brace condition to the drawn condition;
wherein the bow defines a reference plane that includes the
first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation, and
the reference plane continually traverses toward the pre-
determined location as the bow is drawn from the brace
45 condition to the drawn condition.
2. The bow of claim 1, further comprising a bearing acces-
sory attached to the first limb.
3. The bow of claim 1, wherein said predetermined location
comprises a pivot point of a bow grip.
50 4. The bow of claim 1, wherein said predetermined location
comprises an accessory mount location.
5. The bow of claim 1, wherein the first axis of rotation
comprises a first axle.
6. The bow of claim 5, wherein the second axis of rotation
55 comprises a second axle.
7. The bow of claim 1, wherein an angle between said
power cable and said reference plane is greater in the brace
condition than in the drawn condition.
8. The bow of claim 1, comprising a bowstring extending
60 between said first rotatable member and said second rotatable
member.
9. The bow of claim 8, wherein said bowstring is drawn in
a direction away from said riser.
10. A compound archery bow having a brace condition and
65 a drawn condition, the bow comprising:
a riser supporting a first limb and a second limb, the riser
defining a predetermined location;
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-9 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 14 of 14

US 8,746,220 B2
7 8
the first limb supporting a first rotatable member, the first
rotatable member defining a first axis of rotation;
the second limb supporting a second rotatable member, the
second rotatable member defining a second axis of rota-
tion;
a cable guard attached to said riser and a power cable
extending between said first rotatable member and said
second rotatable member, said cable guard biasing said
power cable in a lateral direction;
wherein the bow defines a reference plane that includes the
first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation, and
the reference plane moves toward the predetermined
location as the bow is initially drawn from the brace
condition.
11. The bow of claim 10, wherein the reference plane
moves toward the predetermined location during a first quar-
ter of draw from the brace condition to the drawn condition.
12. The bow of claim 10, wherein the reference plane
moves toward the predetermined location during a first half of
draw from the brace condition to the drawn condition.
13. The bow of claim 10, wherein the reference plane
continually moves toward the predetermined location as the
bow is drawn from the brace condition to the drawn condition.
14. The bow of claim 10, wherein the first axis of rotation
5 comprises a first axle.
15. The bow of claim 14, wherein the second axis of rota-
tion comprises a second axle.
16. The bow of claim 10, wherein an angle between said
power cable and said reference plane is greater in the brace
10
condition than in the drawn condition.
17. The bow of claim 10, further comprising a bearing
accessory attached to the first limb.
18. The bow of claim 10, comprising a bowstring extending
15 between said first rotatable member and said second rotatable
member.
19. The bow of claim 18, wherein said bowstring is drawn
in a direction away from said riser.
* * * * *
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-10 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 3

EXHIBIT 10
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-10 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 3
I 1111111111111111 111111111111111 11111 111111111111111 IIIII IIIIIII II IIIII IIII
US00D868195S

c12) United States Design Patent c10) Patent No.: US D868,195 S

Ozanne (45) Date of Patent: ** *Nov. 26, 2019

(54) CROSSBOW RAIL D685,874 S * 7/2013 Andrews, Jr. ................ D22/108

D718,404 S * 11/2014 Barnett ........................ D22/107
(71) Applicant: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 9,500,433 B2 * 11/2016 McPherson ........... F41B 5/1403
D775,298 S * 12/2016 Barnett ........................ D22/107
D779,617 S * 2/2017 Barnett ........................ D22/107
(72) Inventor: Jeffrey A. Ozanne, Sparta, WI (US) D779,621 S * 2/2017 Salvador ...................... D22/108
D780,277 S * 2/2017 Barnett ........................ D22/107
(73) Assignee: MCP IP, LLC, Sparta, WI (US) 9,658,025 B2 5/2017 Trpkovski
D834,113 S * 11/2018 Chu ............................. D21/574
( *) Notice: This patent is subject to a terminal dis- 2014/0069402 Al * 3/2014 McPherson ............. F41B 5/123
claimer. 124/25
2014/0069404 Al 3/2014 McPherson
(**) Term: 15 Years 2015/0233664 Al 8/2015 McPherson

(21) Appl. No.: 29/632,693 OTHER PUBLICATIONS

(22) Filed: Jan. 9, 2018 "Mission SUB-1 Crossbow at LancasterArchery.com" [online].

(51) LOC (12) Cl. ............................................... 22-01 Lancaster Archery Supply. [Published on Oct. 3, 2017]. Retrieved
from the Internet: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v~
(52) U.S. Cl.
USPC ......................................................... D22/107 lWPcrlXRwS4>.*
(58) Field of Classification Search
* cited by examiner
USPC ...... D21/301, 304, 567, 570, 571, 573, 574,
D21/575, 746; D22/100, 101, 102, 103, Primary Examiner - Khawaja Anwar
D22/106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112,
Assistant Examiner - Mojtaba Tehrani
D22/115, 116, 199
CPC ...... F41A 3/26; F41A 3/12; F41A 5/02; F41A
(57) CLAIM
17/22; F41B 5/143; F41B 5/14; F41B
5/066; F41B 7/08; F41B 5/1446; F41B The ornamental design for a crossbow rail, as shown and
5/148; F41B 5/1465; F42B 6/04; F42B described.
6/08; F42B 6/02; F42B 6/06; F42B
12/362; F41C 23/16; F41C 27/00; F41C DESCRIPTION
7/00; F41G 11/003; F41G 11/001; F41G
11/004; F41G 11/005; A63H 5/04 The sole FIGURE shows a side view of the crossbow rail.
See application file for complete search history. The left side view and right side view are the same.
No claim is made to top, bottom, front or back views.
(56) References Cited The broken lines in the sole FIGURE disclose unclaimed
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS portions of the crossbow rail only and form no part of the
claimed design.
D415,812 S * 10/1999 Andrews, Jr. ................ D22/100
7,997,258 B2 8/2011 Shepley et al. 1 Claim, 1 Drawing Sheet

i ,/- ,:!

i,
i.11·.e']i !

.D
I
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-10 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 3

U.S. Patent Nov. 26, 2019 US D868,195 S

'· ·,,_
~-.
'•,,'•·~·
--,,,
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-11 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 8

EXHIBIT 11
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-11 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 8

U.S. Patent No. 8,991,375

Claim Discussion Exemplary Ravin R500

Elements
1. A The bow [1]
crossbow is a (“Brace” or Undrawn Condition)
comprising: crossbow.
1

a stock, a The
first limb, a crossbow
first includes a
rotatable stock [2] first
member, a and second
second limbs [3][4]

1
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-11 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 8

limb and a and first and

second second
rotatable rotatable
member; members
[5][6]

2 5/6 3/4

2
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-11 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 8

a bowstring The
extending crossbow
between includes a
the first bow string
rotatable [7] extending
member between a
and the first and
second second
rotatable rotatable
member; members 5/6
[5][6] (shown
in green).

a first cable The

extending crossbow
between includes a
the first first cable [8]
rotatable extending
member between a
and the first and
second second

3
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-11 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 5 of 8

rotatable rotatable
member members
and a (shown in
second yellow) and
cable a second
extending cable [9]
between extending
the first between a
rotatable first and
member second
and the rotatable
second members
rotatable (shown in
member; orange). 9 8

a first cable A cable Brace Orientation:

positioner positioner
attached to [10] is
said stock; attached to
the crossbow
stock. 10

4
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-11 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 6 of 8

wherein The
the crossbow
crossbow defines a
defines a shooting axis
shooting (shown in
axis, the green) and
first cable is the first and
offset from second
the cables
shooting (shown in
axis in a orange and
first yellow) are
direction offset from
and the the shooting Brace Orientation
second axis in
cable is different
offset from directions.
the First cable
shooting positioner
axis in a [10] biases
second the first cable
direction away from
different the stock in
from the both the
first brace and
direction, drawn
said first orientation.
cable
positioner While
biasing the drawing the

5
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-11 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 7 of 8

first cable crossbow, a

away from cable
said stock, positioner
at least a [10] moves
portion of along the
said first stock biasing
cable the cable
positioner away from
moveable the stock in
10
with each
respect to configuration
said stock. (movement
area shown
in green).

Drawn Orientation

10

6
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-11 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 8 of 8

7
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-12 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 7

EXHIBIT 12
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-12 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 7

U.S. Patent No. 9,255,757

Claim Discussion Exemplary Ravin R500

Elements
18. A The bow [1]
crossbow is a (“Brace” or Undrawn Condition)
comprising: crossbow.
1

a stock, a The
first limb, a crossbow
first includes a
rotatable stock [2] first
member, a and second
second limbs [3][4]

1
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-12 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 7

limb and a and first and

second second
rotatable rotatable
member; members
[5][6].

2 5/6 3/4

2
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-12 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 7

a bowstring The
extending crossbow
between includes a
the first bowstring [7]
rotatable (shown in
member green)
and the extending
second between a
rotatable first and
member; second 5/6
rotatable
members
[5][6].
7

a first cable The

extending crossbow
between includes a
the first first cable [8]
rotatable extending
member between a
and the first and
second second

3
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-12 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 5 of 7

rotatable rotatable
member; members
(shown in
orange).

a cable A cable Brace Orientation:

positioner positioner [9]
attached to is attached to
said stock, the crossbow
said cable stock. The
positioner cable 9
biasing positioner [9]
said first biases a first
cable in a cable [10] in
first a first
direction, direction 10
said cable (shown in
positioner orange) and
biasing a a second 11
second cable [11] in
cable in a a second

4
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-12 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 6 of 7

second direction Partially drawn orientation

direction (shown in
different yellow). The
from said cable
first positioner [9]
direction, is part of a
12
said cable guide
positioner member [12]
comprising that moves
a guide with respect
member in to the stock
contact while the
with said bowstring is
first cable, drawn –
said guide showing that
member a guide
movable member has
with moved while
respect to drawing the
said stock; crossbow
(movement
area shown
in green).

5
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-12 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 7 of 7

wherein The
the crossbow
crossbow defines a
defines a shooting axis
shooting (shown in
axis, said green) and
stock the first cable
extending (shown in
below said orange) is
shooting positioned
axis, the above the
first cable stock and
positioned shooting
above said axis.
shooting
axis.

6
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-13 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 7

EXHIBIT 13
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-13 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 7

U.S. Patent No. 9,476,665

Claim Discussion Exemplary Ravin R500

Elements
1. A The bow [1]
crossbow is a (“Brace” or Undrawn Condition)
comprising: crossbow.
1

1
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-13 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 7

a stock and The

a bow crossbow
portion; includes a
stock [2] and
a bow [3]
portion.

2
3

the bow The bow

portion portion [3]
comprising includes a
a first limb first limb
supporting and second
a first limb [4/5]
rotatable supporting a
member, a first and
second second
limb rotatable
supporting member
a second [6/7]. first
rotatable and second
member, a limbs [4][5]

2
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-13 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 7

first cable and first and

segment, a second
second rotatable
cable members
segment, [6][7].
and a Exemplary
bowstring; first cable
segment [8]
(shown in
orange) and
second cable
segment [9]
(shown in
yellow).
Bowstring 3 6/7 4/5
[10] is
shown in
green.

10

3
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-13 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 5 of 7

a first cable The first Brace Orientation

positioner cable
contacting positioner
the stock [10] is
and movable
moveable with respect
with to the stock
respect to [10a]
the stock, (movement 10
the first area shown
cable in green) 8
positioner and biases
biasing the the first 2
first cable cable
segment segment [8]
away from away from
the stock; the stock [2].

Drawn Orientation

4
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-13 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 6 of 7

10a

5
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-13 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 7 of 7

wherein The
the crossbow
crossbow defines a
defines a shooting 8
shooting axis (shown
axis, the in green).
first The first
cable cable
segment is segment [8]
11
offset from (shown in
the orange) is
shooting offset from 9
axis in a the shooting
first axis [11] in a
direction first
and the direction
second and the
cable second cable
segment is segment [9]
offset from (shown in
the yellow) is
shooting offset from
axis in a the shooting
second axis in a
direction second
different direction
from different
the first from the
direction. first
direction.

6
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-14 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 5

EXHIBIT 14
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-14 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 5

U.S. Patent No. 9,500,433

Claim Discussion Exemplary Ravin R500

Elements
1. A The bow [1]
crossbow is a (“Brace” or Undrawn Condition)
comprising: crossbow.
1

1
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-14 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 5

a stock The
defining a crossbow [1]
shooting includes a
axis; stock [2] and
the stock
defines the
shooting axis
illustrated in
green;

2
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-14 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 5

a bow The bow

portion portion
comprising includes a
a bowstring bow string
and a cable; [3] and a
cable [4].

a cable A cable Brace Orientation:

positioner positioner
arranged to [5] biases a
bias said cable [4] in a
cable in a direction
direction substantially
lateral to lateral to the
the shooting axis
shooting (shown in

3
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-14 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 5 of 5

axis, the green) when

cable the crossbow
positioner is in a brace 5
moving or undrawn
with orientation. 4
respect to As the
the stock crossbow is
along a drawn, the
travel path cable
as the bow positioner
is drawn, at [5] moves
least a along a
portion of travel path
the travel [6] (shown
path being in yellow), at 6
non- least a
parallel to portion of Drawn Orientation
the which is not
shooting parallel to
axis. the shooting
axis. In the
drawn
orientation, 5
the cable
positioner
[5] has 6
moved along
the travel
path [6].

4
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-15 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 6

EXHIBIT 15
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-15 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 6

U.S. Patent No. 9,879,939

Claim Discussion Exemplary Ravin R500

Elements
1. A crossbow The bow [1]
comprising: is a (“Brace” or Undrawn Condition)
crossbow.
1

1
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-15 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 6

a stock The
defining a crossbow [1]
shooting axis; includes a
stock [2] and
the stock
defines the
shooting
axis
illustrated in
green;

2
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-15 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 6

a bow portion The bow

comprising a portion
first limb includes a
supporting a first [3] and
first rotatable second [4]
member, a limb 8
second limb supporting a
supporting a first [5] and 5/6
second second [6]
rotatable rotatable 3/4
member, a member. a
bowstring bow string
extending [7] (shown
between the in green)
7
first and and a cable
second [8] to be
rotatable taken up on
members, the first
and a cable rotatable
arranged to member
be taken up (shown in
on the first orange).
rotatable
member; and
a cable A cable Brace Orientation (second draw orientation):
positioner positioner
arranged to [9] biases a
bias said cable [8]
cable away (shown in
from the orange)
shooting axis, away from

3
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-15 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 5 of 6

said cable the shooting

separated axis (shown
from said in blue). The 9
shooting axis shortest
by a shortest distance 8
distance as between the
measured cable and 10
perpendicular shooting
to the axis defined
shooting axis; in the brace
or undrawn
condition
(first or
second draw
orientation)
is noted by
the bracket
[10].
the crossbow In the drawn Drawn Orientation (first draw orientation)
having a first orientation,
draw or “first
orientation draw
and a second orientation”
draw the shortest
orientation, distance [10]
the shortest the shortest
distance distance
being greater between the
in the first shooting
draw axis (shown
orientation in blue) is

4
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-15 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 6 of 6

than in the greater than

second draw in the brace
orientation. orientation
or “second
drawn
orientation.” 10

5
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-16 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 10

EXHIBIT 16
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-16 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 10

U.S. Patent No. 10,690,435

Claim Discussion Exemplary Ravin R26

Elements
1. A The bow [1] is a “Brace” or Undrawn Orientation
crossbow crossbow.
comprising:
1

a stock; The crossbow

a bow [1] includes a
portion stock [2]; a
attached to bow portion

1
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-16 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 10

1
the stock, [3] attached to
5
the bow the stock [2],
portion the bow
comprising portion [3]
at least one comprising at
limb and a least one limb
string; [4] and a string
[5], shown in
blue;

2 3
4

a latch A latch [6] is Drawn Orientation

configured configured to
to retain retain the
said string string [5],
in a drawn shown in blue,
condition; in a drawn
position;

2
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-16 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 10

6
5

3
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-16 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 5 of 10

a trigger A trigger [7] is Drawn Orientation

arranged to arranged to
release said release the
latch; latch [6];

a handgrip A handgrip [8]

in is in proximity
proximity to the trigger
to the [7];
trigger;

4
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-16 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 6 of 10

an An extension
extension member [10] is
member positioned
positioned above the
above said stock [2], the
stock, the extension
extension member [10]
member comprising a
comprising cheek rest [11]
a cheek rest and a
and a

5
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-16 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 7 of 10

picatinny picatinny rail

rail, [12], 11 10
12

a height of A height [X] of

the cheek the cheek rest
rest above [11] above the
the stock stock [2] is less
being less than a height
than a [Y] of the
height of picatinny rail
the [12] above the
picatinny stock [2],
rail above
the stock,

6
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-16 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 8 of 10

12
11
X Y

7
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-16 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 9 of 10

the cheek The cheek rest

rest shaped [11] is shaped
differently differently
from the from the
picatinny picatinny rail
12
rail, [12],

11

the The extension

extension member [10]
member and the stock
and the [2] define a
stock cavity [13],
defining a outlined in

8
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-16 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 10 of 10

10 13
cavity, the green, the
latch latch [6]
positioned positioned in
in the the cavity [13].
cavity.

2
6

9
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-17 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 6

EXHIBIT 17
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-17 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 6

U.S. Patent No. 10,480,893

Claim Discussion Exemplary Ravin R500

Elements
1. A The bow [1] Brace or Undrawn Orientation
crossbow is a
1
comprising: crossbow.

1
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-17 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 6

a stock The
comprising crossbow
a structural includes a
portion; stock [2] and
the stock is a
structural
component;

2
a fire The fire
control control
assembly assembly [3]
attached to is attached
the stock; to the stock
[2].

2
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-17 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 4 of 6

2
3

a bow The bow Brace Orientation:

portion portion of
attached to the crossbow 2
the stock, is attached
the bow to the stock.
portion 9
A prod [4]
comprising supports the
a prod, a first and
5/6 7/8
first limb, a second limbs
second [5/6] and
limb, a first and
bowstring second
segment, a rotatable
4
first members
rotatable [7/8] are
member attached to
and a the first and

3
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-17 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 5 of 6

second second
rotatable limbs.
member, A bowstring
the [9] extends
bowstring between the
segment first and
arranged to second
unspool rotatable
from the members
first (shown in
rotatable green) and
member unspools
and the from the
second first and
rotatable second
member as rotatable
the members as
crossbow is the crossbow
drawn; is drawn.
the In a brace or Brace or Undrawn Orientation
crossbow undrawn
comprising orientation,
a drawn the R500
orientation stock [2]
wherein includes an
the first opening
rotatable (circled in
member green) in the
overlaps sidewall that
with the receives the
structural first or

4
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-17 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 6 of 6

portion of second
the stock rotatable
and a member
portion of [7][8]
the first
rotatable In a drawn
member orientation,
passes first and
through a second
sidewall of rotatable
the stock. members
[7][8] are
pulled into a
sidewall of
the stock
(area circled 2
in yellow).

Drawn Orientation

7/8

5
Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-18 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 1 of 7

EXHIBIT 18
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-18 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 2 of 7

U.S. Patent No. 10,866,056

Claim Discussion Exemplary Ravin R500

Elements
1. A The bow [1] Brace or Undrawn Orientation
crossbow is a
1
comprising: crossbow.

1
 Case: 3:22-cv-00004-jdp Document #: 6-18 Filed: 01/28/22 Page 3 of 7

a stock The
comprising crossbow
a structural includes a
portion; stock [2] and
the stock is a
structural
component;

2
a fire The fire
control control
assembly assembly [3]
attached to is attached
the stock; to the stock
[2].

2
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2
3

a bow The bow Brace Orientation:

portion portion of
attached to the crossbow 2
the stock, is attached 9a
the bow to the stock.
portion 10
A prod [4]
comprising supports the
a prod, a first and
5/6 7/8
first limb, a second limbs
second [5/6] and
limb, a first first and
rotatable second
member rotatable
4
arranged members
on the first [7/8] are
limb to attached to 9b
rotate the first and

3
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about a second
rotation limbs. The
axis, a first and
second second
rotatable rotatable
member on members
the second rotate about
limb and a rotation axes
bowstring [9a] and [9b]
extending (shown in
between yellow) as
the first the crossbow
rotatable is drawn. A
member bowstring
and the [10] extends
second between the
rotatable first and
member; second
rotatable
members
(shown in
green).
the In a brace or Brace or Undrawn Orientation
crossbow undrawn
comprising orientation,
a drawn the R500
orientation stock [2]
wherein includes an
the first opening
rotatable (circled in
member green) that

4
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overlaps receives a
with the rotatable
stock such member
that a [7][8]
reference
line In a drawn
oriented orientation,
parallel to first and
the rotation second
axis rotatable
intersects members
the first [7][8] are
rotatable pulled into
member the stock so
and the that a
structural reference 2
portion. line in, for
example, a
location [10] Drawn Orientation
(shown in
yellow)
parallel to an
axis of
rotation [9] 7/8
intersects a
rotatable
member and
the
structural
portion of

5
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the
crossbow.

11 7/8

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EXHIBIT 19
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U.S. Patent No. 8,746,220

Claim Discussion Exemplary Ravin R500

Elements
1. A The R500 is a Brace Condition (e.g. undrawn condition)
compound crossbow
archery bow comprising a
having a brace compound
condition and archery bow
a drawn [1] having a
condition, brace
condition and
a drawn
condition.

Drawn Condition

1
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the bow The bow

comprising: a includes a
riser prod/riser [2]
supporting a supporting a
first limb and first limb [3]
a second limb, and a second
the riser limb [4], the
defining a prod/riser
predetermined defining a
location; predetermined
location [5].

2
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the first limb The first limb

supporting a [3] supports a
first rotatable first rotatable
member, the member [6],
first rotatable which defines
member a first axis of
defining a first rotation [7].
axis of The second
rotation; the limb [4]
second limb supports a
supporting a second
second rotatable
rotatable member [8],
member, the which defines
second a second axis
rotatable of rotation [9].
member
defining a
second axis of
rotation;

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a cable guard A cable guard

attached to [10] is
said riser and attached to the
a power cable prod/riser [2].
extending A power cable
between said [11] extends
first rotatable between the
member and first rotatable
said second member and
rotatable the second
member, said rotatable
cable guard member [8].
biasing said The cable
power cable in guard [10]
a lateral biases the
direction; power cable
[11] in a lateral
direction.
the first axis of The first axis Brace Condition (e.g. undrawn condition)
rotation and of rotation [7]
the second and the
axis of second axis of
rotation rotation [9]
moving with move with
respect to one respect to one
another as the another as the
bow is drawn bow is drawn
from the brace from the brace
condition to condition to
the drawn the drawn
condition; condition.

4
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Drawn Condition

wherein the A reference Brace Condition

bow defines a plane [12] that
reference includes the
plane that first axis of
includes the rotation [7]

5
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first axis of and the

rotation and second axis of
the second rotation [9]
axis of continually
rotation, and traverses
the reference toward the
plane predetermined
continually location [5] as
traverses the bow is
toward the drawn from
predetermined the brace
location as the condition to
bow is drawn the drawn
from the brace condition. The
condition to green line
Drawn Condition
the drawn representing
condition. the reference
plane [12]
continually
moves toward
the
predetermined
location [5]
during draw –
for example,
note the
location of the
green line
with respect to
the scope.