Patent Publication Number: US-2019186865-A1

Title: Crossbow

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/171,391 (Allowed), entitled Cocking Mechanism for a Crossbow, filed Jun. 2, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/071,723 (U.S. Pat. No. 9,383,159), entitled De-Cocking Mechanism for a Bow, filed Nov. 5, 2013, which is continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/799,518 (U.S. Pat. No. 9,255,753), entitled Energy Storage Device for a Bow, filed Mar. 13, 2013 and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/820,792, entitled Cocking Mechanism for a Bow, filed May 8, 2013, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure is directed to a crossbow having first and second limbs with distal portions pivotally coupled to the frame at distal limb mounts and proximal portions pivotally coupled to the frame at proximal limb mounts. First and second cams are attached to, the first and second limbs at locations between the distal portion and the proximal portions. A cocking, mechanism slides on the center rail to engage with a draw string in the released configuration and slides to a retracted position to move the draw string to the drawn configuration and to engage with a trigger assembly. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     BOWS have been used for many years as a weapon for hunting and target shooting. More advanced, bows include cams that increase the mechanical advantage associated with the draw of the bowstring. The cams are configured to yield a decrease in draw force near full draw. 
     In order to cock a bow in preparation for firing the same, the string must be pulled toward a trigger assembly. Sufficient force must be exerted to bend the limbs of the bow which carry the string. Once the string is engaged by the trigger assembly, the trigger safety is activated. Then an arrow may be loaded in the crossbow with its back end in contact with the string, the trigger safety may be disengaged, and the trigger pulled to release or shoot the arrow. 
     The force required to cock the bow in this fashion has consistently been, a problem for users. Specifically, despite the use of compound bows with cams that attach the string to the limbs, the force required to cock a typical bow often exceeds one hundred pounds. As a result, many devices have been designed to assist in the cocking of a crossbow. 
     The most sophisticated of these devices is an essentially automatic cocking, machine which is attached to the stock of a bow and by means of a motorized rope system. In lieu of being motorized, these cocking devices can also be operated by means of a hand crank. While these automatic or hand cranked devices operate satisfactorily, they are somewhat expensive, add additional weight, and they are bulky when attached to the stock of the bow. 
     Various crossbow cocking, systems are shown, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,942,861 (Bozek), U.S. Pat. No. 5,243,956 (Luehring), U.S. Pat. No. 7,624,725 (Choma), and U.S. Pat. No. 8,439,024 (Barnett). 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure is directed to a crossbow having first and second limbs with distal portions pivotally coupled to a frame at distal limb mounts and proximal portions pivotally coupled to the frame at proximal limb mounts. First and second cams are attached to the first and second limbs at locations between the distal portion and the proximal portions. First and second cams having first and second string journals and first and second power cable journals are attached to the first and second limbs at a fixed positions, and rotate around first and second axis, at locations between the distal portion and the proximal portions. A draw string is received in the first and second draw string journals, wherein the draw string unwinds from the first and second draw string journals as it translates from a released configuration to, a drawn configuration. First and second power cables are received in the first and second power cable journals. A cocking mechanism slides on the, center rail to engage with the draw string in the released configuration and slides to a retracted position to move the draw string to the drawn configuration and to engage with a trigger assembly. 
     In one embodiment, the cocking mechanism is coupled to a threaded shaft extending along the center rail, wherein rotation of the threaded shaft causes the cocking mechanism to move forward, and back along the center rail. The cocking mechanism preferably includes one or more of a rotary crank, a lever, or a motor that rotates the threaded shaft. 
     In another embodiment, the cocking mechanism is coupled to a belt extending along the center rail between a distal pulley assembly and proximal pulley assembly, wherein rotation of the belt around the distal and proximal pulley assemblies causes the cocking mechanism to move forward and back along the center rail. The belt can be one of a tooth belt, a smooth belt, or a chain. Again, the cocking mechanism preferably includes one of a rotary crank, a lever, or a motor that rotates the pulley assemblies. 
     In another embodiment, the cocking mechanism includes at least one cocking, rope that moves the cocking, mechanism and the draw string from the released configuration to the drawn configuration. 
     In another embodiment, the cocking mechanism includes channels configured to receive the draw string during movement between the released configuration and the drawn configuration. The cocking mechanism preferably includes a de-cocking actuator that releases the draw string from the trigger assembly onto the channels so the user can move the draw string from the drawn configuration to the released configuration. 
     The cocking mechanism is preferably captured to slide in the center rail. 
     In another embodiment, couplings are interposed between at least one of the distal portions or the proximal portions of the first and second limbs and the respective limb mounts that provides limb relief as the draw string is moved to the drawn configuration. The couplings preferably include rotating translation arms pivotally attached to one of the distal portions or the proximal portions of the first and second limbs and the respective limb mounts. In another embodiment, rotation of the rotating translation arms are synchronized by a synchronization assembly. The couplings may include pivoting couplings, linkage couplings, rotating couplings, sliding couplings, elastomeric couplings, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the frame provides limb relief between the proximal portion and the distal portion of the limbs. 
     The distal and proximal portions of the first and second limbs can be coupled to the riser or the center rail. The first and second limbs can be arranged in a concave or convex configuration with respect to the frame. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an energy storage system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  is an, alternate perspective view of the energy storage system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a front view of the energy storage system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a bottom view of the energy storage system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a sectional view showing the draw string of the energy storage system of  FIG. 1  in a released configuration. 
         FIG. 6  is a sectional view showing the power strings of the energy storage system of  FIG. 1  in the release configuration. 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of the energy storage system of  FIG. 1  in a released configuration in accordance with the embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8  is a top view of the energy storage system of  FIG. 1  in a drawn configuration in accordance with the embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 9  is a sectional view showing the draw string of the energy storage system of  FIG. 1  in a drawn configuration. 
         FIG. 10  is a sectional view showing the power strings of the energy storage, system of  FIG. 1  in the drawn configuration. 
         FIG. 11  is a bottom view of the energy storage system of  FIG. 1  showing a timing belt in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12A  is a sectional view of a center support with a cocking, system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12B  is perspective view of the center support of  FIG. 12A . 
         FIG. 13  is a sectional view of the cocking mechanism of  FIG. 12A  in a fully open configuration in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of a ratcheting mechanism for a cocking mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 15  is a sectional view of the ratcheting mechanism of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 16  is a plan view of an alternate energy storage device for an energy storage system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 17  is a bow with the energy storage device of  FIG. 16  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 18  illustrates an energy storage portion for a bow with convex limbs in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 19A and 19B  an energy storage portion for a bow with a center support that, provides limb relief in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 20A and 20B  illustrate a conventional energy storage portion of a conventional bow with a pulley system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 21A-21C  illustrate an alternate cocking mechanism for a bow in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a removable cocking mechanism for a bow in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 23A-23C  illustrate a belt-driven cocking mechanism for a bow in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 23D-23F  are perspective views of the belt-driven cocking mechanism of  FIGS. 23A-23C , respectively. 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of an alternate bow with a combined cocking and de-cocking mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of the bow of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 26A  is a top view of an energy storage portion of the bow of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 26B  is a bottom view of an energy storage portion of the bow of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of a trigger assembly with a draw string in a drawn configuration in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the trigger assembly of  FIG. 27  being, de-cocked in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 29A and 29B  are perspective views of a traveler for a bow in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view of the trigger assembly of  FIG. 27  being cocked by a cocking mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIGS. 1-4  are perspective views of an energy storage device  50  for a projectile launching system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Center support  52  includes a first pair of distal and proximal limb mounts  54 A,  56 A located on a first side  58 A of center plane  60  and a second pair of distal and proximal limb mounts  54 B,  56 B located on a second side  58 B on the second side of the center plane  60 . 
     The center support  52  can be a single piece or a multi-component construction. In the illustrated embodiment, the center support  52  includes a pair of machined center rails  52 A,  52 B coupled together with fasteners, and a pair of finger guards  53 A,  53 B also attached to the center rails  52 A,  52 B using fasteners. The components  52 ,  53  are preferably constructed from a light weight metal, such as high grade aluminum. As will be discussed below, the center support  52  will include a variety of additional features, such as cut-outs and mounting holes, to accommodate other components such as a trigger mechanism, cocking mechanism, stock, arrow storage, and the like (see e.g.,  FIG. 112B ). 
     In the illustrated embodiment, limbs  64 A,  66 A are located on first side  58 A of the center plane  60  and limbs  64 B,  66 B are located on the second side  58 B. Proximal portions  68 A,  68 B (“ 68 ”) of the limbs  64 A,  66 A are coupled to the proximal limb mount  54 A in the finger guard  53 A, such as by pivot pin  70  and pivot brackets  72 . Proximal portions  74 A,  74 B (“ 74 ”) of the limbs  64 B,  6613  are coupled to the proximal limb mounts  56 B in the finger guard  53 B by pivot pin  70  and;pivot brackets  72 . As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the proximal portions  68 ,  74  rotate on axes  86 A,  86 B (“ 86 ”) relative to the center support  52  to provide a pivoting or rotating coupling. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, translation arms  62 A,  62 B (“ 62 ”) are pivotally attached to the distal limb mounts  54 A,  54 B in the finger guards  53 A,  5313 , respectively. Distal portions  76 A,  76 B (“ 76 ”) of the limbs  64 A,  66 A are coupled to the translation arm mount  78 A, such as by pivot pin  70  and pivot brackets  72 . Distal portions  80 A,  80 B (“ 80 ”) of the limbs  64 B,  66 B are coupled to the translation arm mount  78 B by pivot pin  70  and pivot brackets  72 . The distal portions  76 ,  80  rotate on axes  82 A,  82 B, (“ 82 ”) relative to the translation arm mounts  78 A,  78 B, respectively. The translation arms  62 A,  62 B rotate on axes  84 A,  84 B (“ 84 ”), respectively, relative to the center support  52  (see,  FIG. 3 ). The translation arms  62  to provide a linkage coupling between the limbs  64 ,  66  and the center support  52 . 
     As used herein, “coupled” or “coupling” refers to a connection, between a limb, and a center support. Both positive coupling and dynamic coupling are possible. “Positively coupled” or “positive coupling” refers to a limb continuously engaged with a center support. “Dynamically coupled” or “dynamic coupling” refers to a limb engage with a center support only when a certain level of tension is applied to a draw string. The coupling can be a rigid coupling, a sliding coupling, a pivoting coupling, a linkage coupling, a rotating coupling, an elastomeric coupling, or a combination thereof. 
     For example, in the embodiment of  FIG. 1 , both ends of the limbs  64 ,  66  are positively coupled to the center support  52 . The proximal ends  68 ,  74  use a rotating or pivoting coupling and the distal portions  76 ,  80  use a linkage coupling. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 8 , the inward deformation of the limbs  64 ,  66  forces the, translation arms  62  to rotate in distal directions  144  around pivot axes  84  to extended position  146 . The translation arms  62  provide limb relief between the distal portions  74  and the proximal portion  68  of the limbs  64 ,  66 . As used herein, “limb relief” means displacement between a proximal portion of a limb relative to a distal portion of the limb when a certain level of tension is applied to a draw string. The displacement can be translation, rotation, flexure, or a combination thereof, occurring at either or both ends of the limbs. The limb relief is typically provided by the couplings and/or the center support  52 . 
     Various structures for providing limb relief are discussed herein. For example, limb relief can be provided by locating pivot arms  62  between proximal portions  68 ,  74  of the limbs  64 ,  66  and the proximal limb mounts  54 . In yet another embodiment, limb relief is provided by pivot arms  62  located at both the distal portions  76 ,  80  and the proximal portions  68 ,  74  of the limbs  64 ,  66 . 
     In an alternate embodiment, the translation arms  62  are replaced with elastomeric members that are rigidly attached to the finger guard  53 . Limb, relief is achieved by elastic deformation of the elastomeric translation arms. In another embodiment, limb relief is provided by a combination of deformation and rotation of the elastomeric translation arms  62  (see e.g.,  FIG. 16 ). 
     In yet another embodiment, one or both of the distal and proximal limb mounts  54 ,  56  are configured as slots with an elastomeric bushing to provide the limb relief. 
     In yet another embodiment, limb relief is provided by the center support  52  (see e.g.,  FIGS. 19A and 19B ). 
     First pulley assembly  90 A is pivotally coupled to the first limbs  64 A,  66 A at a location between the proximal and distal portions  68 ,  76 . Second pulley assembly  90 B is pivotally coupled to the second limbs  64 B,  66 B at a location between the proximal and the distal, portions  74 ,  80 . As best illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the first and second pulley assemblies  90 A,  90 B rotate around axes  94 A,  94 B. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pulley assembly  90 A is located between the limbs  64 A,  66 A and the second pulley assembly  90 B is located between the limbs  64 B,  66 B. 
     As used herein, the, term “pulley” is refers generically to a member rotating around an axis that is designed to support movement of a flexible member, such as a rope, string, belt, chain, and the like. Pulleys typically have a groove, channel or journal located between two flanges around at least a portion of its circumference that guides the flexible member. Pulleys can be round, such as a drum or a sheave, or non-round, such as a cam. The axis of rotation can be located concentrically or eccentrically relative to the pulley. 
     As best illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the pulleys  90 A,  90 B include draw string journals  96 A,  96 B (“ 96 ”) configured to receive draw string  100 . The draw string journals  96  are located in plane  98  that is located above top surface  102  of the center support  52 . As will be discussed below, the draw string journals  96  are arranged so that the string  100  travels close to the top surface  102  of the center support  52  between a release configuration  130  and a drawn configuration  140  (See  FIGS. 7 and 8 ). The pulleys  90  also include power string journals  104 A,  104 B (“ 104 ”) configured to receive power strings  106 A,  106 B that are located below and, generally parallel to the draw string journals  96 . As used herein, “string” refers generically to any flexible member, such as woven and non-woven filaments of synthetic or natural materials, cables, belts, chains, and the like. 
       FIG. 5  is a sectional view of the energy storage device  50  showing the path of the draw string  100  on the pulley assemblies  90  in the released configuration  130 . The draw string  100  wraps around distal portions of the draw string journals  96  in direction  108  and the ends of the draw string  100  are attached to anchors  110 A,  110 B on the pulleys  90 A,  90 B, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the draw string  100  crosses over the center support  52  only once. 
       FIG. 6  is a sectional view of the energy storage device  50  showing the path of the power strings  106 A,  106 B in the release configuration  130 . The power strings  106  attach to the center support  52  by anchors  112 A,  112 B and wrap around distal portions of the power string pulleys  105 A,  105 B, respectively. The opposite ends of the power strings  106 A,  106 B are attached to the pulleys  90 A,  90 B (not shown) by anchors  114 A,  114 B, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the power strings  106  do not cross over the center support  52 . 
     The geometric profiles of the draw string journals  96  and the power string journals  104  contribute to let-off at, full draw. The configuration of the limbs  64 ,  66  and the limb relief of the limbs  64 ,  66  to the center support  52  also contribute to let-off A more detailed discussion of cams suitable for use in bows is provided in U.S. Pat. No. 7,305,979 (Yehle), which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
       FIG. 7  is a top view of the energy storage device  50  in a released configuration  130  with the draw string  100  in its forward most position relative to the distal end  132  of the center support  52 . Static tension between the draw string  100  and the power strings  106  is opposed by slight flexure of the limbs  64 ,  66  to maintain the translation arms  62  in retracted position  134 . 
     In the retracted position  134  the translation arms  62  are rotated back toward proximal end  136  of the center support, with the limbs  64 ,  66  in a generally concave configuration with respect to the center support  52 . In the release configuration  130  distance  128  between the proximal limb mounts  56  and the translation arm mounts  78  is at a minimum and width  138  of the energy storage device  50  is at its maximum. 
       FIG. 8  is a top view of the energy storage device  50  with the draw string  100  in a drawn configuration  140 . The process of drawing the draw string  100  toward the proximal end  136  of the center support  52  simultaneously causes the pulley assemblies  90  to rotate in directions  142  and the, limbs  64 ,  66  to deform inward toward the center support  52 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the limb relief increases the distance  148  between the proximal limb mounts  56  and the translation arm mounts  78  to be greater than the distance  128  (see  FIG. 5 ). In the drawn configuration  140  distance  148  between the proximal limb mounts  56  and the translation arm mounts  78  is at a maximum and width  150  of the energy storage device  50  is at a minimum. The distance  148  in the drawn configuration  140  is greater than the distance  128  in the released configuration  130 . The width  150  in the drawn configuration is less than the width  138  in the released configuration  130 . 
     Operation of the illustrated embodiment includes locating an arrow or bolt in groove  162  with knock engaged with the draw string  100  in location  164 . Release of the draw string  100  causes the limbs  64 ,  66  to return to the released configuration  130 , thereby launching the bolt in direction  166 . 
     As best illustrated in  FIG. 8 , the finger guards  53  is configured to extend to at least space  101 , which corresponds to the space traversed by the draw string  100  from the drawn configuration  140  to the released configuration  130 . The finger guard  53  is configured to reduce the chance of a user&#39;s finger extending up from the bottom of the center support  52  and into the path  103  of the draw string  100  from the drawn configuration  140  to the released configuration  130 . In the preferred embodiment, the finger guard  53  completely blocks access from the bottom of the center support  52  to the space  101 . In another embodiment, gap  105  between the draw string  100  and the finger guards  53  is less than about 0.5 cm. 
     The energy storage device  50  typically includes a trigger assembly to retain the draw string  100  in the drawn configuration  140  and a stock located near the proximal end  136  of the center support  52 . Most trigger assemblies include a dry fire mechanism that prevents release of the draw string  100  unless a bolt is positioned in the center support  52 . Suitable trigger assemblies and stocks are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,240,299 (Kronengold et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 8,104,461 (Kempf): U.S. Pat. No. 8,033,275 (Bendar et al.):U.S. Pat No. 8,020,543 (Maleski et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 7,836,871 (Kempf); U.S. Pat. No. 7,810,480 (Shepley et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 7,770,567 (Yehle); U.S. Pat. No. 7,743,760 (Woodland); U.S. Pat. No. 7,363,921 (Kempf); U.S. Pat. No. 7,328,693 (Kempf); U.S. Pat. No. 7,174,884 (Kempf et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 6,736,123 (Summers et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 6,425,386 (Adkins); U.S. Pat. No. 6,205,990 (Adkins); U.S. Pat. No. 5,884,614 (Darlington et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 5,649,520 (Bednar); U.S. Pat. No. 5,598,829 (Bednar); U.S. Pat. No. 5,596,976 (Wailer); U.S. Pat. No. 5,085,200 (Horton et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 4,877,008 (Troubridge); U.S. Pat. No. 4,693,228 (Simonds et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 4,479,480 (Holt); U.S. Pat. No. 4.192,281 (King); and U.S. Pat. No. 4,030,473 (Puriyear), which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
       FIG. 9  is a sectional view of  FIG. 8  with the center support  52  removed to better illustrate the path of the draw string  100  in the drawn configuration  140 . The pulley assemblies  90  are rotated in direction  91  until the draw string is fully drawn. 
       FIG. 10  is a sectional view of  FIG. 8  with the draw string pulleys removed to illustrate the path of the power strings  106  in the drawn configuration  140 . The power strings  106  wrap around the power pulleys  105  in a first direction and around the pivot axes  94  of the pulley assemblies  90  in the opposite direction, terminating at anchors  112 , as discussed above. 
       FIG. 11  is a bottom sectional view of the energy storage device  50  with synchronization assembly  158  exposed. In the illustrated embodiment, the synchronization assembly  158  includes timing belt  160  wrapped around pulleys  162  that are coupled to the rotation of the translation arms  62 . The timing belt  160  synchronizes the rotation of the translation arms  62  (see  FIG. 6A ) between the retracted position  134  and the extended position  146 . In the illustrated embodiment, the timing belt  460  is a toothed belt twisted into a figure eight configuration. Alternate synchronization assemblies can include gears, belts, cables, chains, linkages, and the like. 
       FIG. 12A  is a sectional view of an alternate center support  52 ′ modified to include cocking mechanism  200  shown in a closed and locked configuration  202  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.  FIG. 12B  is a perspective view of the center support  52 ′ with the cocking mechanism  200  in a partially opened configuration. 
     The center support  52 ′ is machined to create opening  204  that receives the cocking mechanism  200 . The cocking mechanism  200  includes an elongated tube  206  pivotally attached to the center support  52 ′ at location  208  near the distal end  132 . Arm  210  pivotally couples the elongated tube  206  to traveler  212  that slides back and forth along axis  216  in channel  214  formed in the center support  52 ′. The traveler  212  includes finger  218  that captures the draw string  100  to move it from the released configuration  130  to the drawn configuration  140  and into engagement with a trigger assembly (not shown) In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated tube  206  includes a conventional accessory rail  220 , used to attach various accessories to the center support  52 ′, such as forward grips, laser sights, and the like. 
       FIG. 13  is a sectional view of the center support  52 ′ in a fully open configuration  222 . The arm  210  advances the traveler  212  to the distal end  132  of the center support  52 ′ to capture the draw string  100 . In order to cock the energy storage device  50 , the user grasps proximal end  224  of the elongated tube  206  and returns it to the closed and locked configuration  202 . Latch  226  engaged with pin  228  on the center support  52 ′ to lock the cocking mechanism  200  in the closed and locked configuration  202 . 
     The limbs  64 ,  66  resist movement of the elongated tube  206  back to the closed and locked configuration  202 . If the user inadvertently releases the elongated tube  206  during this process, it will snap back to the fully open configuration  222  with considerable force. Ratcheting mechanism  230  prevents this outcome. 
     As best illustrated in  FIGS. 14 and 15 , the ratcheting mechanism  230  includes pawl  232  pivotally attached to the arm  210 . Spring  234  biases distal end  236  of the pawl  232  into engagement with tooth members  238  that are mounted to the elongated tube  206 . As the elongated tube  206  is moved&#39;to the closed and located configuration  202 , the pawl  232  rocks up and down around pivot  240  to sequentially engage with teeth  242 . As a result, inadvertent release of the elongated tube  206  does not result in the cocking mechanism  200  returning to the fully open configuration  222 . 
     Also illustrated in  FIGS. 14 and 15  is, additional detail for the latch  226 . Spring  244  biases the latch  226  in a locked configuration  246 . As the elongated tube  206  is pushed to the closed and locked configuration  222 , the latch  226  is pushed by the pin  228  in direction  248  until the pin  228  clears tip  250 , at which point the latch  226  returns to the locked configuration  246 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 13 , operation of the pawl  232  and the latch  226  is simultaneously controlled by thumb trigger  252  located near proximal end  224  of the elongated tube  206 . In the illustrated embodiment, cable  254  is attached to the thumb trigger  252  and both of the pawl  232  and the latch  226 . Depressing the thumb trigger  252  in direction  256  disengages the pawl  232  from the teeth  242  and the latch  226  from the pin  228 , respectively. Various alternate cocking mechanisms can he used to pull the draw string  100  to the drawing configuration  130 , such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,624,725 (Choma); U.S. Pat. No. 7,204,242 (Dziekan); U.S. Pat. No. 6,913,007 (Bednar); U.S. Pat. No. 4,942,861 (Bozek); U.S. Pat. No. 6,799,566 (Malucelli); U.S. Pat. No. 6,705,304 (Pauluhn); U.S. Pat. No. 6,286,496 (Bednar); U.S. Pat. No. 6,095,128 (Bednar); and U.S. Pat. No. 4,719,897 (Gaudreau), which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
       FIG. 16  illustrates an alternate energy storage device  260  with alternate limb relief in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The center support  262 , the draw string  264 , and the power stings  266 A,  266 B are removed for clarity (see  FIG. 17 ). 
     Distal portions  270 A,  270 B (“ 270 ”) of limbs  272 A,  272 B (“ 272 ”) are attached to the device  260  at locations  274 A,  274 B ( 274 ″), respectively. The attachment at the locations  274  can employ various couplings (e.g., a rigid coupling, a pivoting coupling, a linkage coupling, a rotating coupling, a sliding coupling, an elastomeric coupling, or a combination thereof). Proximal portions  276 A,  276 B (“ 276 ”) of the limbs  272  are configured to engage with portions  278 A,  278 B (“ 278 ”) of the device  260 , respectively. It is possible to reverse this configuration by locating the portions  278  at the distal end of the device  260 . 
     When the draw string  264  is in the drawn configuration  140 , the limbs  272  deform in direction  280  and the proximal portions  276  translate along portions  278  in direction  282  to provide limb relief through a sliding coupling. In one embodiment, the portions  278  have a curvilinear shape to increase let-off when the draw string  264  is in the fully drawn configuration  140 . 
     In another embodiment, the proximal portions  276  are dynamically coupled to the portions  278  of the device  260 . The proximal portions  278  are not attached to the device  260 . For example, space  286  may exist between the proximal portions  276  of the limbs  272  and the portions  278  when the draw string  264  is in the released configuration  130 . As the limbs  272  deformed while the draw string  264  is drawn, however, the proximal portions  276  of the limbs  272  engage with the portions  278  on the device  260  and are displaced in the direction  282  in a combination of a dynamic coupling and a sliding coupling. 
     In another embodiment, the proximal portions  276  are positively coupled to the portions  278  by sliding couplings  284 A,  284 B (“ 284 ”). One advantage of the positive couplings  284  is that when the draw string  264  is released, the proximal portions  276  are prevented from lifting off of the portions  278  on the device  260 , reducing noise. 
     In another embodiment, the proximal portions  276  of the limbs  272  are fixedly attached to the portions  278  of the device  260  as shown. The portions  278  are constructed from, an elastomeric material configured to deform as the limbs  272  are deformed in the direction  280  to provide limb relief via an elastomeric coupling. 
     Any of the limb relief embodiments disclosed herein may be used alone or in combination. 
       FIG. 17  is a perspective view of bow  300  with the energy storage device  260  in accordance with an embodiment of the, present disclosure. Proximal end  302  of the center support  262  includes stock  304  and trigger assembly  306  configured to releasably retain draw string  264  in the drawing configuration  140 . Cocking assembly  308  is mounted at bottom of center support  262  as discussed herein. 
       FIG. 18  is a schematic illustration of an alternate energy storage device  320  with convex limbs  322 A,  322 B (“ 322 ”) with respect to center support  324  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The center support  324  includes distal and proximal spacers  326 A,  326 B (“ 326 ”) that retain the limbs  322  in a spaced configuration. 
     The convex limbs  322  deflect inward in directions  330  toward the center support  324  as the draw string (not shown) is moved to the drawing configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, limb relief is provided by translation arms  328 , although any of the, limb relief mechanism disclosed herein may be used. 
       FIGS. 19A and 19B  illustrate an alternate energy storage device  350  in which limb relief is provided by center support  352  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Center support  352  includes a distal portion  354 A and a proximal portion  354 B connected by displacement mechanism  356 . The displacement mechanism  356  permits the distal portion  354  to be displaced relative to the proximal portion  354 B along axis  358 . The displacement mechanism  356  may be an elastomeric member, a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder, or a variety of other structures configured to bias the distal portion  354 A toward the proximal portion  354 B along the axis  358 . 
     Distal ends  360 A,  360 B (“ 360 ”) of limbs  362 A,  362 B (“ 362 ”) are attached to the distal portion  354 A of the center support  352 . Proximal ends  364 A,  364 B (“ 364 ”) of limbs  362  are attached to the proximal portion  354 B of the center support  352 . As the draw string (not shown) is moved to the drawing configuration  140 , the limbs  362  flatten so that distance  366  between distal ends  360  and, proximal ends  364  of the limbs  362  increases to provide limb relief As the draw string is released, the displacement mechanism  356  biases the distal portion  354 A toward the proximal portion  354 B to the configuration shown in  FIG. 19A . 
       FIGS. 20A and 20B  are top views of an energy storage portion  380  of a conventional bow with a pulley system  382  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The pulley system  382  includes pulleys  384 A,  384 B (“ 384 ”) attached to ends of limbs  386 A,  386 B (“ 386 ”). Draw string  388  and power strings  390 A,  390 B (“ 390 ”) wrap around the pulleys  384  and attach to the center support  392 . The power strings  390  do not cross-over the center support  388 . Consequently, only the draw string  384  crosses over the center support  388 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the power strings  390  and the draw string  388  are a single structure with ends  394  attached to the center support  392 . In an alternate embodiment, the power strings  390  and the draw strings  388  can be discrete structures, such as illustrated in  FIG. 3 . The embodiment of  FIG. 20B  reverses the wrap of the power strings  390  and draw string  388  around the pulleys  384  in directions  396  to increase the draw length. 
       FIGS. 21A-21C  illustrate an alternate cocking mechanism  400  for a bow  402  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The present cocking mechanism  400  can be used with any of the bows disclosed herein. The cocking mechanism is preferably located in a recess in the center support  406  (see e.g.,  FIG. 22 ) for optimum weight distribution. 
     Threaded shaft  404  is mounted in or on center support  406  between distal pivot assembly  408  and proximal pivot assembly  410  behind or proximal of the energy storage assembly  403  of the bow  402 . The threaded shaft  404  can be a ball screw, lead screw, power screw, translation screw, or the like. The threaded shaft  404  can be constructed from a variety of materials, such as light weight metals like aluminum or polymeric materials such as nylon or high density polyethylene. The threaded shaft  404  can have a thread pitch in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 2.0 inches. 
     Traveler  412  traverses axis  414  as the threaded shaft  404  is rotated. Rotation of the threaded shaft  404  can be effectuated from either the distal or proximal pivot assemblies  408 ,  410 . In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal pivot assembly  410  includes a mechanism for rotating the threaded shaft  404 , such as a rotary crank, a lever, or an electromagnetic device, such as a motor. In one embodiment, the proximal pivot assembly  410  includes pivot bearing  410 A, a motor  410 B, and a battery  410 C. The motor  410 B and/or battery  410 C can either be part of the proximal pivot assembly  410  or separate component. 
     In one another embodiment, the motor  410 B and battery  4100  releasably engages with the proximal pivot assembly  410  to operate the threaded shaft  404 . When not required, the motor and battery are removed from the bow  402  to reduce weight. In another embodiment, the user carries the battery  410 C separate from the bow  402 . The battery  410 C can be plugged into the proximal pivot assembly  410  to power the motor  410 B as needed. 
       FIG. 21A  illustrates the draw string  100  in the release configuration  130 . In operation the threaded shaft  404  is rotated to advance the traveler  412  in direction  416  until drawstring catch  418  engages the draw string  100 , as, illustrated in  FIG. 21B . The drawstring catch  418  preferably slides in a slot formed in the center support  406  (see e.g.,  FIGS. 12A ). 
     Rotation of the threaded shaft  404  is then reversed to move the traveler  412  in the opposite direction  420  until the draw string  100  is in the drawn configuration  140 , as illustrated in  FIG. 21C . This process can also be reverse to un-draw the draw string  100  from the drawn configuration  140  to the released configuration  130 . 
     In one embodiment, the traveler  412  brings the draw string  100  into engagement with a trigger assembly (see e.g.,  FIG. 17 ). The drawstring catch  418  then releases the draw string  100 , which is held in place by the trigger assembly. In another embodiment, the drawstring catch  418  operates as the trigger assembly. Alternate cocking mechanisms for a bow are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,784,453 (Yehle); U.S. Pat. No. 6,913,007 (Bednar); U.S. Pat. No. 6,799,566 (Malucelli); and U.S. Pat. No. 5,220,906 (Choma), which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
     In one embodiment, a brake system is provided to control rotation of the threaded shaft  404 , such as a friction brake or an eddy current brake. The brake system prevents the traveler  412  from being moved in the direction  416  by the force of the draw string  100 . 
     In another embodiment, a ratcheting system or one-way bearing is used to control movement of the traveler  412  along the length of the center support  406 . (see e.g.,  FIGS. 14 and 15 ). For example, if the battery lacks sufficient power to move the traveler  412  to the fully drawing configuration, the ratcheting system or one-way bearing prevents the draw string  100  from rapidly returning to the released configuration  130 . 
       FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a center support  420  for a bow (see e.g.,  FIG. 21A ) with a removable cocking mechanism  422  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The cocking mechanism  422  includes a distal pivot assembly  424 , a proximal pivot assembly  426 , and a traveler  428  with a drawstring catch  430  that travels on threaded shaft  432 , as discussed above. The proximal pivot assembly  426  includes a pivot bearing  434 , a motor  436 , and a battery  438 . 
     In one embodiment, the distal pivot assembly  424  is inserted in proximal end  440  of the center support  420 . The cocking, mechanism  422  is then rotated in direction  442  into engagement with opening  444  in the center support  420 . After the drawstring  100  is moved to the drawing configuration  140  (see  FIG. 21C ), the cocking mechanism  422  can be removed. In another embodiment, the proximal pivot assembly  426  is inserted into the center support  420  first. 
       FIGS. 23A-23F  illustrate an alternate cocking mechanism  450  for a bow  452  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The present cocking mechanism  450  can be used with any of the bows disclosed herein. The cocking mechanism is preferably located in a recess in the center support  456  (see e.g.,  FIG. 22 ) for optimum weight distribution. 
     Belt  454  is mounted in or on center support  456  between distal pulley assembly  458  with pulley  458 A and proximal pulley assembly  460  with pulley  460 A behind or proximal of the energy storage assembly  453  of the bow  452 . The belt  454  can be a tooth or smooth belt, a chain, or the like. The belt  454  can be constructed from a variety of materials, such as light weight metals like aluminum or polymeric materials such as nylon or high density polyethylene. The teeth on the belt  454  can have a pitch in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 2.0 inches. In one embodiment, the drive pulley  458 A.  460 A includes corresponding teeth. 
     Traveler  462  traverses axis  464  as the belt  454  is rotated around the pulleys  458 A,  460 A. Rotation of the belt  454  can be effectuated from either the distal or proximal pulley  458 A,  460 A. In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal pulley assembly  460  includes a mechanism for rotating the pulley  460 A, such as a rotary crank, a lever, or an electromagnetic device, such as a motor. In one embodiment, the proximal pulley assembly  460  includes a motor  460 B and a battery  460 C. The motor  460 B and/or battery  460 C can either be part of the proximal pulley assembly  460  or separate component. 
     In one another embodiment, the motor  460 B and battery  460 C releasably engages with the proximal pulley assembly  460  to operate the pulley  460 A. When not required, the motor and battery are removed from the bow  452  to reduce weight. In another embodiment, the user carries the battery  460 C separate from the bow  452 . The battery  460 C can be plugged into the proximal pivot assembly  460  to power the motor  460 B as needed. 
       FIGS. 23A and 23D  illustrate the draw string  100  in the release configuration  130 . In operation, the pulleys  458 A,  460 A rotate to move the belt  454  and advance the traveler  462  in direction  466  until drawstring catch  468  engages the draw string  100 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 23B and 23E . The drawstring catch  468  preferably slides in a slot formed in the center support  456  (see e.g.,  FIGS. 12A ). 
     Rotation of the belt  454  around the pulleys  458 A,  460 A is then reversed to move the traveler  462  in the opposite direction  470  until the, draw string  100  is in the drawn configuration  140 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 23C and 23F . This process can also be reverse to un-draw the draw string  100  from the drawn configuration  140  to the released configuration  130 . 
     In one embodiment, the traveler  462  brings the draw string  100  into engagement with a trigger assembly (see e.g.,  FIG. 17 ). The drawstring catch  468  then releases the draw string  100 , which is held in place by the trigger assembly. In another embodiment, the drawstring catch  468  operates as the trigger assembly. 
     In one embodiment, a brake system is provided to control rotation of the belt  454 , such as a friction brake or an eddy current brake. The brake system prevents the traveler  462  from being moved in the direction  466  by the force of the draw string  100 . 
     In another embodiment, a ratcheting system or one-way bearing is used to control movement of the traveler  462  along the length of the center support  456 . (See e.g.,  FIGS. 14 and 15 ). For example, if the battery lacks sufficient power to move the traveler  462  to the fully drawing configuration, the ratcheting system or one-way bearing prevents the draw string  100  from rapidly returning to the released configuration  130 . 
       FIGS. 24 and 25  are perspective views of an alternate bow  500  with an energy storage device  502  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Trigger assembly  504  with collapsible stock  506  is attached to the energy storage device  502  by center support  512 . Stirrup  508  is attached at front end to secure the bow  500  to assist in the cocking procedure. 
     In operation, the stirrup  508  is rotated in direction  510  until it is parallel to center support  512 . The user&#39;places a foot in the stirrup  508  and pulls handles  514  on the cord  516 . As will be discussed below, traveler  518  moves the draw string  520  (see  FIG. 26A and 26B ) into engagement with the trigger assembly  504  (see  FIGS. 27 and 30 ). After cocking the bow  500  the stirrup  508  can be folded back to the illustrated position to serve as a bi-pod for firing the bow  500 . 
     In an alternate embodiment, one of the cocking mechanisms  200 ,  400 ,  422 ,  450  disclosed herein can be used to move the traveler  518  back and forth along the center support  512  between the released configuration  130  and the drawn configuration  540 . The traveler  518  is preferably releasably engaged with one of the travelers  212 ,  412 ,  428 ,  462  on, the corresponding cocking, mechanisms  200 ,  400 ,  422 ,  450  until the draw string is positioned as desired configuration. 
       FIGS. 26A and 26B  are top and bottom views of the energy storage device  502 . Draw string  520  extends between pulleys  530 A,  530 B (“ 530 ”). In the illustrated embodiment, the draw string  520  is in the released configuration  130 . Power strings  532 A,  532 B (“ 532 ”) extend outward from attachment points  534 A,  534 B (“ 534 ”) on center support  512  to attachment points  536 A,  536 B (“ 536 ”) on the bottom of the pulleys  530 A,  530 B, respectively. The power strings  532  do not cross over the center support  512 . In the illustrated embodiment, the no timing belt is provided between the translation arms  538 A,  538 B. Elimination of the timing belt is particularly effected when used with round or generally round pulleys  530 . 
       FIG. 27  is a perspective view of the trigger assembly  504  with the housing removed. Draw string  520  is retained in the drawn configuration  540  by a pair of fingers  542  on catch  544  in closed position  546 . The catch  544  is biased to rotate in direction  548  around pin  550  by spring  552 . Absent an external force, the catch  544  automatically releases the draw string  520 . 
     In cocked position  555 , shoulder  554  on sear  556  provides the external force to retain the catch  544  in the closed position  546 . The sear  556  is biased in direction  558  by spring  560  to retain the catch  544  in the closed position  546 . 
     Shoulder  562  on safety  564  retains the sear  556  in the cocked position  555  and the catch  544  in the closed position  546 . Safety button  566  is used to rotate the safety  564  in direction  568  from safe position  565  to free position  567  with the shoulder  562  disengaged from the sear  556  (see  FIG. 28 ). 
     Spring  570  biases dry fire lockout  572  toward the intersection of the draw string  520  with the catch  544 . Distal end  574  of the dry fire lockout  572  engages arm  576  on the sear  556  in a lockout position  571  to prevent the sear  556  from releasing the catch  544 . Even if the safety  564  is disengaged from the sear  556 , the distal end  574  of the dry fire lockout  572  locks the sear  556  in the cocked position  555  to prevent the catch  544  from releasing the draw string  520 . 
     In use, nock  582  on a bolt  580 , such as those illustrated in  FIG. 25 , is positioned on the center support  512  and engages the draw string  520  between the fingers  542  of the catch  544 . The nock  582  also displaces the dry fire lockout  572  in direction  584  so that the distal end  574  releases the arm  576  on the sear  556  in a disengaged position  573  (See  FIG. 28 ). Only when a bolt  580  is fully engaged with the draw string  520  will the dry fire lockout  572  permit the sear  542  to move to the fire position  569 . 
     Trigger  590  pivots around, pin  592 . Trigger linkage  594  pivotally connects the trigger  590  with trigger pawl  596 . Depressing the trigger  590  in the trigger guard  598  causes the trigger linkage  594  to be displaced in direction  600 , which results in the trigger pawl  596  rotating around pin  602  in direction  604 . The pawl  596  provides external force  597  that moves the sear  556  from the cocked position  555  to fire position  569  shown in  FIG. 28  in order to fire the bow  500 . 
     As best illustrated in  FIGS. 29A and 29B , the traveler  518  includes draw string channels  610  that engage with the draw string  520 , both during cocking and de-cocking of the bow  500 . The cords  516  attach to pulleys  615  on the traveler  518 . Guide  612  is provided on bottom of the traveler  518  that slides in the channel  614  (see  FIG. 26A ) in the center support  512 . De-cocking actuator  616  is pivotally attached to the traveler  518  and rotates around axis  618  between active position  617  and inactive position  619  (see  FIG. 30 ). 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 30 , cocking the bow  500  requires locating the de-cocking actuator  616  in the inactive position  619  so it does not engage with the trigger assembly  504  during the cocking process. When cocking the bow  500  the trigger assembly  504  is in the open configuration  624  illustrated in  FIG. 28 . 
     As the traveler  518  advances toward the trigger assembly  504 , extension  626  on the traveler  518  rotates the dry fire lockout  572  to the disengaged position  571 . The draw string  520  simultaneously contacts projection  628  (see  FIG. 27 ) on the catch  544  to move the catch  544  to the closed position  546 . Spring  560  responds by rotating the sear  556  to the cocked position  555  so the catch  544  is locked in the closed position  546 . In the inactive position  619  the cocking pin  616  does not engage with extension  640  on the sear  556 , even when the traveler  518  is fully engaged with the trigger assembly  504 . 
     As the sear  556  rotates to the cocked position  555 , arm  630  moves the safety  564  past the detent. Spring  632  rotates the safety  564  to the safe position  565  until the shoulder  562  again locks the sear  556  in the cocked position  555 . The safety  564  is preferably automatically activated whenever the bow  500  is placed in the drawn configuration  540 . 
     De-cock the bow  500  is best illustrated in  FIG. 28 . The user manually disengages the safety  564 . The de-cocking actuator  616  is rotated into the active position  617  illustrated in  FIG. 29  A. The traveler  518  is engaged with the channel  614  and the cords  516  are pulled so the extension  626  on the traveler  518  rotates with the dry fire lockout  572  in direction  584 . The de-cocking actuator  616  engages the extension  640  on the sear  556  to rotate the sear  556  in direction  642  to the fire position  569 . Spring  552  moves the catch  544  to the open configuration  624 , releasing the draw string  520  onto the channels  610  on the traveler  518 . The gap between the draw string  520  and the channels  610  on the traveler  518  is preferably very small to avoid a shock load on the cords  516  when the draw string  520  is released. The user can then slowly control movement of the draw string  520  to the release configuration  130  using the cords  516 . 
     Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within this disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges which may independently be included in the smaller ranges is also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in, the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure. 
     Unless defined otherwise all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the various methods and materials are now described. All patents and publications mentioned herein, including those cited in the Background of the application, are hereby incorporated by reference to disclose and described the methods and/or materials in connection with which the publications are cited. 
     The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present disclosure is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates which may need to be independently confirmed. 
     Other embodiments are possible. Although the description above contains much specificity, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure, but as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently preferred embodiments. It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes disclosed. Thus, it is intended that the scope of at least some of the present disclosure should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above. 
     Thus the scope of this disclosure should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Therefore, it will be appreciated that the scope of the present disclosure fully encompasses other embodiments which may become obvious to those skilled in the art, and that the scope of the present disclosure is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” All structural, chemical, and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, it is not necessary for a device or method to address each and every problem sought to be solved by the present disclosure, for it to be encompassed by the present, claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims.