Patent Publication Number: US-10760885-B2

Title: Multifunctional composite projectiles and methods of manufacturing the same

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims benefit to provisional patent application No. 62/573,632, entitled “Multifunctional Composite Projectiles and Methods of Manufacturing the Same”, filed Oct. 17, 2017, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to composite projectiles and the manufacture thereof for a wide range of purposes and applications through variation of the composite makeup of such composite projectiles. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     A typical projectile, or bullet, as fired from a weapon typically surrounds a projectile having a lead composition. Some of these typical projectiles also have what is commonly referred to as a full metal jacket. A full metal jacket refers to a projectile that uses a soft metallic core, such as lead, surrounded by a harder jacketing material, such as gilding metal or cupronickel. The jacketing material offers a higher level of lubricity for reduced reloading failures as well as reduced friction and wear on parts of the firearm. The full metal jacket design improves firearm feeding particularly surrounding those which use mechanical manipulation for the reloading process. The benefits of improved firearm feeding are particularly important for firearms which are semi-automatic or fully automatic in reloading operation. The metal jacketing also allows for increased muzzle velocity, the speed at which a projectile exits the barrel of a firearm, without leaving significant deposits of metal in the bore. Deposits of metal within the bore can lead to unsafe or unreliable firearm operation. 
     The first metal jacketed bullet was introduced in 1882 and the technology used to manufacture bullets has not substantially changed since WWII. Manufacturers have been limited to assembling metals and alloys in incrementally different ways, without an impactful leap in technology to provide the ability to create and execute new and innovative designs. 
     The main focus point of projectile development surrounds ballistic performance of projectiles to provide longer and flatter trajectory. Other functional developments surrounding projectiles modify the intended use of the projectile by modifying the internal composition of the projectile. For example, certain projectiles use a hardened metal core for armor defeating purposes, while some projectiles use a powdered core material to limit fragments from impacting unintended targets after impacting a primary target. 
     The standard modern firearm loads and fires projectiles from a cartridge. A modern cartridge typically consists of a casing, which holds all the parts together to be fired as one unit. The casing, typically made of brass, holds a propellant such as gunpowder within, and has a projectile press-fit into the open top. A primer, which is used to initiate the charge of propellant, is integrated into the bottom of the casing. When the primer is struck, it initiates the propellant charge which then launches the projectile from the casing and through the firearm barrel. A rim, also at the bottom of the casing, allows for the mechanical extraction of the casing from the firearm. 
     A need now exists for projectiles that are multi-functional, and/or projectiles that can have specifically tailored performance characteristics, and/or projectiles that can be produced with specific physical or material characteristics in a cost-effective, reproducible and time expedient manner. Existing technologies are unable to meet requirements necessary to perform certain tasks effectively without having tradeoffs in performance, reproducibility, safety or cost. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention utilizes advanced composites and additives with manufacturing techniques to produce composite projectiles for use across a broad spectrum of use cases and functionality. Certain embodiments of the present invention substantially utilize melt-flow processing to produce composite projectiles. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that melt-flow processing techniques may include but are not limited to extrusion, roto-molding, injection molding and other processes involving the use of materials in a liquid or semi-liquid state. 
     Certain embodiments comprise a composite projectile using a polyamide polymer as a binding agent in the manufacture of a composite material. It will be appreciated that polyamides, surround long-chain fiber-forming compounds with recurring amide groups. Certain polyamides, such as Nylon and Polybutylene terephthalate, are widely used due to their characteristics such as: resistance to wear or abrasion, low degradation rates at elevated temperatures, low permeability to gasses, and high chemical resistance. Certain embodiments use Nylon compositions such as Nylon 6, Nylon 66, and Nylon 12. Certain embodiments use singular polyamide composition, while others blend two or more polyamide compositions for mechanical or physical properties inherent in such blends. 
     Composite projectiles of the present invention may be machined or post-processed into useable projectiles from specified shapes or near-net-shape objects produced from melt-flow processing. The composite projectiles may also be modified prior to loading into ammunition to provide increased, altered or additional performance characteristics. Such modifications may include but are not limited to: coating, plating, or addition of functional elements such as energetic or explosive particles. 
     In certain embodiments, the energetic or explosive particles of a composite projectile are configured to combust due to high temperature and pressure conditions. The problem with some explosive projectiles which employ combustible materials or heat-activated chemical reaction is associated with what is commonly referred to as “cook-off” Cook-off surrounds the auto-initiation of an explosive projectile. In certain scenarios, this occurs when an explosive projectile is loaded into the breach of a barrel which has been heated through the course of repeated shots fired and remains in the breach for an extended period of time. 
     In certain embodiments energetic particles having a net positive potential energy based on the structural make-up of the element. For instance, the use of elements commonly known as Prince Rupert drops may provide the explosive characteristics of an explosive projectile without the issues associated with explosive projectiles having combustible characteristics relying upon a chemical reaction. Prince Rupert drops are toughened glass beads created by dripping molten glass into cold water, which causes it to solidify into a tadpole-shaped droplet with a long, thin tail. These droplets are characterized internally by very high residual stresses, which give rise to counter-intuitive properties, such as the ability to withstand a blow from a hammer or a bullet on the bulbous end without breaking, while exhibiting explosive disintegration if the tail end is even slightly damaged. 
     Projectile manufacturers and designers have been traditionally limited to assembling metals and metal alloys in ways that are limited to specific tools and dies as well as the material. As such, a particular tool or die could be used for only one particular projectile for a specific application. Examples of such applications include close-quarter-combat operations including lethal and less-than-lethal performance characteristics, armor penetrating requirements, demolition requirements, tagging/tracking, and further applications. 
     It is an aspect of the present invention to manufacture composite projectiles, using a single tool or die, for a variety of applications. By tailoring the functional characteristics of a given projectile through material composition allows the manufacture of composite projectiles for a wide array of applications using the same manufacturing equipment, tooling and processes. 
     In certain use cases, projectiles designed to pierce armor traditionally include a hardened penetrator encased in a metal jacket. After the projectile is fired from a firearm, the penetrator is released from the metal jacket upon impact with the target. In order to separate and release the penetrator from the jacket, a substantial amount of kinetic energy is expended, thus limiting the maximum penetrating depth of the hardened penetrator. 
     Certain embodiments comprise a polymeric jacket for a hardened penetrator, resulting in a composite projectile having a lower mass, allowing for a higher velocity muzzle velocity. Furthermore, the polymeric jacket requires a lower level of energy to separate or disintegrate and release the hardened penetrator from the polymer jacket than as compared to a metal jacketed penetrator. Thus, the hardened penetrator of the present invention retains a high level of kinetic energy after release from the frangible polymeric jacket, resulting in a higher maximum penetrating depth. 
     In certain embodiments, a composite projectile is configured for defeating armor packages, such as ceramic based armor without use of a hardened penetrator. In such embodiments, a composite projectile is configured to deform upon impact to increase the amount of kinetic energy imparted to the armor. The composite projectile deforms but does not fragment to impart the maximum amount of kinetic energy at a localized impact zone. It will be appreciated to those skilled in the art that the defeat of armor does not always require the penetration of all layers of armor. Many armor packages involve a hardened plate with a soft armor backing, or standalone soft armor. It will be appreciated that substantial back-face deformation may result in the defeat of an armor package. Such requirements for the performance and defeat criteria of armor can be found in standards such as those provided by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). (National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center. Selection and Application Guide to Personal Body Armor [online]. NIJ Guide 100-01. Rockville, Md.: National Institute of Justice, 2001 [Retrieved on 2018 Oct. 5]. Retrieved from the internet &lt;URL: https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/189633.pdf&gt;) 
     In certain embodiments the configuration of a hardened penetrator is adjusted in preparation for manufacture to achieve the desired on-target characteristics of the armor penetrator round. In certain embodiments, a flatter base is desired on a hardened penetrator. In certain embodiments, a shorter aspect ratio is preferred. Modification to aspects such as the base profile, aspect ratio and included angle of the leading end of the hardened penetrator provide modifiable elements to affect the on-target characteristics of the hardened penetrator. In certain embodiments the location of the hardened penetrator within the composite projectile can be modified in the manufacturing process to provide preferred on-target characteristics. For instance, a hardened penetrator located toward the trailing end of a composite projectile in certain embodiments is preferred for use-cases in which a soft target will be encountered prior to a hardened target. In contrast, a hardened penetrator located toward the leading end of a composite projectile in certain embodiments is preferred for use-cases in which a hardened target will be encountered prior to a soft target. 
     Existing metal jacketed projectiles when fired result in metal-on-metal contact with the internal surfaces of a barrel which may cause wear on the internal surfaces. This metal-on-metal contact is characterized by a high level of friction resulting in rapid increases of heat within the barrel. It is appreciated by those skilled in the art, that repeated firing of a weapon in rapid succession results in the rapid increase in temperature of a barrel. The overheating of a barrel may lead to degradation of accuracy, permanent damage to the barrel or even catastrophic failure of the firearm. 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention reduce friction between a composite projectile and the interior surface of a barrel by using a polymeric jacket or thin predominantly polymeric layer for a composite projectile, particularly for the surfaces of the composite projectile that directly contact the interior surface of the barrel. A polymeric jacket provides increased lubricity over the prior art and reduces friction and heat generated within the barrel of a firearm. 
     In certain use cases, traditional firearm projectiles are intended for the purposes of breaching through a door or other closure to access. Such use cases involve the use of a breaching round. A breaching round, typically fired from a shotgun, is a projectile intended for firing at close ranges, e.g. 6 inches (15.2 cm) or less, at the hinges of a door or the area between the lock and doorjamb. These rounds are intended to turn into relatively harmless fragments and are intended to prevent injury to surrounding personnel, thereby limiting collateral damage such as unintended injuries and death. Although traditional breaching rounds are effective at providing access to personnel through a locked door, these rounds often cause collateral damage due to unfragmented portions of the projectile after impact. Furthermore, the use of a breaching round typically requires carrying a secondary weapon, such as a shotgun, specifically for the purpose of breaching. Carrying a secondary weapon to serve a singular purpose requires personnel to carry more weight than otherwise necessary. By eliminating the need for a secondary weapon for a singular application, such as door breaching, this allows a user to carry less weight or reallocate the available payload to other necessary supplies. 
     Certain embodiments of a composite projectile for use in applications, such as door breaching and/or neutralization of organic and inorganic targets, comprise a hollow-point tip. A hollow-point tip causes more rapid deformation of a composite projectile when the composite projectile impacts a target. For breaching applications, higher velocities are typically undesired as at a certain threshold, the composite projectile punches through a breaching target such as a lock or hinge rather than breaking it. The more rapid deformation of a composite projectile used for breaching, provides a larger surface area and allows the composite projectile to impart more energy across a larger surface area. The larger impact surface area allows for higher muzzle velocity and higher kinetic energy delivery to the target while breaking the target instead of punching through the target. 
     Certain embodiments of the invention comprise a breaching round version of a composite projectile which fragments into particulate upon impact to mitigate collateral damage, which is capable of being fired from a primary weapon. Thus, the primary weapon is still functional for use in close quarters combat and general-purpose use, limiting unnecessary weight carried by armed personnel. 
     It is a further aspect of certain embodiments for a composite projectile to impart a maximum level of kinetic energy upon the target. By imparting a maximum level of kinetic energy upon the target, any fragments resulting from the impact have low levels of kinetic energy remaining, thus limiting the ability of fragments to cause collateral damage. 
     Certain embodiments comprise a breaching round capable of being fired from a side-arm, such as a pistol, while maximizing the amount of energy imparted upon the target. Thus, limiting the need to carry a single-purpose large secondary weapon such as a shotgun for breaching purposes. 
     Some existing projectiles used for training purposes have an inner lead core and metal jacket. Such projectiles pose a risk of injury to nearby personnel due to ricochet or penetration through an unintended target. Many training facilities make use of moveable targets made of hardened metal. The movability of the target allows the absorption of ballistic energy while the hardened metal of the target provides inertial mass and resilience for the target. However, it is not uncommon for projectiles to strike these targets and ricochet, posing a potential injury risk to nearby personnel. 
     Certain training facilities are commonly referred to as a shoot-house. A shoot-house is a live ammunition small arms shooting range used to train military and law enforcement personnel for close contact engagements in urban combat environments. Shoot-houses are designed to mimic residential, commercial and industrial spaces. Shoot-houses are often used to acquaint personnel in infiltrating structures and the methods used to overwhelm the target(s) in the quickest and most efficient manner. Shoot-houses are modified to resemble a residential environment and with walls and floor fortified to safely absorb rounds fired from close range. Certain embodiments comprise a composite projectile having limited kinetic energy which can be used in shoot-houses. 
     Certain embodiments comprise a frangible composite projectile intended to turn to dust or very small particulate upon impact while providing ballistic characteristics similar to that of a standard projectile with lead core and metal jacket. 
     In use for target practice and training, certain existing projectiles using a lead core present an environmental and health concerns. Outdoor ranges are particularly harmful to the local biology and ground water. Best management practices have been published by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency. Best Management Practices for Lead at Outdoor Shooting Ranges. Region 2. Revised June 2005. [Retrieved on Oct. 13, 2017]. Retrieved from the Internet:&lt;URL: https://www.epa.gov/lead/best-management-practices-lead-outdoor-shooting-ranges-epa-902-b-01-001-revised-june-2005&gt; EPA-902-B-01-001) detailing the harmful effects of lead exposure to the surrounding environment as well as to humans. Furthermore, the Center for Disease Control has identified indoor shooting ranges as being a leading cause of non-occupational exposure to lead poisoning (Center for Disease Control. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, Apr. 25, 2014, Vol. 63, No. 16 [Retrieved on Oct. 13, 2017]. Retrieved from the Internet: &lt;URL: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/wk/mm6316.pdf&gt; MMWR/Apr. 25, 2014/Vol. 63/No. 16). 
     Certain embodiments to comprise a frangible composite projectile configure to disintegrate into small particulate upon impact while providing ballistic characteristics similar to that of a standard projectile with lead core and metal jacket. By disintegrating into small particulate, this mitigates the risk of fragments of the composite projectile from causing collateral damage. 
     The cost of manufacturing projectiles typically involves assembly lines in which molten metal, typically a lead alloy, is cast into shapes and sizes corresponding to certain projectile specifications and configurations. It will be appreciated, to those having skill in the art, that the casting of lead based projectiles involves multiple steps for casting, jacketing and preparing a projectile through manufacture. Certain embodiments comprise a composite projectile which can be manufactured using efficient manufacturing processes rather than those used for the manufacture of lead based projectiles. Certain embodiments present composite projectiles which may be produced with efficient manufacturing processes such as melt-flow manufacturing, such as injection molding. 
     Variations of the present invention may be used in scenarios when armed personnel must operate in a closed structure, such as a house or apartment building. Risk is involved when armed personnel operate in closed structures where adjacency of rooms put uninvolved targets, such as other persons, into positions of consequence. Typical projectiles can penetrate through building materials, such as drywall or wood. If such projectiles do not hit their intended targets, there is risk of the projectile penetrating building materials or other inconsequential objects and striking an unintended target of consequence such as a person. Traditional projectile design and manufacturing techniques are limited when attempting to minimize penetration characteristics of a projectile, and provide limited effectiveness. Certain existing solutions describe specific metal failure points to facilitate a projectile fragmenting upon impact. These metal failure points have inconsistent results due to the unpredictable flight path of fragmented metal and associated kinetic energy with dense materials such as metals. 
     Certain embodiments comprise a composite projectile with frangible characteristics such that the composite projectile fragments into particulate less likely to impart collateral damage after impact with an object. 
     By controlling the material composition of a polymeric aspect of the composite projectile, such as microparticles or nanoparticles of metal and other microparticles or nanoparticles, such as carbon nanoparticles, the performance aspects of a composite projectile may be designed for a particular intended use. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that the use of nanoparticles, particles having a dimension of 100-nanometers or less, in material composition can alter the physical properties of a base material. The effect of nanoparticles upon a base material in manufacturing is largely due to the large surface area of the material, which dominates the contributions made by the small bulk of the material. For example, 1 kg of particles having a volume of 1 mm{circumflex over ( )}3 has the same surface area as 1 mg of particles having a volume of 1 nm{circumflex over ( )}3. As a result, a small amount of nanoparticles, typically less than 10% of a base material results in large physical property changes. It will be further appreciated that certain desired effects may be imparted upon a base material using particles larger than nanoparticles. It may be desired to use microparticles to impart certain desired effects upon a base material. It will be appreciated that micro particles are particles between 0.1-999 microns. Certain embodiments comprise a mixture having a base material, and 5% or less of the mixture comprises nanoparticles or microparticles used to impart desired physical property characteristics upon a composite projectile. In certain embodiments, only 3% or less of the mixture comprises nanoparticles or microparticles. 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention use carbon particles having a maximum dimension of 50 microns, while in other embodiments it is desired to use carbon particles having a maximum dimension of 20 microns. It will be appreciated that carbon particles may comprise forms of spheres, platelets, tubes, fibers or other form as appreciated by those skilled in the art. 
     In certain embodiments, it may be desired to use clay particles in a mixture. In certain embodiments, the clay particles nanoparticles or microparticles, often referred to as nanoclay. Nanoclays are nanoparticles of layered mineral silicates. There are several classes of nanoclays, including montmorillonite, bentonite, kaolinite, hectorite, and halloysite. Organically-modified nanoclays, sometimes referred to as organoclays, are a class of hybrid organic-inorganic nanomaterials with known benefit in polymer nanocomposites, as rheological modifiers, gas absorbents and drug delivery carriers. 
     In certain embodiments, it may be desired to use diamond microparticles or nanoparticles. Diamond particles at such a scale can be used to promote lubricity, polishing and reduce residue build-up within the barrel of a firearm. 
     It will be appreciated that in certain use cases, a composite projectile having an accurate ballistic trajectory for only a limited range is desirable. For example, for use in close quarters combat or for purposes of short range training ammunition (SRTA). Certain embodiments for use as a limited range projectile employ the use of drag-inducing elements intended to cause a more rapid deceleration of a composite projectile in contrast with typical efforts to increase longevity of velocity and trajectory of a composite projectile. Furthermore, the use of drag-inducing features serve to destabilize the composite projectile. A drag-inducing element in certain embodiments causes the deceleration of a composite projectile to lower velocities at which turbulent effects from the drag-inducing elements causes asymmetrical drag. The asymmetrical drag causes the composite projectile to wobble or tumble through the air rather than maintain an orientation in which a longitudinal axis is parallel or tangential to the trajectory of the composite projectile. 
     In certain embodiments a composite projectile comprises a rebated base. It will be appreciated that a rebated base in certain use-cases enhances the molding manufacturing process and enhances ballistic trajectory and accuracy in use. 
     In certain embodiments, a composite projectile comprises an ogive on the external profile of the composite projectile. It will be appreciated that an ogive, such as a tangent or secant ogive can be utilized for the purposes of augmenting the aerodynamics of a composite projectile or increasing interaction of a composite projectile with the internal surfaces of a barrel for alignment and firing purposes. 
     Standard projectiles having a hardened penetrator within the body of the projectile typically comprise an outer jacket of copper or cupronickel and a hardened penetrator potted within the outer jacket with a potting metal such as lead or similar metal having a relatively low melting point. In certain use cases, the heat from the initiation of the charge softens the potting metal and allows the hardened penetrator to shift prior to or during flight. The shifting of a hardened penetrator within a projectile can cause the projectile to become unbalanced and cause unfavorable ballistic trajectory or characteristics. 
     It is an aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention to prevent the shifting of a hardened penetrator within the projectile such as caused by the heat from initiation of a propelling charge. In certain embodiments, a cap is affixed to the trailing end of a composite projectile to shield the base of the composite projectile from the heat of the initiation of the propelling charge. 
     In certain embodiments it is preferred that a composite projectile fragments in a predictable and repeatable manner to control penetration on-target, post-target, or in the event the composite projectile does not strike an intended target. Certain embodiments of a composite projectile comprise a tapered element at the leading portion of a composite projectile. A tapered element, such as a cone, is oriented such that the tapered element tapers from the leading portion of the composite projectile toward the trailing end of the composite projectile. As such, the impact of the trailing end of the composite projectile results in an initiation of expansion of the composite projectile upon impact with any target. The initiation of expansion causes an expanding effect which results in lower velocity and rapid dispersion of kinetic energy. 
     Existing challenges with the manufacture of armor penetrating ammunition include the alignment of the hardened penetrator within a projectile. The alignment of the hardened penetrator with the axial center of mass of the projectile is critical to the balance and ballistic performance of the projectile. It is an aspect of certain embodiments to provide the ability to consistently and repeatably orient a hardened penetrator within a composite projectile to align the axial center of mass of the hardened penetrator with that of the composite projectile. Certain embodiments comprise an alignment element comprising material substantially similar to the material which aligns the hardened penetrator for the molding process through which the alignment element becomes integral to the composite projectile through the molding process of a composite projectile. In certain embodiments the alignment element comprises a metallic structure such as an open-cell metallic structure configured to allow molten polymer to permeate throughout the alignment element. Thus, the alignment element becomes integrated into the composite projectile. 
     It is an aspect of certain embodiments to utilize a penetrator comprising a malleable material such as copper or cupronickel. 
     In the existing prior art, a hardened penetrator is inserted into a metal jacket prior to being potted in with a lower melting point metal such as lead. As such, the form of existing hardened penetrators is limited to an axial profile having a consistent form as external features may result in inconsistent potting of the hardened penetrator and potential for voids or air-gaps within the construction of the projectile, which would leave the projectile unbalanced. 
     It is an aspect of the present invention to allow the use of hardened penetrators having external profiles having external features. 
     These and other advantages will be apparent from the disclosure of the inventions contained herein. The above-described embodiments, objectives, and configurations are neither complete nor exhaustive. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the invention are possible using, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below. Further, this Summary is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. The present invention is set forth in various levels of detail in this Summary, as well as in the attached drawings and the detailed description below, and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended to either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary. Additional aspects of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the detailed description, particularly when taken together with the drawings, and the claims provided herein. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1 —A side view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 2 —A side view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 3 —A side view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 4 —A side view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 5 —A side view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 6 —A side view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 7 —A side view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 8 —A perspective view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 9A —A perspective view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 9B —A side view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 9C —A front view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 10 —A side view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 11A —A side view of a composite projectiles of certain embodiments comprising a cap at a trailing end 
         FIG. 11B —A cross-sectional view of a composite projectiles of certain embodiments comprising a cap at a trailing end 
         FIG. 11C —A side view of a composite projectiles of certain embodiments comprising a cap at a trailing end 
         FIG. 11D —A cross-sectional view of a composite projectiles of certain embodiments comprising a cap at a trailing end 
         FIG. 11E —A side view of a composite projectiles of certain embodiments comprising a cap at a trailing end 
         FIG. 11F —A cross-sectional view of a composite projectiles of certain embodiments comprising a cap at a trailing end 
         FIG. 11G —A side view of a composite projectiles of certain embodiments comprising a cap at a trailing end 
         FIG. 11H —A cross-sectional view of a composite projectiles of certain embodiments comprising a cap at a trailing end 
         FIG. 12A —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 12B —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 12C —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 12D —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 12E —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 13A —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 13B —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 13C —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 13D —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 13E —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 13F —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 13G —A side view of a composite penetrator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 14A —A front view of an alignment element of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 14B —A perspective view of an alignment element of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 15 —A cross-sectional view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 16A —A perspective view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 16B —A cross-sectional view of a composite projectile of certain embodiments 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention comprise a composite projectile for use in applications such as door breaching and/or neutralization of organic and inorganic targets. Such embodiments comprise less than 10% polyamide, 85-95% of dense metal particles, such as tungsten, and up to 5% carbon particles having a maximum dimension of 50 microns. In certain embodiments, the carbon particles have a maximum dimension of 20 microns. It will be appreciated that in the context of the present application, percentages for the mixture of embodiments are provided by mass or weight. In certain embodiments, the dense metal particles have a maximum dimension of 250 microns, while in other embodiments it may be desired to use dense metal particles having a maximum dimension of 150 microns. When these particles are homogeneously mixed and formed through a melt-flow process, the characteristics imparted upon the resulting composite projectile provide rapid dissipation of energy when the composite projectile impacts a target. Such embodiments are designed to provide shrapnel-free and ricochet-free characteristics. It is a further aspect of such embodiments to prevent the destructive energy or particles from the composite projectile from traveling beyond the intended target area. The dense metal particles are typically of a metallic element or compound to provide a specified weight for a given caliber. Examples of a composite projectile  1000  for use in door breaching and/or neutralization of organic and inorganic targets are shown in  FIG. 1 - FIG. 3 . Certain embodiments comprise a flat face  1010  at a leading end  1001  of the composite projectile to form what is commonly referred to as a “wadcutter” or “semi-wadcutter” tip, and a taper  1020  at a trailing end  1002  of the composite projectile to form what is commonly referred to as a “boat-tail.” Certain embodiments comprise radial recesses  1030  at a medial portion of the composite projectile to form what are commonly referred to as “driving bands.” Flat faces  1010  are commonly associated with projectiles having a lower muzzle velocity and are used to provide increased projectile expansion and deformation upon impact. A taper  1020  at a trailing end  1002  of a composite projectile serves to provide additional accuracy by reducing drag and making the composite projectile less susceptible to cross winds. Radial recesses  1030  are used to engage with the rifling of a barrel while limiting the drag on the composite projectile and wear on the barrel. The result is a faster muzzle velocity and less friction and degradation of the interior of the barrel. It may be desired for certain embodiments to comprise a composite projectile with lower levels of kinetic energy delivered to the target than embodiments comprising dense metal particles. Certain embodiments comprise iron or steel metal particles. Such embodiments deliver lower levels of kinetic energy for training purposes such as within a shoot-house. 
     It will be appreciated that the percentages as provided herein surround measurement of composition by weight, however it will be appreciated that such percentages can be applied in volumetric measurement while in keeping with the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
     Certain embodiments comprise a composite projectile for use in shrapnel-free and ricochet-free shooting practice as well as for the neutralization of organic and inorganic targets. Such embodiments comprise less than 10% of a polyamide, 85-95% of inexpensive metal particles such as aluminum or steel or iron, and up to 5% carbon particles having a maximum dimension of 50 microns. In certain embodiments, carbon particles have a maximum dimension of 20 microns. In certain embodiments, the metallic particles comprise a maximum dimension of 150 microns, while other embodiments comprise metallic particles having a maximum dimension of 250 microns. Homogeneous mixing and forming through a melt-flow process results in an inexpensive composite projectile which will not carry destructive outside the target area after striking a desired target. An example of a composite projectile  1000  for use in shrapnel-free and ricochet-free shooting practice as well as for the neutralization of organic and inorganic targets is shown in  FIG. 4 . Certain embodiments comprise a convex conical form  1050  with a flat face  1010 . 
     Certain embodiments comprise a composite projectile which exhibits explosive characteristics upon impact with a target. Such embodiments comprise less than 10% of a polyamide or other polymer capable of being processed in a melt-flow or casting process. The composite projectile further comprises 25-90% of weight inducing particles such as metallic particles, 5-65% of energetic or explosive particles such as aluminum nanoparticles, and up to 5% of carbon particles having a maximum dimension of 50 microns. In certain embodiments, the carbon particles have a maximum dimension of 20 microns. In certain embodiments, the weight inducing particles have a maximum dimension of 250 microns, while other embodiments comprise metallic particles with maximum dimension of 150 microns. The homogeneous mixing and forming through a melt-flow process results in a composite projectile which will react explosively when it impacts a target. An example of a composite projectile  1000 , shown in  FIG. 5 , exhibits explosive characteristics upon impact comprises a flat face  1010 . The flat face  1010 , as shown provides a more substantial area in relation to the composite projectile  1000 , thus resulting in a higher than normal pressure event when the composite projectile  1000  strikes a given target. The higher than normal pressure event provides necessary pressure levels to initiate the explosive reaction of the composite projectile  1000 . 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention comprise a composite projectile having uniquely identifiable characteristics to allow the composite projectile to be identified prior to and after the composite projectile has been fired from a weapon. Such embodiments comprise less than 10% of a polyamide or other polymer capable of being processed in a melt-flow or casting process and 85-95% of metal particles such as copper. In certain embodiments, the metal particles comprise a maximum dimension of 250 microns while other embodiments comprise a maximum dimension of 150 microns. The composite projectile further comprises up to 5% carbon particles having a maximum dimension of 50 microns or less, and less than 3% of unique identifying elements or molecules. In certain embodiments, the carbon particles have a maximum dimension of 20 microns. Homogeneous mixing and forming through a melt-flow process results in a composite projectile which is uniquely identifiable prior to and after use. It will be appreciated that synthetic molecules specifically made for the identification of composite projectiles may be used in the manufacture of such embodiments for increased identifiability. An example of a composite projectile  1000 , shown in  FIG. 6 , having uniquely identifiable characteristics may be configured to be fired from any standard firearm. Certain embodiments, as shown, comprise a standard bulleted-nose  1040 . 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention comprise a composite projectile having less than 10% polyamide, 85-95% of metal particles, such as copper, and up to 5% carbon particles. In certain embodiments, the metal particles have a maximum dimension of 250 microns, while other embodiments comprise metal particles having a maximum dimension of 150 microns. In certain embodiments, the maximum dimension of the carbon particles comprises a maximum dimension of 20 microns, while other embodiments comprise a maximum dimension of 50 microns. It will be appreciated that composite projectiles may be designed to have a certain mass or density which may be tailored to a specific purpose through the variation of percentages. It will be further appreciated that composite projectiles of varying densities or masses may be produced using the same mold while varying the material composition of the composite projectile material mixture. An example of such an embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 7 , comprises a bulleted nose shape  1050  and a flat face  1010 . It will be appreciated that such embodiments of varying densities can be configured to be fired from any standard firearm while remaining in spirit and scope of the present invention. 
     It will be appreciated that composite projectiles may undergo post-processing or secondary manufacturing processes to modify the composite projectile. It may be desired in certain embodiments to add coatings, apertures, and/or plugs to a composite projectile for purposes of modifying ballistic trajectory, reloading action or on-target characteristics. 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention surround ammunition casing for the firing of composite projectiles. Certain embodiments comprise a polymer based casing. Certain embodiments comprise a steel casing. Certain embodiments comprise a casing having a combination of metal and polymer construction. Certain embodiments comprise a single-piece casing while others comprise multiple pieces assembled into a contiguous case. Such embodiments as disclosed are used to provide weight-reduction, increased reloadability, cost reductions, and or the ability to withstand higher pressures when a composite projectile is fired. 
     It will be appreciated that embodiments such as composite projectiles and polymer based casings result in composite projectiles and casings having a higher level of lubricity than found in the prior art. The increased lubricity of such embodiments allows for the mechanically driven reloading of a firearm with an unfired cartridge with less friction or resistance. Thus, resulting in increased reloadability with increased reliability, decreased frequency of mechanical failure events, and reduced wear on the reloading mechanisms of the firearm. An example of a composite projectile having increased lubricity is shown in  FIG. 8 , wherein a composite projectile  1000  further comprises an outer surface  1060  having a polymeric coating. 
     Certain embodiments comprise a composite projectile having a colorant added and homogeneously incorporated prior to the production of the composite projectile. This results in a composite projectile having a particular color or tint which is identifiable by the user of the composite projectile. It may be desired to color-code composite projectiles according to their intended purpose, allowing a user to identify composite projectiles for particular purposes by color, without a need for a secondary or post-processing step of coating or coloring. 
     Certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 9A - FIG. 9C , comprise a composite projectile having a drag inducing element  1100 . In certain embodiments, a drag-inducing element  1100  comprises a side-cut into the external surface  1110  of a composite projectile. In certain embodiments a drag-inducing element  1100  further comprises a plurality of fillets or chamfers into the external surface  1110  of a composite projectile. Although it is typically preferred that such drag inducing elements  1100  are symmetrically configured around the external surface  1110  of the composite projectile, it will be appreciated that in certain use-cases drag-inducing elements  1100  are asymmetrically spaced around the external surface  1110  of the composite projectile are in keeping with the spirit and scope of the present invention. It will be further appreciated that the number of drag-inducing elements  1100  is not limited to a total of six as shown in  FIG. 9A - FIG. 9C . 
     Certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 10 , comprise a composite projectile having what is commonly referred to as a “rebated” base. A rebated base  1130  of a composite projectile, is commonly associated with a tapered base  1020  such as a boat-tail. A boat-tail surrounds the tapered base  1020  at the trailing end  1002  of a composite projectile. In certain embodiments a rebated base  1130  provides a 90-degree shoulder in conjunction with the boat-tail at the trailing end  1002  of the composite projectile. 
     Certain embodiments, as seen in  FIG. 11A - FIG. 11H , comprise a cap  1140  configured to shield the trailing end  1002  of a composite projectile from the heat and pressure associated with a propelling charge. A cap  1140  of certain embodiments comprises a copper or cupronickel material, however it will be appreciated that use other materials known to those in the art are in keeping with the spirit and scope of the present invention. In certain embodiments, as seen in  FIG. 11A - FIG. 11B , a cap  1140  comprises a form which covers the trailing end  1002  of the composite projectile. In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 11C - FIG. 11D , a cap  1140  comprises a form which covers the trailing end  1002  of a composite projectile, and further comprises an alignment element  1150 . The alignment element  1150  of certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 11C - FIG. 11D  is characterized by a central recess which is configured to receive the trailing end  1320  of a hardened penetrator. An alignment element in such embodiments serves to align a hardened penetrator  1145  with the cap  1140  and thereby the composite projectile  1000  in preparation for the molding process. In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 11E - FIG. 11F , comprises a cap  1140  which covers the trailing end  1002  of the composite projectile  1000 , and further comprises fingers  1160  which extend toward the leading end  1001  of the composite projectile. The fingers  1160  of such embodiments serve to provide increased attachment of the cap  1160  to the composite projectile as well as to engage with the rifling of the barrel of a firearm. In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 11G - FIG. 11H , it may be desired for the cap  1140  to to further comprise a collar  1170  which extends toward the leading end  1001  of a composite projectile. The collar  1170  of such embodiments serves to provide increased attachment of the cap  1140  to the composite projectile  1145  as well as to engage with the rifling of the barrel of a firearm. It will be appreciated that a cap as disclosed herein surrounds the shielding of the leading end of a composite projectile. However, it will be further appreciated that a cap of certain embodiments is disposed at the leading end of a composite projectile and configured to shield the leading end of the composite projectile while in keeping with the spirit and the scope of the present invention. 
     It is an aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention to prevent the shifting of a hardened penetrator within projectile such as caused by the heat from initiation of a propelling charge. In certain embodiments, a cap is affixed to the trailing end  1002  of a composite projectile to shield the base of the composite projectile from the heat of the initiation of the propelling charge. 
     In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 12A - FIG. 12E , a hardened penetrator  1145  of the present invention can comprise a number of profiles. In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 12A , a hardened penetrator comprises a 60-degree included angle  1300  and a consistent profile. In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 12B , a hardened penetrator  1145  comprises a profile which tapers down from the leading end  1310  toward the trailing end  1320  of the hardened penetrator. In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 12C , a hardened penetrator  1145  comprises a 30-degree included angle  1300  which serves to provide more piercing ability for the hardened penetrator  1145 . As seen in  FIG. 12D , certain embodiments comprise a hardened penetrator having a frustum  1330  at the leading end  1001 . The flat portion of the frustum provides more blunt force impact by the hardened penetrator against a hard target for purposes of fracturing the target versus piercing the target. In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 12E , a hardened penetrator  1145  comprises a conical tip  1340  with a rebated body  1350 , thus once the leading end  1001  of the hardened penetrator traverses through the target, the rebated body  1350  of the hardened penetrator  1145  follows without impedance. 
     As seen in  FIG. 13A - FIG. 13G , certain embodiments comprise hardened penetrators  1145  having external features. As seen in  FIG. 13A , a hardened penetrator  1145  of certain embodiments comprises an annular recess  1400  substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis  1410  of the hardened penetrator. Certain embodiments comprise a plurality of annular recesses  1400 . In certain use cases, such annular recesses  1400  serve to reduce friction when passing through soft armor and allowing a composite projectile to traverse further within soft armor due to increased surface area for binding with the polymer of a composite projectile. As seen in  FIG. 13B , certain embodiments comprise longitudinal channels  1420  along the length of a hardened penetrator  1145  for reduced surface area for interaction with a target as well as increased surface area for binding with a polymer of a composite projectile. In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 13C - FIG. 13D , a hardened penetrator  1145  comprises longitudinal fins  1430 . In certain embodiments, as seen in  FIG. 13E , a hardened penetrator  1145  comprises a boat-tail  1440  at the trailing end  1402  of the hardened penetrator. In certain embodiments, as seen in  FIG. 13F - FIG. 13G , a hardened penetrator  1145  comprises a helical element  1450 , such as a helical groove  1451  or helical protuberance  1452 , on the external surface  1460  of the hardened penetrator. In certain use cases, such helical elements  1450  induce axial spinning and allow the hardened penetrator  1145  to pass more easily through a soft armor such as those using aramid fiber based textiles. 
     In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 14A - FIG. 14B , an alignment element  1500  provides alignment for a hardened penetrator  1145  within a composite projectile. In certain embodiments the alignment element  1500  comprises a recess  1510  configured to receive the hardened penetrator  1145 , and offset elements  1520  configured to maintain a consistent radial offset  1530  from external aspects of a resulting projectile. In certain embodiments, the alignment element  1500  comprises a material makeup substantially consistent with the polymeric make-up of the composite projectile. As such, when the composite projectile is molded, the alignment element becomes integrated with the composite projectile. In certain embodiments, the alignment element  1500  comprises a metallic composition. In certain embodiments the alignment element  1500  comprises an open-celled matrix or foam structure—such as a polymer, metal, or ceramic—configured to allow the permeation of a molten polymer into and around the structure of the alignment element  1500 . 
     In certain embodiments, shown in  FIG. 15 , a composite projectile  1000  is configured for fragmentation such that an expansion inducing element  1600  at the leading end  1001  of the composite projectile creates outward fragmentation upon impact with a target. In certain embodiments, the expansion inducing element  1600  comprises a conical form having a base  1610  at the leading end  1001  of the composite projectile and tapers inward toward the trailing end  1002  of the composite projectile. It will be appreciated that certain embodiments comprise a double-conical form (not shown) wherein a first conical element has a base affixed to a base of a second conical element. Thus, resulting in a tip of the first conical element at the leading end  1001  of the composite projectile, and the tip of the second conical element offset toward the trailing end  1002  of the composite projectile. 
     In certain embodiments, shown in  FIG. 16 , an expansion inducing element  1650  comprises a segmented element characterized by solid aspects  1660  and perforations  1670 . Such an expansion inducing element serves to control the fragmentation patterning and expansion of the composite projectile  1000  upon impact. 
     For purposes of further disclosure, the following references generally related to projectiles and manufacturing methods are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties: 
     U.S. Pat. No. 9,383,178 to Powers, issued on Jul. 5, 2016, which discloses a Hollow point bullet and method of manufacturing same; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 9,188,416 to Hash et al., issued on Jul. 11, 2015, which discloses lead-free, corrosion-resistant projectiles and methods of manufacture; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 9,057,591 to Hash et al., issued on Jun. 16, 2015, which discloses lead-free, corrosion-resistant projectiles and methods of manufacture; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 8,833,262 to Leasure, issued on Sep. 16, 2014, which discloses a lead free reduced ricochet limited penetration projectile; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 7,992,500 to Williams, issued on Aug. 9, 2011, which discloses a method and apparatus for self-destruct frangible projectiles; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,616,642 to West et al., issued on Apr. 1, 1997, which discloses a lead-free frangible ammunition; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,237,930 to Belanger et al., issued on Aug. 24, 1993, which discloses a frangible practice ammunition; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 9,388,090 to Joshi et al., issued on Jul. 12, 2016, which discloses a fast ignition and sustained combustion of ionic liquids; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 9,372,054 to Padgett, issued on Jun. 21, 2016, which discloses a narrowing high strength polymer-based cartridge casing for blank and subsonic ammunition; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 9,227,353 to Williams, issued on Jan. 5, 2016, which discloses a molding apparatus and method for operating same; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 9,194,680 to Padgett et al., issued on Nov. 24, 2015, which discloses polymer-based machine gun belt links and cartridge casings and manufacturing method; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 9,046,333 to Masinelli, issued on Jun. 2, 2015, which discloses a bullet; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 8,997,653 to Calvert, issued on Apr. 7, 2015, which discloses a stroke inducing bullet; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 8,893,621 to Escobar, issued on Nov. 25, 2014, which discloses a projectile; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 8,881,654 to Seecamp, issued on Nov. 11, 2014, which discloses bullets with lateral damage stopping power; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 8,393,273 to Weeks, issued on Mar. 12, 2013, which discloses bullets, including lead-free bullets, and associated methods; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 8,365,672 to Martinez, issued on Feb. 5, 2013, which discloses a frangible bullet and its manufacturing method; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 8,312,815 to Joys et al., issued on Nov. 20, 2012, which discloses lead free frangible bullets; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 8,225,718 to Joys et al., issued on Jul. 24, 2012, which discloses lead free frangible bullets; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 8,308,986 to Stuart, issued on Nov. 13, 2012, which discloses a bismuth compounds composite; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,035,183 to Luxton, issued on Jul. 30, 1991, which discloses a frangible nonlethal projectile; 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,149,705 to Richard A. Lowden et al, issued on Nov. 21, 2000, which discloses environmentally safe projectiles made of two different metals, one that is significantly more malleable and acts as a binder to the higher density material and forms the shape of the bullet under compression; and 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/495,367, to Folaron et al., filed on Apr. 24, 2017, which discloses an injection molding apparatus and method of use. 
     While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention. Further, the inventions described herein are capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purposes of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “adding” and variations thereof herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof, as well as, additional items.