摘要 |
Rifle ( 1 ) comprises barrel ( 2 ) and loading means ( 15 ) for introducing a projectile from magazine ( 7 ) into breech ( 4 ). The projectile is propelled by a compressed gas propellant initially stored as a liquid in canister ( 10 ). The liquid is heated to a super critical state in chamber ( 8 ) by heating element ( 12 ) to induce a phase change such that the liquid becomes a highly dense gas. The phase change from liquid to gas provides the energy required to expel the projectile at high velocity from rifle ( 1 ), regardless of the ambient temperature. The propellant is preferably CO<SUB>2 </SUB>which is heated to 31.06° C. Rifle ( 1 ) produces minimal noise and no heat signature, making it suitable for military and stealth purposes. A pistol and launchers for grenades or mortar bombs are also disclosed. Another version can launch low earth orbit satellites or payloads. |