Adjustable Stock Assembly Buffer Catch Guide Rod System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current compact adjustable stock designs for modular small arms compromise on maintenance procedures, operator training, and customization options due to proprietary bolt carrier and buffer assemblies, and are less resistant to collapse under hard use.
Innovation Solution
A stock assembly with a buffer catch and guide rod system that allows for adjustable length without requiring additional training, using a buffer tube with a buffer catch receptacle and guide rods with length adjustment recesses, enabling easy installation on M16/AR-15 pattern firearms and maintaining resistance to collapse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a compact adjustable stock design is implemented, then the overall length when collapsed is reduced, but the receiver extension protrudes from the stock
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver extension is nested within the stock assembly, with the buffer tube receiving the receiver extension and guide rods positioned within the stock to support it. This nesting arrangement allows the receiver extension to be contained within the stock boundaries even when collapsed, eliminating protrusion while maintaining compact length.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rods are positioned laterally offset from the longitudinal axis of the buffer tube, creating a three-dimensional arrangement where the receiver extension is supported from the sides rather than extending beyond the stock. This dimensional change allows compact collapse without receiver extension protrusion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If guide rods with straight cuts are used to support the stock, then length adjustment is enabled, but the stock collapses under hard use
Solution Approach 1:
The guide rods feature an asymmetric design with a protrusion on one side that engages with a corresponding recess in the stock. This asymmetric engagement creates a larger effective contact area and mechanical interlock, preventing stock collapse under hard use while still allowing length adjustment through the protrusion-recess mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rods are pre-positioned and secured within the stock assembly during manufacturing, with the protrusions and recesses already aligned. This preliminary positioning ensures proper engagement and support before the firearm is used, preventing collapse during hard use while maintaining adjustment capability.
3Length of moving object
If proprietary bolt carrier and buffer assemblies are used, then compact design is achieved, but maintenance procedures become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer tube and guide rod assembly is designed to be compatible with standard M16/AR-15 buffer tubes and guide rods, allowing these components to be interchanged with conventional firearms. This universality enables routine maintenance using familiar procedures and parts, even while achieving compact design through the integrated guide rod support system.
Solution Approach 2:
The stock assembly is segmented into separate, independently serviceable components including the buffer tube, guide rods, and stock body. This segmentation allows individual components to be removed, inspected, and replaced without affecting the entire assembly, simplifying maintenance while maintaining compact dimensions.
4Strength
If the buffer catch body blocks the tubular passage, then the buffer is retained, but the buffer cannot move freely
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer catch body is designed to be movable along the longitudinal axis, transitioning between a blocking position that retains the buffer and a retracted position that allows buffer movement. This dynamic design enables the buffer catch to perform both retention and release functions, ensuring the buffer is secured during operation but can be moved for maintenance or adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer catch body acts as an intermediary between the buffer and the tubular passage, selectively blocking or allowing passage based on its position. When blocking the passage, it secures the buffer; when retracted, it permits buffer movement. This intermediary mechanism resolves the contradiction between retention and mobility.
Data Source
AI summary
A stock assembly for a firearm, the stock assembly comprising a buffer catch comprising a movable buffer catch body; a receiver extension comprising a buffer tube; the buffer tube comprising a buffer tube body and a tubular passage within the buffer tube body; the buffer tube body comprising a buffer catch receptacle extending through a wall of the buffer tube body extending along a longitudinal axis of the buffer tube; the buffer catch receptacle configured to receive the buffer catch body therein; the buffer catch body configured to move within the buffer catch receptacle from a home position to a depressed position; and, in the depressed position, the buffer catch body blocks at least a portion of the tubular passage of the buffer tube.