Barrel Alignment Tab and Locking Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Present firearm feed ramps do not ensure reliable alignment and secure positioning of the barrel relative to the receiver, affecting the interchangeability and functionality of different barrels.
Innovation Solution
A barrel alignment and locking assembly comprising a barrel extension with a slot and an alignment tab with a feed ramp, which couples to the receiver to constrain the barrel extension's position and orientation, allowing the barrel to be aligned and secured using a locking lug.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional feed ramp is used in the receiver, then cartridge loading is assisted, but reliable alignment of the barrel to the receiver is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tab is separated from the receiver body as a distinct component with dedicated alignment features (slot and datum surface). This segmentation allows the alignment function to be isolated and optimized independently from the receiver's primary functions, enabling reliable barrel alignment while maintaining ease of barrel removal and installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment tab acts as an intermediary component between the receiver and the barrel. It provides a precise datum surface and slot that mediates the alignment relationship, ensuring accurate positioning without requiring the barrel to be permanently fixed to the receiver, thus enabling both reliable alignment and easy interchangeability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the barrel is securely locked to the receiver, then positioning stability is improved, but the complexity of the locking mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tab combines multiple functions into a single component: it provides the datum surface for positioning, the slot for alignment, and the feed ramp for cartridge loading. This merging reduces the need for separate alignment features and locking mechanisms, achieving stable barrel positioning without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment tab is pre-positioned on the receiver with its datum surface and slot already in place before barrel installation. This preliminary positioning action ensures that when the barrel is installed, it automatically achieves correct alignment and stable positioning without requiring complex adjustment or locking procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An alignment and locking assembly includes an alignment tab having an engagement surface and a feed ramp extending proximally from the engagement surface. The assembly also includes a barrel extension having a distal end, and a proximal end. The proximal end defines a slot configured to matingly receive the engagement surface.