Quick-Change Barrel Locking Cam for AR-Style Receivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearms systems for attaching and detaching barrels are not efficient for quick and easy exchange, particularly for AR-15 style firearms, limiting versatility in caliber changes and tactical applications.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism involving a spring cavity, hand guard, and cam system with a non-circular cross-section pin is used to secure the barrel to the upper receiver, allowing for quick and secure attachment and detachment of various barrels through a cam-activated locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional barrel attachment mechanisms are used, then barrel security is maintained, but barrel exchange time is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism transforms a simple rotational motion into a dynamic locking action that rapidly secures the barrel. As the cam rotates, its asymmetric profile forces the spring-loaded latch to engage with the barrel rim, creating a quick and secure attachment without requiring multiple steps or excessive time
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded latch mechanism automatically engages with the barrel rim when the cam is rotated into position. The spring provides continuous pressure to maintain the locked state, and the entire locking action occurs passively once the cam is positioned, eliminating the need for additional manual securing operations
2Ease of operation
If a simple attachment mechanism is used, then ease of operation is improved, but barrel security and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cam's asymmetric curved profile is specifically designed to convert rotational motion into linear forcing motion. As the cam rotates, its curved surface progressively pushes the latch against the barrel rim, ensuring positive engagement and reliable locking through geometric constraint rather than relying on friction or simple mechanical interference
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism is divided into distinct functional components: the cam for motion transformation, the spring-loaded latch for securing, and the barrel rim with engagement features. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to provide both ease of operation and reliable barrel security
3Reliability
If multiple components are added to improve barrel security, then device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam and spring-loaded latch are integrated into a single compact assembly that operates as one unified mechanism. The cam's rotation simultaneously drives the latch engagement and maintains continuous pressure through the spring, combining multiple securing functions into a single rotational motion rather than requiring separate locking steps
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism serves multiple functions: it transforms rotational motion into linear forcing motion, actuates the latch engagement, maintains continuous securing pressure through the spring, and provides a positive locked state through geometric constraint. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components while maintaining high reliability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and reliable exchange of barrels, accommodating different calibers and lengths, enhancing tactical flexibility and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a spring configured to fit into the spring cavity to abut the hand guard to secure the barrel to the upper receiver
Implementation Method 2
a cam configured to abut the spring and secure the barrel within the receiver when the cam is turned
Implementation Method 3
a pin having a non-circular cross section which is rotated to abut tines of the spring which straddle the barrel and secure the barrel to the upper receiver
Data Source
AI summary
Firearms, components, systems and methods to quickly connect or remove a barrel to or from an upper receiver, the receiver including an elongated body defining a central bore and configured to receive a barrel of a firearm, a cam positioned within the receiver and oriented transverse the central axis where turning the cam locks a barrel into the receiver, and in aspects includes a spring which straddles the barrel and applies a force to a hand guard which in turn applies force to a rim of the barrel to lock the barrel within the upper receiver.