Bolt Handle Assembly Locking Mechanism for Firearm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bolt handle assemblies for bolt action rifles face high fabrication costs due to complex machining requirements and are prone to loosening or separation, especially when formed as separate parts with threaded connections.
Innovation Solution
A bolt handle assembly with a locking member that is T-shaped and rotatable, allowing secure attachment to the bolt without mechanical fasteners, threading, welding, or integral machining, using a mounting tang and locking aperture for secure engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the bolt handle is formed as an integral part of the unitary bolt structure, then the structural strength and reliability are improved, but the fabrication and machining costs increase due to the complex configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the bolt assembly into separate components: the bolt body and the handle are formed as distinct parts that are mechanically attached rather than as a single integral structure. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simpler processes, reducing overall fabrication costs while maintaining structural integrity through the attachment mechanism.
2Ease of manufacture
If the bolt handle is attached as a separate part via threaded connection, then the fabrication costs are reduced, but the handle may loosen during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a locking mechanism that is pre-configured within the handle structure, featuring protrusions that engage with corresponding recesses in the bolt body. This preliminary design ensures that when the handle is attached, it automatically locks into position, preventing loosening during use without requiring additional fastening operations.
3Ease of operation
If threads are machined on both the handle and bolt socket for mechanical attachment, then the ease of assembly is improved, but the fabrication costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the threading requirement from the attachment mechanism, replacing it with a simple insertion through a slot followed by engagement of the locking protrusions. This eliminates the need to machine threads on both components, reducing fabrication costs while maintaining ease of assembly through the straightforward insert-and-lock process.
Data Source
AI summary
A bolt handle assembly for a firearm is disclosed. In one embodiment, the bolt handle assembly includes a bolt having an internal channel and a laterally extending slot, a bolt handle including a mounting tang insertable through the slot and having a locking aperture positioned in the internal channel, a firing pin striker slidably disposed in the internal channel, and a locking member mounted on the firing pin striker. The locking member is insertable through the locking aperture of the bolt handle and is configured for engaging the mounting tang of the bolt to removably secure the bolt handle to the bolt. The locking member is rotatable between locked and unlocked positions to secure and release the bolt handle from the bolt. A method for mounting the bolt handle to the bolt is also disclosed. In one embodiment; the firearm is a bolt-action rifle.