Breech Block Locking Geometry Without Return Springs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing breech blocks in automatic firearms lack reliable and cost-effective mechanisms for transitioning the locking elements between locking and release positions without the need for additional springs or restoring elements.
Innovation Solution
A breech block design featuring diametrically opposed locking elements pivotable via a common transverse axis, guided by a control element with support surfaces, allowing reliable movement between locking and release positions using a sleeve-like control element connected to the bolt handle, eliminating the need for additional springs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If springs or other restoring elements are used to move locking elements between positions, then reliable movement between locking and release positions is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes springs and other restoring elements from the locking mechanism. The control element is designed to directly move the locking elements between locking and release positions through its geometric shape and interaction surfaces, eliminating the need for separate restoring components and thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The control element itself performs the function of both actuating and restoring the locking elements. Through its specially designed geometry with inclined surfaces and interaction zones, the control element automatically guides the locking elements into the correct position and maintains them there without requiring external springs or additional restoring mechanisms
2Reliability
If springs or other restoring elements are used to move locking elements, then functional safety is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By extracting springs and restoring elements from the design, the patent reduces the bill of materials and assembly requirements. The control element's geometric features are integrated directly into the existing components, eliminating the need to manufacture and assemble separate restoring elements, thereby reducing manufacturing cost while preserving functional safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the restoring function with the control element itself. The control element incorporates geometric features (inclined surfaces, interaction zones) that perform both the actuation and restoring functions in a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate restoring elements and reducing overall manufacturing cost
3Reliability
If locking elements are pivotably mounted with multiple journals and support surfaces, then secure guidance and reliable locking are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the actuating mechanism, provides geometric guidance through its shaped surfaces, defines the locking position through interaction zones, and performs the restoring function. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate guidance components and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining secure locking
Data Source
AI summary
A breech block with a bolt carrier, on which a bolt head and a locking device are arranged with two diametrically opposed locking elements pivotable from a release position to a locking position via a control element, for holding the bolt head in a locking position. The locking elements are mounted pivotably around a common transverse axis via journals and the control element contains front and rear support areas that abut against the locking elements for controlled forced movement of the locking elements into both the locking position and the release position.