Collapsible Firearm Stock With Self-Registering Locking Hinge
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible firearm stock designs are complex, unreliable, and prone to jamming, with mechanisms that are difficult to actuate and maintain, especially in adverse conditions, and lack modular adaptability and intuitive operation.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible firearm stock assembly featuring a locking hinge with self-registering interference fit that automatically locks in both collapsed and extended configurations, combined with a rib for secure buttstock positioning and sliding functionality, allowing for intuitive actuation and universal integration with various firearm platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex folding mechanisms with multiple components are used to achieve collapsible functionality, then the stock can be collapsed and extended, but the mechanism becomes unreliable and prone to jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The stock is divided into separate segments (forend and buttstock) connected by a hinge, allowing independent movement and collapse without requiring complex multi-component mechanisms. This segmentation enables reliable collapse functionality with fewer parts that could fail or jam.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate components from traditional folding mechanisms. By using a direct hinge connection between stock segments rather than multiple levers, pads, and dogs, the design achieves collapsible functionality with reduced complexity and improved reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mechanisms and hardware components are combined to achieve folding and sliding functionality, then enhanced collapsing functionality is achieved, but the configuration complexity greatly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges folding and sliding functionalities into a single integrated hinge mechanism. The hinge allows both rotational movement (folding) and linear telescoping (sliding) through one unified structure rather than requiring separate mechanisms, thereby reducing configuration complexity while maintaining enhanced collapsing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides folding capability through rotation, sliding capability through telescoping, and alignment adjustment. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated mechanisms for each function, reducing overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional folding mechanisms are used, then the stock can be collapsed, but the actuation becomes difficult especially in adverse environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is pre-configured with built-in alignment features and clearance gaps that facilitate easy actuation. The design includes preliminary positioning elements that guide the collapse motion, eliminating the need for precise manual manipulation required by traditional mechanisms, especially in adverse conditions where dexterity is reduced.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism incorporates dynamic clearance and movement tolerances that allow smooth actuation under varying environmental conditions. The design accommodates thermal expansion, moisture, and debris through intentional gaps and flexible mounting, maintaining ease of operation regardless of environmental factors.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex collapsing mechanisms with numerous parts are used, then folding functionality is achieved, but the operable life span decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the stock into separate components connected by a simple hinge, the invention reduces the total number of parts that can wear out or fail. Fewer components mean fewer potential failure points and reduced maintenance requirements, thereby extending the operable life span while maintaining folding functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism is designed to be self-lubricating and self-aligning through its geometric features, reducing wear on moving parts. The automatic alignment and clearance design minimizes friction and stress concentration, allowing the mechanism to maintain folding functionality over extended periods without external maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible firearm stock system is generally provided and preferably includes a shoulder stock system adapted to receive a buttstock thereon, and a locking linkage having a first linkage portion, a second linkage portion, and a hinge pin operatively uniting the first and said second linkage portions. One of the linkage portions is carried by the shoulder stock assembly so as to define a terminal end therefore, the other of the linkage portions being adapted to be carried by a firearm. Each of the linkage portions are adapted so as to automatically unite in locking engagement upon axial alignment of the shoulder stock assembly with the firearm about the hinge pin.