Digital Hybrid Firearm Trigger Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current firearms with multiple firing modes are mechanically complex, prone to wear, and unreliable, especially in electronic systems, which limits the control of firing rates and modes, and are not suitable for military applications due to reliability concerns in wet conditions.
Innovation Solution
A firearm with a trigger-actuated electronic mode that operates in parallel with a mechanical mode, using a solenoid and microprocessor-controlled circuit to select and adjust firing modes, including burst and automatic modes, with a secondary sear system for safe and efficient operation, and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical burst mechanisms are added to provide controlled firing modes, then firing mode control is improved, but mechanical complexity and part wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical burst control mechanisms with an electronic control system that uses a microprocessor to manage firing modes. The electronic system receives signals from a trigger assembly and controls the firing sequence through electronic circuitry rather than mechanical linkages, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining firing mode control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic control system serves multiple functions: it controls burst firing sequences, regulates automatic firing rates, and manages overall weapon operation. This multi-functional electronic controller replaces what would otherwise require separate mechanical mechanisms for each function, reducing overall device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If fully automatic mode is added to provide more firing choices, then firing mode versatility is improved, but mechanical complexity and reliability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an electronic control system with a microprocessor to manage fully automatic and other firing modes, replacing complex mechanical timing and control mechanisms. The electronic system can programmatically control firing rates and sequences without requiring additional mechanical parts for each mode
3Device complexity
If electronic systems are used to control firing modes, then mechanical complexity is reduced, but reliability in wet conditions worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs sealed enclosures and protective coatings as intermediary barriers between the electronic components and the wet environment. These protective measures allow the electronic system to function reliably in humid or wet conditions while maintaining the benefits of reduced mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Even with protective measures, the electronic system is presented as a trade-off: it reduces mechanical complexity significantly, and with proper sealing and protection, achieves acceptable reliability in wet conditions, making it suitable for military applications
4Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical burst mechanisms are used, then burst firing is enabled, but the mechanisms are prone to rapid wear and failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical burst control mechanisms with an electronic control system that uses a microprocessor to manage firing sequences. The electronic system receives signals from the trigger assembly and controls the firing sequence through electronic circuitry, eliminating the wear-prone mechanical linkages while maintaining burst firing capability
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
The solution provides a reliable, user-adjustable, and safe firearm that maintains functionality even with electronic system failures, improving shooting precision and reducing mechanical complexity, allowing for controlled firing rates and modes without compromising reliability in various conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A digital trigger assembly for a firearm includes a trigger body, a sear assembly, a solenoid, and a control circuit
Implementation Method 2
A digital trigger assembly for a firearm includes a trigger body, a sear assembly, a solenoid, and a control circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A firearm for mechanically and electronically firing a weapon including a trigger rotatably mounted to a sear and having an actuator attached thereto. A secondary sear is rotatably mounted to the sear, and a switch is mounted to the lower receiver behind the trigger and adapted to be contacted by the actuator when the trigger is pulled. An electronic circuit is electrically connected to the switch such that when the switch is contacted the circuit is energized to operate a prime mover that operates the firearm. The sear assembly may also comprise a main sear and an auxiliary sear controlled by a selector switch having cam surfaces and adapted to be rotated to a plurality of positions, wherein in a first position comprises a safety mode, a second position comprises a mechanical mode of fire and a third position comprises an electronic mode of fire.