Electronic Lock for Firearm Accessories Using Solenoid Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearm accessory mounting systems lack a remote control mechanism for engaging or disengaging accessories, are vulnerable to mechanical fatigue, and cannot prevent unauthorized access or record usage data effectively.
Innovation Solution
An electronic lock system that allows remote engagement or disengagement, is rugged and waterproof, and includes features like GPS tracking, event recording, and biometric authentication, using a solenoid locking mechanism and mobile app control, integrated with a firearm accessory assembly that includes cameras, lasers, and sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical locks with screws and spring-loaded pins are used to attach firearm accessories, then the accessory can be mounted to the firearm, but the system is vulnerable to mechanical fatigue and cannot be remotely engaged or disengaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical locking system (screws and spring-loaded pins) with an electronic solenoid-based locking mechanism. The solenoid actuator can be remotely controlled via wireless communication to engage or disengage the locking pins, eliminating mechanical fatigue from manual operation while enabling remote engagement capability through electronic control.
2Reliability
If mechanical locking mechanisms are used, then the accessory can be attached to the firearm, but unauthorized users can remove or disable the accessory
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple mechanical locks with an electronic locking system that includes solenoid actuators, control circuits, and authentication capabilities. This electronic system provides enhanced security through remote control and authentication mechanisms while managing complexity through integrated circuit design and wireless communication protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system includes automatic engagement and disengagement capabilities through the solenoid actuators, which can be controlled remotely without requiring manual intervention. The system also includes automatic authentication verification and security monitoring features that operate autonomously to prevent unauthorized access.
3Ease of operation
If a remote control system is added to the lock, then remote engagement is possible, but the cost and complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single system: the solenoid actuators serve both as locking mechanisms and as remotely controllable engagement devices. The electronic control system combines authentication, remote control, and monitoring functions in one integrated unit, reducing overall system complexity despite adding remote capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses wireless communication modules as intermediaries between the user and the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for physical contact or complex wiring. The electronic control circuit acts as an intermediary that processes authentication signals and controls the solenoid actuators, simplifying the overall system architecture.
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
Provides secure, reliable, and remote control over firearm accessories, records usage data, and prevents unauthorized access, while being durable and cost-effective for various environments and firearm types.
Implementation Method 1
electronic lock assembly 40 includes an electronic lock 42 that is engaged between the grooves of the firearm railing to lock the firearm accessory assembly 20 to the firearm
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic lock controlled by a solenoid for mounting accessories to a firearm that can be selectively and remotely actuated by an authorized user so that the accessory cannot be removed without the consent of the user. Further features of the present invention include a firearm accessory being locked electronically to a firearm that includes cameras, round frequency detection, lasers, lights, speakers, microphones sensors, GPS, Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi, cellular, and/or microphones and the like.