Toolless Firearm Backplate via Segmented Locks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for removing a pistol's slide backplate are cumbersome and require tools, leading to potential malfunctions due to dirt and grime entry and accidental removal of extractor components, with existing toolless solutions still having deficiencies such as disassembly openings that allow foreign particles to enter and extractor components to dislodge.
Innovation Solution
A toolless slide backplate system featuring an extractor lock and striker assembly lock that can be installed and removed without tools, using lips and grooves for secure placement and detent chamfers for retention, eliminating the need for disassembly openings and preventing extractor component loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a disassembly opening is provided in the backplate to enable toolless removal, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to dirt and grime entry
Solution Approach 1:
The backplate is divided into two separate components: an extractor lock and a striker assembly lock. This segmentation allows each component to be independently removed without requiring a disassembly opening in the main backplate structure, thereby maintaining the sealed environment while enabling toolless removal of individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The extractor lock and striker assembly lock are extracted as separate removable components from the backplate. This allows the main backplate to remain intact and sealed, while the individual locks can be removed toollessly for maintenance or replacement without compromising the sealed environment.
2Ease of operation
If toolless removal is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The extractor lock and striker assembly lock are designed to be installed and removed by the user without requiring external tools. The lips and grooves provide self-aligning features that guide the components into place, and the detent chamfers automatically engage to secure the locks, eliminating the need for tool-assisted installation or removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation and removal functions are merged into a single integrated action for each lock component. The lips and grooves combination provides both positioning and retention functions in one feature set, reducing the number of separate mechanisms needed while maintaining toolless operation.
3Ease of operation
If the backplate is made fully removable, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to accidental extractor component removal
Solution Approach 1:
The backplate is segmented into the extractor lock and striker assembly lock, which are removed separately rather than as a single unit. This segmentation ensures that when one component is removed for maintenance, the other remains in place to prevent accidental extractor component removal and maintain firearm safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static fully-removable backplate to a dynamic system where individual locks can be selectively removed. The detent chamfers provide a mechanical interlock that prevents unintended removal while allowing deliberate removal when needed, creating a controlled dynamic retention system.
Data Source
AI summary
A toolless slide backplate for a firearm that comprises an extractor lock and a striker assembly lock. The extractor lock is dimensioned to cover and contact an extractor plunger when installed, and is held in place via an interplay with the extractor plunger. The striker assembly lock is dimensioned to cover the striker components when installed. The striker assembly lock covers the trigger connector of the frame of the firearm such that a disassembly opening is not required.