Firearm Barrel Coupling via Ball Bearing Case
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barrel coupling mechanisms for firearms, such as M-16/AR-15 style rifles, require specialized tools and are difficult to quickly assemble or disassemble, leading to security and maintenance issues, including exposure to dust and debris, and are not easily integrated with the firearm's design.
Innovation Solution
A tool-free barrel coupling mechanism using a ball bearing case with a spring sleeve and biasing member, allowing for secure and rapid attachment and detachment of the barrel without tools, while providing a sealed environment and integration with the firearm's design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threaded engagement is used to couple the barrel to the upper receiver, then secure attachment is achieved, but tool-free assembly and disassembly cannot be accomplished
Solution Approach 1:
A coupling mechanism comprising a coupling member and a barrel member with complementary threaded portions is introduced as an intermediary between the barrel and upper receiver. The coupling member features a first threaded portion that engages with the upper receiver and a second threaded portion that engages with the barrel, enabling secure attachment while allowing tool-free assembly through the self-aligning nature of the threaded engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate components: a coupling member and a barrel member with distinct threaded portions. This segmentation allows the coupling mechanism to be independently assembled and disassembled without requiring tools, while each segment maintains its threading functionality for secure engagement
2Ease of operation
If tool-free coupling mechanisms are used to enable quick assembly and disassembly, then ease of operation is improved, but secure fit and sealing are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism acts as an intermediary that incorporates sealing surfaces and complementary threading to ensure a secure fit. The coupling member and barrel member are designed with precise mating features that maintain reliability while enabling tool-free operation through their self-aligning threaded engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates localized sealing surfaces and precision-machined threaded portions at critical interfaces. These locally optimized features ensure secure attachment and proper sealing at the connection points while maintaining overall tool-free assembly capability
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional fabrication on existing barrel and upper receiver is performed to install coupling mechanisms, then adaptability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed with universal threading standards that can be integrated into existing firearm designs without requiring custom fabrication. The coupling member and barrel member feature standard threaded portions that can be adapted to various firearm platforms, reducing installation complexity while maintaining design integration
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
Enables quick and secure assembly/disassembly of the barrel, prevents dust and debris ingress, and is seamlessly integrated with the firearm, enhancing usability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member positioned and secured at a lower end of the spring sleeve
Data Source
AI summary
A firearm system capable of easily attaching and detaching an upper receiver and a barrel is disclosed. The upper receiver is operably coupled to a bearing case. A plurality of bearings are positioned on the bearing case for engaging dimpled slots on the surface of the barrel. A spring sleeve is engageable with the biasing member and circumscribes the bearing case, biasing member and bearings. A dust cover is engageable with the spring sleeve. In an engaged state, the bearing case, the spring sleeve, and the dust cover are assembled such that the upper receiver and barrel are substantially aligned.