Modular Firearm Barrel Coupling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional barrel coupling mechanisms for modular rifles are difficult to assemble and disassemble quickly, require specialized tools, and often result in a non-secure fit, exposing the barrel to dust and debris, posing safety and functional hazards.
Innovation Solution
A barrel coupling mechanism featuring a ball bearing case with a biasing member and spring sleeve that allows for tool-free assembly and disassembly, providing a secure and sealed connection between the barrel and upper receiver through a system of ball bearings and grooves, ensuring proper alignment and protection from contaminants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threaded engagement is used to connect barrel and upper receiver, then secure fit is achieved, but assembly and disassembly require specialized tools and significant time
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into distinct segments: a coupling body with internal threads, a barrel extension with external threads, and a locking mechanism with movable locking elements. This segmentation allows the barrel to be securely connected through threaded engagement while enabling quick release through actuation of the locking elements, resolving the contradiction between secure fit and quick assembly/disassembly
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to transition between locked and unlocked positions. When actuated, the locking elements move to disengage from the barrel extension, enabling rapid disassembly without tools. This dynamic feature maintains secure fit during operation while allowing quick disassembly when needed
2Reliability
If traditional threaded engagement is used to connect barrel and upper receiver, then secure fit is achieved, but the process requires specialized tools and bench vise
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be self-servicing during assembly and disassembly. The locking elements are actuated by a simple mechanism that allows the user to quickly secure or release the barrel without requiring specialized tools or equipment like a bench vise. The threaded engagement provides self-aligning features that facilitate easy assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is segmented into modular components with standardized interfaces. The coupling body, barrel extension, and locking mechanism are separate but interoperable parts that can be assembled together without specialized tools, making the system easy to operate while maintaining secure fit
3Loss of time
If tool-free retrofitted coupling mechanism is used, then assembly and disassembly time is reduced, but secure fit cannot be accomplished
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism merges two functions into a single integrated system: threaded engagement for secure fit and movable locking elements for quick release. The locking elements work in conjunction with the threaded connection to provide both secure attachment during operation and rapid disassembly when needed, eliminating the trade-off between security and speed
4Ease of operation
If prior art coupling mechanisms are used, then assembly is simplified, but barrel is exposed to dust and debris
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism incorporates sealing elements that create a protective barrier between the barrel interior and the external environment. These seals prevent dust and debris from entering the barrel while maintaining the simplified tool-free assembly operation. The sealing features are integrated into the coupling body and locking mechanism without complicating the assembly process
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 rapid and secure attachment and detachment of the barrel, maintaining rifle functionality and safety while preventing dust and debris ingress, without the need for additional fabrication or tools.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member positioned on the upper surface of the bearing case
Data Source
AI summary
A modular 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 biasing member is positioned on the bearing case. A plurality of bearings are positioned on the bearing case. A spring sleeve is engageable with the biasing member and circumscribes the bearing case, biasing member and bearings. A face plate is positioned adjacent to the bearing case and fixedly coupled thereto. The face plate engages the spring sleeve such that the biasing member and bearings are enclosed within the spring sleeve and the face plate. A barrel sleeve is operably coupled to the barrel. In an engaged state, the barrel sleeve is positioned within the bearing case and the bearings are positioned between the barrel sleeve and bearing case such that the upper receiver and barrel are substantially aligned.