Firearm Breechblock Locking Mechanism for Rapid Safe Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearm safety systems either require excessive time to transition from a safe to a functional state or restrict authorized users from using the firearm due to malfunctioning verification systems, limiting their effectiveness in exigent situations.
Innovation Solution
A safety system for firearms that includes an engagement member rotatable between unlock and lock positions, coupled with a lock mechanism and user interface, allowing quick transition to a functional state while maintaining a separation distance between the firing pin and primer, and enabling authorized user access through biometric or electronic verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secure container is used to store the firearm, then unauthorized access is prevented, but access time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the firearm into two states: a secure non-functional state stored in a container, and a functional state deployed at the point of need. The engagement member creates a mechanical disconnect that segments the firing mechanism from the trigger, allowing the firearm to be secure during storage but rapidly functional when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement member is pre-positioned in a disengaged state during storage, allowing the firearm to transition to a functional state immediately upon deployment without requiring complex unlocking procedures. The preliminary positioning of the engagement member enables rapid transition from secure storage to operational readiness.
2Reliability
If a locking apparatus is attached to the firearm, then unauthorized discharge is prevented, but transition to functional state requires complete removal which takes time
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement member transitions from a static locking apparatus to a dynamic component that can rapidly shift between engaged and disengaged states. The member is designed to be quickly manipulated from a locked position (preventing discharge) to an unlocked position (enabling fire), reducing transition time while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The critical safety function is extracted from a complex locking apparatus and embodied in a simple engagement member that only needs to be disengaged rather than completely removed. This extraction of the essential locking function allows for faster transition while maintaining the core safety capability.
3Reliability
If a user verification system is implemented, then unauthorized use is prevented, but authorized users may be restricted due to system malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement member is designed to be manually operated by the authorized user without requiring external verification systems. The user directly manipulates the engagement member to transition the firearm between safe and functional states, eliminating dependency on electronic or biometric verification systems that may malfunction.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for the making safe of a firearm. A safety system includes a lock mechanism coupled to an engagement member and a user interface. The engagement member is movably coupled to the firearm and rotatable between an unlock position and a lock position. A contact face of the engagement member is in contact with an outer surface of a distal portion of a breechblock in the lock position and precludes a distal movement of the breechblock. The engagement member is configured to transition between the lock position and the unlock position while remaining movably coupled to the handgun. Movement of the engagement member from the lock position is restricted by the lock mechanism until disengaged via the user interface.