Dual Independent Safety Mechanism for Firearm Trigger Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current safety mechanisms for firearms, such as semi-automatic and automatic weapons, do not provide an independent additional safety feature that can be controlled mechanically or electronically, leading to potential accidental shootings, especially in training environments where inexperienced users may inadvertently switch the selector to the firing position.
Innovation Solution
A dual safety system is introduced, comprising a manual safety and an additional independent safety mechanism that can be controlled by the user or remotely, ensuring the weapon remains in a safe state unless both safeties are in the firing position, with the additional safety being actuated quickly and efficiently to prevent accidental firings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a manual safety mechanism is used to block trigger movement, then shooting is impeded when in safety position, but the weapon can still be accidentally discharged if the selector is mistakenly switched to firing position
Solution Approach 1:
The safety mechanism is divided into two independent components: a manual safety selector and an additional independent safety mechanism. Each safety can independently block the trigger, so that even if one safety is accidentally switched, the other remains functional to prevent accidental discharge.
Solution Approach 2:
The additional safety mechanism is positioned to preemptively block the trigger path before the manual safety can be accidentally switched to firing position. The safety body is preliminarily arranged in a position that intercepts the trigger's movement path, preventing the trigger from reaching the release point.
2Reliability
If an additional safety device is added to intercept the kinematic chain, then accidental shooting is prevented, but space inside the weapon is occupied that could be used for other accessories
Solution Approach 1:
The additional safety mechanism is nested within the existing weapon structure, utilizing unused or underutilized spaces. The safety body is positioned in a recess or cavity that does not interfere with the weapon's external dimensions or internal accessory mounting areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The safety body moves in a dimension that is orthogonal to the trigger's movement path, allowing it to block the trigger without occupying the same spatial volume. This dimensional approach enables the safety mechanism to be compact and not interfere with other accessories.
3Reliability
If multiple safety elements are added to the weapon, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The additional safety mechanism is merged with the existing trigger assembly and selector structure. Both safeties share common mounting points and structural elements, reducing the overall complexity despite adding a second independent safety function.
Solution Approach 2:
The additional safety mechanism serves multiple functions: it blocks the trigger path, provides an independent safety layer, and can be controlled by both the weapon carrier and a controlling user. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
4Reliability
If a controlling user can remotely control the safety position, then safety control is improved for training environments, but the device complexity and control system requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A mechanical linkage or cable system serves as an intermediary between the controlling user and the safety mechanism. This intermediary transmits the controlling user's input to the safety body without requiring complex electronic systems, maintaining simplicity while enabling remote control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides options for controlling the additional safety either mechanically (through direct linkage) or electronically (through motors or actuators). This substitution allows flexibility in control system design, enabling remote control while adapting to different complexity requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device comprises a trigger and a first safety, the invention focusing on the fact that the device comprises a second safety which actuates independently of the first safety, said second safety comprising an actuating element and a safety body, made from a single piece or independent pieces joined together when they move, such that the second safety determines the state of the weapon, between at least a firing state and safe state. Likewise, the invention relates to the method for securing firearms.