Gas Selector with Locking Mechanism for Firearm Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas-operated firearms face challenges in adjusting gas pressure for optimal performance, including complex and costly mechanisms, tool-dependent adjustments, and unintended gas flow modifications, which hinder field usability and production efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A gas selector system with a flag-shaped handle and radially mounted selector bores of varying diameters, allowing tool-free, tactile adjustment of gas flow and pressure without compromising robustness or increasing production complexity, featuring a spring-loaded locking mechanism to prevent unintentional changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable gas control element is provided on the gas key for pressure regulation, then gas pressure can be adjusted, but the firearm cannot be in the ready-to-use state and quick adjustment is impossible in field conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The gas selector is designed to be both adjustable and lockable in multiple positions. It can be dynamically adjusted by the user and then locked in place to maintain readiness for field use, combining adaptability with operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas selector incorporates a spring-loaded locking mechanism that automatically locks when positioned, allowing the user to quickly adjust and secure the gas pressure without requiring complex tools or procedures, thus enabling rapid field adjustments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable piston is provided in the gas block to regulate gas pressure, then gas pressure can be varied, but the number of necessary bores increases and machining complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gas selector serves multiple functions: it regulates gas pressure, provides a locking mechanism for maintaining settings, and can be positioned in multiple locations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and complex bore arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas selector combines the gas pressure regulation function with the locking mechanism and positioning features into a single integrated component, reducing the total number of bores and simplifying machining requirements compared to separate adjustable pistons and locking mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If threaded adjusting screws are provided in the gas block for gas flow control, then gas pressure can be regulated, but manufacturing costs increase and contamination susceptibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gas selector uses a simple, non-threaded adjustment mechanism that is easier and cheaper to manufacture. The lack of threaded surfaces reduces contamination susceptibility and simplifies cleaning, making it more suitable for field conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex threaded mechanical adjustment systems with a simpler, non-threaded mechanism that achieves gas flow control through alternative means, reducing manufacturing complexity and eliminating the contamination issues associated with threaded surfaces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If slidable bodies with different diameter bores are provided in the gas block, then gas pressure can be adjusted, but gap surface area increases and gas escape is facilitated
Solution Approach 1:
The gas selector extracts the gas flow control function from the gas block and places it in a dedicated, self-contained component. This separation allows for precise control of gas flow through the selector's bores while minimizing gas escape through the gas block itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas selector acts as an intermediary component between the gas block and the gas tube. It provides a controlled pathway for gas flow, preventing direct gas escape through the gas block while maintaining the ability to adjust pressure through its variable diameter bores.
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 easy, reliable, and cost-effective adjustment of gas pressure in both direct and indirect systems, ensuring consistent performance and preventing unwanted gas escape or illumination, while maintaining a simple and robust design for field use.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded locking mechanism to prevent unintentional changes
Implementation Method 2
The high energy of the gas pressure is used to unlock and open the lock and to eject the empty shell
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a
Figure 3b
AI summary
The invention concerns a firearm, with gas-operated reloading, wherein the gas block 3 comprises a gas selector 4 movable between at least two positions, For smooth operation, the gas selector 4 in the gas block 3 is rotatable into at least two positions about its primary axis and is designed to be axially displaceable along the same between at least two positions. A stop pin 8 is arranged to cooperate with a control surface 7 of the gas selector 4 with complementary form and function, and the locking device has a spring-loaded locking pin 16 which can yield normally to the primary axis to temporarily lock the gas selector 4 in a predetermined position.