Firearm Grip Selector Switch Lock with RFID Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional firearm locking mechanisms are externally mounted, leading to issues such as lost or incorrectly secured components, unauthorized access, and delayed access in emergency situations, as they do not effectively prevent unauthorized users from transitioning the selector switch from SAFE to FIRE.
Innovation Solution
A firearm grip with an internally located selector switch locking mechanism, incorporating a switch engagement unit with a motor, piston, and detent that secures the selector switch in the SAFE position, and an optional user authentication system using RFID technology, along with a torque limiter to prevent excessive force from disabling the mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external locking mechanisms are mounted on the firearm, then the selector switch can be protected from unauthorized access, but the device becomes prone to being lost, incorrectly secured, or delayed in emergency situations
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the firearm grip itself, making the grip serve dual purposes: as the handle and as the locking device housing. This integration eliminates separate external locks that can be lost or missecured, while maintaining protection against unauthorized access to the selector switch.
Solution Approach 2:
The grip-mounted locking mechanism provides self-service by being permanently attached to the firearm, eliminating the need for users to manually secure or attach separate locks. The mechanism is always in position to prevent unauthorized access without requiring user intervention to maintain its protective function.
2Reliability
If the selector switch is locked internally within the grip, then unauthorized access is prevented, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The grip is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as the firearm handle, houses the locking mechanism, and provides the interface for both authorized access and unauthorized prevention. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated locking components, thereby managing complexity while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary mechanism (the movable wall or piston with detent) is introduced between the selector switch and the external environment. This intermediary physically blocks access to the switch when engaged, providing a simple yet effective barrier that prevents unauthorized switching without requiring complex electronic or mechanical systems.
3Reliability
If a torque limiter is added to the selector switch, then excessive force is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque limiter introduces dynamic characteristics to the otherwise static selector switch mechanism. The switch can rotate freely under normal operating forces but automatically engages a limiting mechanism when excessive torque is applied, providing adaptive protection that responds to the magnitude of applied force without requiring complex control systems.
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
The internal locking mechanism ensures the selector switch remains in the SAFE position unless authenticated by the user, preventing accidental or unauthorized firing, while the RFID system allows immediate access when needed and the torque limiter prevents mechanical tampering.
Implementation Method 1
A user authentication unit in the form of an RFID interrogator and portable RFID chip
Implementation Method 2
The switch engagement unit including a motor, piston, spring and detent
Data Source
AI summary
A firearm grip with selector switch lock includes a handgrip for engaging a firearm receiver having a selector switch. A switch engagement unit is positioned within the handgrip. The switch engagement unit including a motor, piston, spring and detent for selectively engaging the selector switch of the receiver to which the handgrip is located. An RFID interrogator is positioned within the handgrip and communicates with a portable RFID chip. Upon detecting the presence of the RFID chip, the switch engagement unit moves the piston to the retracted position for manual free operation of the selector switch. Upon detecting the RFID chip is not within the proximity of the handgrip, the switch engagement unit moves the piston to the extended/SAFE position. A replacement selector switch having a torque limiter is provided.