Firearm Slide Loading Aid With Segmented Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loading aids for firearms compromise the stability and accuracy of the rear sight due to a direct mechanical connection, which affects their functionality.
Innovation Solution
A pin element projecting beyond the lateral faces of the slide is introduced into a horizontally oriented recess in the rear end face, allowing for an integral and direct fastening to the slide without affecting the sights, utilizing a plan-parallel panel with angled and grooved regions for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the loading aid is held by the rear sight of the slide, then the loading aid can be securely attached to the slide, but the stability and accuracy of the sights are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The loading aid is divided into separate functional components: a mounting element that attaches to the slide body (separate from the sight assembly) and a loading aid element that provides the charging handle functionality. This segmentation allows the mounting structure to be independent of the sight assembly, eliminating the mechanical connection between loading operations and sight stability.
Solution Approach 2:
A dedicated mounting element acts as an intermediary between the slide and the loading aid. This mounting element provides attachment points (such as tabs or lugs) that connect to corresponding recesses in the slide, serving as a buffer that isolates the sight assembly from the forces generated during loading operations.
2Device complexity
If the loading aid is integrated with the slide, then the design is simplified and direct fastening is achieved, but other slide-mounted components such as sights must be removed beforehand
Solution Approach 1:
The loading aid assembly is segmented into a removable mounting element and a separate loading aid element. This allows the mounting element to be permanently attached to the slide during manufacturing, while the loading aid element can be independently installed or removed by the user without affecting other slide components like sights.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting element is designed with universal attachment features that can accommodate different loading aid configurations. The mounting element serves multiple functions: providing structural support, enabling easy installation/removal, and maintaining compatibility with various sight configurations, thereby simplifying the overall design without compromising assembly ease.
3Strength
If the loading aid uses additional components for attachment, then secure fastening is achieved, but the attachment process requires significant additional work
Solution Approach 1:
The loading aid incorporates self-aligning features such as tapered surfaces or cam-action mechanisms that allow the loading aid element to automatically position itself correctly during installation. The user simply needs to insert the element and apply moderate pressure, and the self-service features ensure proper alignment and secure attachment without requiring complex tools or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting element serves as an intermediary that simplifies the attachment process by providing pre-formed attachment points and interfaces. These intermediaries absorb the complexity of the attachment mechanism, allowing the user to perform a simple insertion motion while the mounting element handles the complex tasks of alignment, positioning, and securing the loading aid to the slide.
Data Source
AI summary
A loading aid which projects beyond the lateral faces (220, 230) of the slide (200) and is attached in the region of a rear end face (210) of the slide (200) of a firearm is created by a panel (110) which projects beyond the lateral faces (220, 230) of the slide (200) with at least one of its lateral regions (120, 130) lying opposite one another and is introduced into a horizontally oriented recess (211) in the rear end face (210) of the slide (200).