Firearm Locking Block and Barrel Assembly for Rapid Caliber Exchange
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional firearms have a reduced structural integrity in their connection members and a cumbersome process for barrel replacement and caliber changes, with conventional slide constructions failing to accommodate alternate caliber ammunition effectively due to inadequate engagement with the extractor pin.
Innovation Solution
A locking block and barrel assembly with a shoulder and notch configuration and a removable shim in the slide to facilitate rapid barrel exchange and ensure effective engagement of alternate ammunition sizes, featuring a durable connection between the barrel and receiver, and a shim to adjust for different calibers without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional connection members are used to connect the barrel to the receiver, then the firearm can be assembled, but the structural integrity of the connection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional elements: the locking block with shoulder and notch configurations, the barrel with corresponding mating features, and the extractor pin assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking block is positioned within the receiver and barrel assembly, with the extractor pin nested within the locking block structure. This nested arrangement consolidates multiple connection functions into a compact integrated assembly, improving structural integrity without excessive complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple pins and points of removal are used to secure the barrel, then the connection is secured, but the barrel replacement process becomes slow and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The extractor pin is extracted as a separate removable component that secures the locking block to the receiver. This allows the barrel assembly to be quickly removed by extracting a single pin rather than multiple pins, reducing barrel replacement time while maintaining reliable connection during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking block is pre-configured with the shoulder and notch features that align with corresponding features on the barrel and receiver. This preliminary configuration ensures that when the extractor pin is removed, the components can be quickly separated without requiring additional disassembly steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional slide construction is used, then the slide can be manufactured, but it cannot accommodate alternate caliber ammunition effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The slide is designed with adjustable characteristics through the shim configuration system. By changing the shim thickness or configuration, the slide can adapt to different caliber ammunition dimensions. This dynamic adjustability provides caliber versatility without requiring multiple dedicated slide designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The effective parameters of the slide (such as extractor pin position, ejection port dimensions, and chamber alignment) can be changed by modifying the shim configuration. This allows the same slide structure to accommodate different caliber parameters, enhancing adaptability while controlling construction complexity.
4Reliability
If the extractor pin engagement is not optimized, then the slide construction is simple, but the engagement with alternate caliber ammunition is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The extractor pin and surrounding slide structure are designed with localized features specifically optimized for ammunition engagement. The shim configuration allows local adjustments to the extractor pin position and geometry to match different caliber requirements, ensuring reliable engagement without redesigning the entire slide.
Data Source
AI summary
A firearm assembly including a receiver, a barrel, a locking block and a slide configured to provide rapid changing of a barrel of a handgun wherein the barrel may be for an alternate caliber round of ammunition. The locking block is configured to be secured within the receiver and includes an upper surface that has front rise member, a rear rise member and a valley intermediate thereto. The upper surface of the locking block is mateably shaped with the second portion of the barrel, in particular the lower portion thereof. The lower portion includes a front shoulder member, a rear shoulder member and a notch formed therebetween wherein the notch is configured to mateably engage the rear rise member of the locking block. The slide of the present invention includes a void intermediate the sidewall and the extractor housing. A shim is provided to be secured within the void.