Firearm Locking Block and Slide Shim for Rapid Barrel Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional semi-automatic handgun barrel connection systems have reduced structural integrity and require cumbersome multi-pin removal processes, making it slow to change barrels or switch between calibers, and conventional slides do not 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 on the locking block and a removable shim in the slide to facilitate rapid barrel exchange and ensure effective engagement of alternate ammunition sizes, featuring a pin aperture for secure locking and a shim to adjust for different calibers without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional connection members (multiple pins) are used to connect the barrel to the receiver, then the structural integrity is reduced, but the barrel connection is secure
Solution Approach 1:
The locking block is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion that interfaces with the receiver, a barrel interface portion that connects to the barrel, and integrated shoulder/notch features that provide alignment and locking. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall connection system compared to multiple separate pins.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking block merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: it combines the barrel connection function, the alignment function (through shoulders and notches), and the structural support function that were previously distributed across multiple pins and separate components. This consolidation improves structural integrity while reducing complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple pins are used to secure the barrel, then the connection is secure, but the barrel exchange process becomes slow and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The locking block separates the connection function into two independent operations: insertion (guided by shoulders and notches) and removal (via the aperture). This segmentation allows rapid barrel exchange by eliminating the need to manipulate multiple pins, while the aperture provides a single secure locking point that maintains connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The shoulder and notch features are pre-configured on the locking block to automatically align with corresponding features on the barrel during insertion. This preliminary alignment action occurs before the final locking engagement, enabling rapid and accurate barrel changes without requiring precise manual positioning or multiple adjustment steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional slide construction is used, then the slide structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate alternate caliber ammunition effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The slide incorporates adjustable elements (such as removable shims or adjustable extractor pin positions) that allow the extractor pin's position to be dynamically adjusted for different caliber ammunition. This dynamic adjustability enables the slide to accommodate various caliber sizes while maintaining effective engagement, transforming a static structure into an adaptable system.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide design allows for parameter changes in the extractor assembly's position and configuration to match different ammunition calibers. By adjusting parameters such as the extractor pin's lateral position or the slide's internal dimensions, the same slide construction can effectively engage different caliber rounds without requiring complete redesign.
4Reliability
If the extractor pin engagement is optimized for one caliber, then engagement is effective for that caliber, but alternate caliber ammunition cannot be effectively engaged
Solution Approach 1:
The extractor assembly is designed with universal adaptability to engage multiple caliber ammunition types. Through adjustable positioning mechanisms or interchangeable components, the extractor pin can be configured to effectively engage different caliber rounds, making a single extractor assembly capable of performing the function for multiple ammunition types rather than requiring caliber-specific extractors.
Solution Approach 2:
The extractor pin's engagement parameters (position, depth, angle) can be adjusted to match different caliber requirements. This parameter adjustment allows the extractor to maintain reliable engagement with alternate caliber ammunition while preserving effective engagement with the original caliber, enabling one extractor assembly to serve multiple functions across different ammunition types.
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.