Firearm Magazine Release Button with Interchangeable Finger Pad
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing magazine release button arrangements on firearms, such as the AR-15, are prone to inadvertent activation due to partial protection by ridges and lack ergonomic design, leading to functional shortcomings.
Innovation Solution
A magazine release button assembly featuring a button member with a projection and a finger pad member that is slidably and releasably attached, providing increased surface area and improved ergonomics through interchangeable finger pad members with various shapes and textures, secured via apertures and fasteners to prevent rotational movement and enhance user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional magazine release button is used with partial ridge protection, then inadvertent activation is reduced, but the button lacks ergonomic design and provides insufficient surface area for user contact
Solution Approach 1:
The magazine release button is divided into two separate components: a button member and a finger pad member. The button member contains the internal aperture and mechanical function, while the finger pad member provides the ergonomic contact surface with increased area. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The finger pad member is designed to fit over the button member, with the button member nested within the finger pad member's internal aperture. This nested configuration allows the smaller functional button to be housed within the larger ergonomic finger pad, combining both requirements in a compact assembly.
2Reliability
If the magazine release button is protected by ridges, then inadvertent activation is prevented, but the button becomes difficult to access and operate intentionally
Solution Approach 1:
The finger pad member is designed with differentiated local qualities: the outer perimeter provides protection similar to ridges, while the inner contact surface is optimized for finger placement and intentional activation. This local differentiation allows the button to maintain protection while improving accessibility at the specific location where user contact occurs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single integrated button design is used, then manufacturing is simple, but the design lacks adaptability and cannot be customized for individual preferences
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the button into a button member and a finger pad member, the design enables adaptability and customization. Different finger pad members with varying shapes, sizes, and textures can be developed to suit individual user preferences, while the core button member remains standardized for manufacturing efficiency.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the finger pad member is permanently attached to the button member, then structural integrity is maintained, but interchangeability and customization are eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment between the finger pad member and button member is designed to be dynamically adjustable. The finger pad member can be securely attached when needed for stability, yet easily removed and replaced when customization is desired. This dynamic attachment system allows the composition to transition between stable and interchangeable states as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A magazine release button assembly for a firearm, including at least some of a button member, wherein the button member includes a projection extending from an end of the button member, and wherein the projection comprises a dovetail projection; and a finger pad member, wherein the finger pad member includes a recess, wherein the recess comprises a dovetail recess, wherein the dovetail recess is mateable with the dovetail projection of the button member, and wherein the finger pad member is secured to the end of the button member via interaction of the dovetail projection and the dovetail recess.