Firearm Receiver Interlocking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing receiver assembly of firearms experiences undesirable deflection and stress on the lower receiver due to the impact force from the buffer and bolt assembly, leading to gaps between the upper and lower receivers, which is not effectively mitigated by current designs.
Innovation Solution
An upper receiver and lower receiver assembly with interlocking engagement surfaces, including projections and notches, that provide an interlocking relationship to limit deflection and distribute the impact load across multiple components, allowing the lower receiver to pivot and reducing stress on the lower receiver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the receiver extension tube is coupled to the lower receiver via a screw thread, then the user can attach a stock to the firearm, but the impact force from the buffer and bolt assembly causes deflection and stress on the lower receiver resulting in an undesirable gap between the upper receiver and the lower receiver
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement surface is segmented into multiple projections and corresponding notches, distributing the load across multiple contact points rather than a single interface, thereby reducing stress concentration and preventing gap formation between receivers
Solution Approach 2:
The projections on one engagement surface are nested within notches on the opposing surface, creating an interlocking configuration that mechanically couples the upper and lower receivers while maintaining alignment under impact loads
2Adaptability or versatility
If the lower receiver is designed to house the buffer and bolt assembly, then the firearm can function, but the rearward end of the receiver extension tube receives impact force causing stress on the lower receiver
Solution Approach 1:
The impact load is segmented and distributed across multiple projections and notches rather than concentrated at a single interface, reducing the stress on the lower receiver while maintaining the ability to house the buffer and bolt assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement interface combines multiple geometric features (projections, notches, locking surfaces) to create a composite structural solution that simultaneously provides strength, flexibility for receiver pivoting, and impact load distribution
3Stability of the object's composition
If the engagement surfaces are positioned inwardly of the exterior surfaces, then the interlocking relationship is achieved, but the complexity of the receiver assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement surfaces are segmented into discrete projections and notches that can be manufactured as integral features of the receiver bodies, achieving interlocking functionality without requiring additional separate components or complex assembly procedures
Data Source
AI summary
An upper receiver and lower receiver assembly for a firearm. The upper receiver and lower receiver assembly comprises an upper receiver. The upper receiver comprises a body having a rearward end and a first engagement surface proximate to the rearward end. A lower receiver comprises a housing configured to couple with the upper receiver. The housing has a rearward end and a second engagement surface proximate to the rearward end. The second engagement surface defines a recess adapted to receive the first engagement surface to provide an interlocking relationship between the upper and lower receivers. A firearm comprising the upper receiver and lower receiver assembly and a method of assembling the upper receiver and lower receiver assembly are disclosed.