Firearm Safety System Using Shape Memory Actuator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronically controlled trigger locking mechanisms for firearms are vulnerable to tampering and malfunction due to solenoids being overridden by magnets and fingerprint scanners being unreliable, especially when dirty or damaged.

Innovation Solution

An electronically controlled safety system (ECSS) that integrates a shape memory actuator module with a radio frequency identification (RFID) module, where an RFID tag, potentially worn by the user, transmits a unique code to an RFID reader, allowing current to flow to the actuator to immobilize the trigger mechanism, preventing unauthorized discharge.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If solenoids are used to lock the trigger mechanism, then the device can be actuated electrically, but the system becomes vulnerable to magnetic interference and tampering

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetamper resistanceVSAvoidmagnetic interference susceptibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the solenoid (electromagnetic actuator) with a shape memory alloy actuator that responds to electrical current rather than magnetic fields. This substitution eliminates the vulnerability to magnetic interference while maintaining electrical actuation capability. The shape memory alloy changes its physical shape in response to electrical current, providing a reliable locking mechanism that cannot be compromised by external magnets.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If fingerprint scanners are used for authentication, then unauthorized access can be prevented, but the system becomes unreliable when fingers are dirty or injured

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauthentication reliabilityVSAvoidoperational reliability under adverse conditions

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the optical fingerprint scanning system with an RFID-based authentication system. Instead of requiring physical contact and optical recognition of fingerprint patterns, the system uses radio frequency communication to verify the user's identity through an RFID tag. This substitution allows authentication to occur without direct skin contact, making the system reliable even when fingers are dirty, wet, or injured.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If RFID authentication is implemented, then quick and reliable access control is achieved, but the system requires additional electronic components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauthentication speedVSAvoidelectronic component quantity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the RFID reader, control logic, and shape memory alloy actuator into a unified authentication and locking system. The RFID reader is embedded within the firearm's handle, and the control module directly interfaces with the shape memory alloy actuator that controls the trigger lock. This merging of components streamlines the system architecture, reducing overall complexity while maintaining rapid authentication capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The ECSS provides a reliable and tamper-proof mechanism for preventing accidental or unauthorized firearm discharge, ensuring quick and secure operation by using a shape memory actuator immune to magnetic interference and maintaining functionality even when the user's finger is dirty or injured.

Implementation Method 1

a shape memory actuator module comprising a mechanical locking interface actuated by a shape memory actuator wherein the mechanical locking interface is designed to connect to the point of connection of the trigger mechanism interface and immobilize the trigger mechanism

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape memory effect: Shape Memory Alloy

Implementation Method 2

a radio frequency identification module comprising a radio frequency identification reader configured to send a radio frequency interrogation signal and to receive a predetermined activation code; a radio frequency identification tag configured to transmit the certain predetermined activation code when subjected to the radio frequency identification reader's interrogation signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRadio frequency identification:

Data Source

PatentUS11781827B2Electronically controlled safety system for use in firearms and a method for its use

Publication Date: 2023.10.10 FREE STATE FIREARMS LLC

AI summary

The present device is an electronically controlled safety system for use in firearms, comprising a shape memory actuator configured to connect a mechanical locking interface to a trigger mechanism interface comprising a point of connection to a firearm's trigger mechanism. This shape memory actuator can be controlled by use of an authentication system comprised of an RFID module and a control module. The user of the firearm can provide authorization to place the firearm in the armed position by placing an RFID tag having an activation code near the RFID module, which can then activate the shape memory actuator through the control module. When the mechanical locking interface is connected to the trigger mechanism interface a firearm's trigger mechanism is locked in place and the firearm is in a safe position and when the mechanical locking interface is not connected to the trigger mechanism is in an armed position.