Firearm Sight Mounting Platform for Interchangeable Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aftermarket sights on firearms often introduce misalignment issues due to differing heights, requiring frequent recalibration and limiting the ability to switch between sights based on shooting environments.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable sighting system with a mounting location on the firearm featuring a groove and recessed surface, along with a sight mounting platform that secures aftermarket sights at a fixed height, allowing for precise alignment and adjustment without re-sighting the firearm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If aftermarket sights are mounted onto a firearm, then the ability to use different types of sights in different circumstances is improved, but misalignment issues are introduced requiring frequent recalibration
Solution Approach 1:
A mounting platform is introduced as an intermediary component between the firearm and the aftermarket sight. The platform includes a mounting location with mounting components that engage with corresponding components on the sight, providing a precise reference interface that maintains alignment while allowing sight interchangeability
Solution Approach 2:
The sighting system is divided into separate modular components: the mounting location integrated into the firearm, the removable mounting platform, and the interchangeable sights. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining precise alignment through the standardized interface
2Ease of manufacture
If aftermarket sights are mounted at a different height than original sights, then the sight can be installed on the firearm, but the point of aim is no longer precisely aligned with the original sight level
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting location is designed with specific local features including a groove or recess at a predetermined depth and mounting components positioned at specific locations. These localized structural features ensure that when the platform is installed, it automatically positions the sight at the correct height and orientation relative to the original sight level
3Measurement precision
If the firearm is resighted each time a new sight is used, then the sight can be properly aligned, but the time required for switching between sights increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting location and mounting components are pre-configured on the firearm and platform respectively, establishing the precise alignment relationship in advance. When a sight is mounted on the platform, the pre-established mounting interface automatically provides the correct alignment, eliminating the need for time-consuming resighting operations
Data Source
AI summary
A firearm having a mounting surface which can include a recess formed on a slide of a pistol. The recess includes mounting posts and a plurality of sights include matching openings and fasteners so that mounting platforms of the plurality of sights can be mounted in the recess in a fixed orientation. The sights of the plurality of sights are movable relative to the platform but the platform is fixed with respect to the recess so that the platform is fixed with respect to the mounting surface. The recess is sized such that optical sights are aligned with original fixed sights.