Firearm Thumb Rest Integrated with Safety Selector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Precision rifles lack innovative features that enhance usability, particularly in compact storage and efficient trigger mechanisms, and often have inadequate thumb support during operation.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a compound lever trigger mechanism, a folding stock system with a latch mechanism, and a thumb rest incorporated into the safety selector switch, which provides a compact storage solution and improved ergonomic support.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a folding stock system is implemented for compact storage, then the storage space requirement is reduced, but mechanical play and stability are increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage space requirementVSAvoidmechanical play

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The stock is designed to be dynamically configurable between extended and folded positions, allowing the rifle to adapt its form factor based on operational needs versus storage requirements. The quick-release latch mechanism enables rapid transition between these states without permanent structural compromise.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The stock assembly is segmented into separable components connected by a quick-release latch mechanism, allowing the stock to be detached or folded independently from the receiver. This segmentation enables compact storage while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If a thumb rest is added to the safety selector switch, then ergonomic thumb support is improved, but device complexity is increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveergonomic thumb supportVSAvoidsafety selector structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The thumb rest is merged with the safety selector switch assembly, combining two functional elements (safety selection and thumb support) into a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for separate thumb rest hardware while providing ergonomic support during operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The safety selector switch assembly serves dual functions: controlling the safety/fire mode and providing a thumb rest surface for ergonomic handling. This multi-functionality reduces overall component count while improving user comfort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If precision rifle features are optimized for performance, then shooting accuracy is improved, but ease of manufacture is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshooting accuracyVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The rifle is divided into modular segments (receiver, stock, barrel assembly, trigger group) that can be manufactured independently using standard machining processes. This segmentation allows precision components to be produced separately and assembled, balancing manufacturing ease with final assembly precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12140390B1Firearm thumb rest

Publication Date: 2024.11.12 HECKLER & KOCH INC

AI summary

Provided is a thumb rest for a firearm having a rotating safety selector. It includes a rotatable safety selector and a thumb shelf attached to an external axial end of the safety selector.