Firearm Trigger Assembly with Bent Bar for DA/SA Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing trigger assemblies for firearms are difficult to convert between double-action (DA) and single-action (SA) systems, and adjusting trigger characteristics such as trigger path and pressure point is complex, often requiring multiple components and being prone to unintentional discharges when the firearm is bumped or dropped.

Innovation Solution

A trigger assembly with a striker assembly, a trigger bar bent twice, a pawl mount, and a sear that allows for simple conversion between SA and DA systems, includes a trigger spring for reliable operation and reduced components, and features a design that prevents unintentional discharges by locking the pawl mount in place.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a trigger assembly is designed to allow conversion between DA and SA systems, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple components and configurations required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion between DA and SA systemsVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger bar is designed with a universal structure that can function in both DA and SA modes. The bent trigger bar configuration with specific geometric features allows it to perform multiple functions: blocking the firing pin flag in SA mode and enabling the full DA sequence. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate trigger bars for different modes, reducing component quantity while maintaining conversion capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The trigger assembly is segmented into modular components including the trigger bar, sear, connector, and firing pin flag, each with specific functional zones. The trigger bar is divided into a front bent section and rear bent section with distinct functions, allowing independent optimization of each segment while maintaining overall system adaptability for both DA and SA operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a trigger assembly uses multiple trigger springs and auxiliary elements to adjust trigger characteristics, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment of trigger characteristicsVSAvoidnumber of auxiliary elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Trigger characteristics are adjusted by changing geometric parameters of existing components rather than adding auxiliary elements. The trigger bar's bent sections have specific angles and positions that define trigger path length and pressure point location. The sear's geometric features and its mounting position on the pawl mount allow parameter adjustment for different trigger pulls without requiring additional springs or elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The trigger assembly employs dynamic geometric relationships where components move relative to each other during operation. The bent trigger bar sections create dynamic leverage ratios that change during the trigger pull, enabling varied trigger characteristics. The sear's rotation and the connector's movement create dynamic interaction that adjusts trigger feel and resistance without additional auxiliary elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the locking protrusion or locking element is removed from the path of the firing pin flag due to inertia during impact, then reliability is improved against jamming, but unintentional discharges increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance to jamming during impactVSAvoidunintentional discharge
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The sear is designed with a preliminary blocking feature where its geometric shape and position preemptively prevent the firing pin flag from moving forward during impact events. The sear's configuration creates a mechanical interference that counteracts the inertial movement of the firing pin flag before unintentional discharge can occur, while still allowing legitimate trigger actuation to overcome this blocking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The trigger bar's bent sections are positioned to establish preliminary mechanical engagement with the sear and connector before impact occurs. This preliminary engagement creates a pre-loaded mechanical lock that resists disruption during impact, ensuring the firing pin remains blocked unless the trigger is deliberately actuated, thereby preventing unintentional discharges while maintaining impact resistance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Ease of operation

If a trigger assembly is designed for simple conversion between SA and DA systems, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion simplicityVSAvoidgeometric tolerances of trigger bar
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger bar employs asymmetric bent sections with specific geometric features that provide inherent mechanical guidance and self-alignment during assembly. The asymmetric design includes features like the front bent section with specific curvature and the rear bent section with distinct angular characteristics, which naturally guide the component into correct position during assembly, reducing the need for tight manufacturing tolerances while enabling simple conversion between modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

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

Enables easy adaptation of trigger characteristics, reduces the risk of unintentional discharges, and minimizes the number of components, allowing for reliable and efficient operation while maintaining drop/jar protection.

Implementation Method 1

a trigger spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

a spring-loaded firing pin

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS11920882B2Trigger assembly for a firearm
Publication Date: 2024.03.05 GLOCK TECH
  • US11920882B2 patent drawing
  • US11920882B2 patent drawing
  • US11920882B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Trigger assemblies for firearms, such as pistols, that include a striker assembly with a spring-loaded firing pin and downwardly-protruding firing pin flag for interaction with the trigger assembly. The trigger assemblies include a trigger, a trigger spring, a trigger bar with a connector protrusion for cooperation with a connector that can be inserted into the trigger housing, and the trigger bar is formed to cooperate with a pawl mount, and a sear is provided to cooperate with the firing pin flag.