Flush Switch for Handgun Laser Sight

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laser sight power switches on handguns are ineffective when the user's middle finger does not firmly grasp the grip, leading to 'limp wristing,' and there is a need for adaptable mounting solutions for various gun frame geometries.

Innovation Solution

A flexible, surface-mounted switch and electrical lead system that forms an electrical connection between the laser sight and the handgun frame, allowing for passive user operation and accommodating different handgun geometries through adjustable and removable components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a switch is placed on the handgun grip under the trigger guard, then the laser sight can be switched on, but the switch fails to function when the user's middle finger does not firmly grasp the grip (limp wristing)

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser sight switching operationVSAvoidswitch functionality under limp wristing
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the handgun's own recoil impulse to automatically power on the laser sight. The impact switch is triggered by the rearward movement of the handgun during recoil, eliminating the need for manual finger activation. This self-service mechanism ensures the laser sight activates automatically when needed most, during the recoil phase of firing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The laser sight is pre-configured to be in a ready state with the impact switch mechanism already in place. The system prepares the switching mechanism in advance so that upon recoil occurrence, the laser sight can be immediately activated without requiring any additional user action during the critical moment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Strength

If a fixed geometry switch mounting system is used, then the switch can be securely mounted, but it cannot accommodate various different geometries of handgun frames

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoidcompatibility with different handgun geometries
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical connection system uses flexible printed circuit boards (FPC) instead of rigid wiring. The FPC can bend and conform to different handgun frame geometries while maintaining secure electrical connections. This dynamic flexibility allows the same mounting system to adapt to various handgun shapes and sizes without compromising connection integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The impact switch assembly is designed as a universal component that can be mounted on different handgun frames using the same basic mechanism. The flexible circuit board and adjustable positioning features enable a single design to serve multiple handgun geometries, making the system multi-functional across different firearm platforms.

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

3Reliability

If traditional wiring methods are used to connect the switch to the laser sight, then electrical connection can be established, but the wiring cannot accommodate various handgun geometries and requires complex routing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidwiring routing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional rigid wiring with flexible printed circuit boards (FPC). These thin, flexible circuits can be routed along the contours of the handgun frame and laser sight assembly, providing reliable electrical connections while adapting to various geometries. The flexible nature of FPC eliminates the need for complex wire management and reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS10054396B2Flush switch for handgun accessory
Publication Date: 2018.08.21 HOVSEPIAN RICHARD GEORGE
  • US10054396B2 patent drawing
  • US10054396B2 patent drawing
  • US10054396B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A handgun mounted accessory such as a laser sight is combined with a trigger-guard mounted flush profile switch to provide high reliability of operation. The switch is designed and located to provide passive user switching in use without separate movement or applied force of the user's hand or fingers.