Handgun Grip Module Reinforcing Bracket for Recoil Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Handguns with polymer grip modules face challenges in distributing recoil energy evenly, leading to potential bulkiness and reduced durability compared to metal counterparts, while maintaining a compact and lightweight design.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a metallic bracket within the polymer grip module that contacts the recoil block and frame lugs, distributing recoil forces more evenly across the grip module, thereby enhancing durability and reducing bulk.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If a polymer grip module is used instead of a metal frame, then the handgun becomes lightweight and compact, but the durability and recoil energy distribution are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandgun weightVSAvoidgrip module durability

Core Design Contradiction:

Weight of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines polymer material for the grip module body with a metallic bracket embedded within it. The polymer provides lightweight and compact properties, while the metallic bracket embedded in the polymer grip module provides enhanced strength and durability to withstand recoil forces, creating a composite structure that achieves both lightweight design and structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The metallic bracket is strategically positioned at specific locations within the polymer grip module where recoil forces are concentrated. This localized reinforcement provides enhanced strength exactly where needed without adding unnecessary weight throughout the entire grip module, allowing the majority of the structure to remain lightweight polymer

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Volume of moving object

If a polymer grip module is used instead of a metal frame, then the handgun becomes compact, but the recoil forces are not distributed evenly, reducing reliability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrip module sizeVSAvoidrecoil energy distribution

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The metallic bracket acts as an intermediary element between the polymer grip module and the frame. It mediates the transmission of recoil forces by providing a rigid structural pathway that distributes forces evenly across the grip module, preventing stress concentration and improving reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10648769B2Handgun grip module with a reinforcing bracket

Publication Date: 2020.05.12 SIG SAUER INC

AI summary

A handgun grip module includes a body portion extending longitudinally with a first body sidewall, a second body sidewall spaced from the first body sidewall, and a bottom body portion extending between and connecting the first body sidewall and the second body sidewall. The body portion has a distal body portion defining a recoil spring channel and a proximal body portion defining a frame box. A recoil block in the body portion is positioned between the recoil spring channel and the frame box and extends laterally between the first body sidewall and the second body sidewall. The recoil block has a distal face and a proximal face. A metallic bracket is disposed against the distal face of the recoil block. A handgrip portion extends transversely down from the body portion and defines a magazine well extending therethrough to the frame box.