Handgun Slide Assembly Using Segmented L-Shape Frame
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional handguns with hollow slides are complex and expensive due to their machined construction, contributing significantly to the overall cost and complexity of the firearm.
Innovation Solution
A semi-automatic pistol design featuring a slide assembly composed of two symmetrical halves with an L-shaped flat metal plate and molded plastic components, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost by using injection molded plastic for grip halves and a simple metal frame, with a recoil spring and breech bolt mechanism for slide operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a hollow machined slide is used in conventional handguns, then the slide provides necessary structural strength and functionality, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The slide is divided into two separate components: a simple outer frame and an inner slide assembly that moves within it. This segmentation allows each part to be manufactured independently using simpler processes, eliminating the need for complex hollow machining while maintaining the necessary structural integrity and sliding functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite construction combining the outer frame material with the inner slide assembly materials (metal components and polymer elements). This composite approach allows optimization of each component for its specific function while reducing overall manufacturing complexity compared to a single hollow machined slide.
2Strength
If a hollow machined slide is used in conventional handguns, then the slide provides necessary structural strength and functionality, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the slide into separate components that can be manufactured using standard, simpler processes and then assembled, the invention dramatically reduces manufacturing cost while maintaining structural strength. The outer frame and inner assembly can be produced using conventional machining and molding techniques rather than expensive hollow machining.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner slide assembly uses simpler, less expensive materials including polymer components instead of entirely metal construction. This substitution with cheaper materials maintains functionality while reducing manufacturing cost, aligning with the principle of using more economical materials where appropriate.
3Device complexity
If an L-shaped flat metal plate is used instead of a hollow slide, then manufacturing cost and complexity are reduced, but structural design must be reconfigured
Solution Approach 1:
The L-shaped flat metal plate serves as the outer frame structure, and the slide functionality is achieved through a separate inner assembly that moves within the frame. This segmentation allows the use of a simple geometric shape (L-shaped plate) without compromising the complex sliding mechanism, as the two are separated into distinct components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a traditional monolithic three-dimensional hollow slide to a two-dimensional L-shaped flat plate frame with a separate inner assembly. This dimensional simplification of the frame structure reduces manufacturing complexity while the inner assembly provides the necessary sliding functionality in a different spatial arrangement.
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
The design results in a less expensive and less complex handgun slide assembly that is easier to manufacture, while maintaining functionality, and reduces the overall weight of the pistol, making it more economical and efficient to produce.
Implementation Method 1
an elongated slide assembly with a recoil spring about a gun barrel
Data Source
AI summary
Handguns, pistols, devices, and methods with improved slides that are both less expensive and less complex than prior art hollow slides used in handguns. The pistol can be formed from two half sections that can be attached together with fasteners, such as screws. The half sections can include upper barrel half covers preformed with generally vertical grip halve parts. A novel L shaped slide assembly can be located between the attached upper barrel half covers.