Conditional Locking Mechanism for Handgun Slide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handgun locking mechanisms do not allow for conditional locking of the slide and barrel assembly, which is necessary to prevent semiautomatic action when required, such as in loading or unloading, and fail to automatically unlock after discharge, necessitating manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
A conditional locking mechanism that engages the slide and barrel assembly when the trigger is pulled, using a trigger sear, linkage bar, locking lug, and selector lever to lock the slide, and automatically unlocks it when the trigger is released, allowing manual cycling, and can be deactivated for semiautomatic function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent semiautomatic action, then safety and regulatory compliance are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing trigger assembly by integrating a block element that interfaces with both the trigger and slide. This combination approach adds locking functionality without requiring a completely separate mechanism, thereby improving safety while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The block element serves multiple functions: it acts as both a trigger component and a locking element that can prevent slide reciprocation. This multi-functionality allows the mechanism to provide conditional locking (improving safety) while using existing structural elements rather than adding dedicated separate components.
2Ease of operation
If the locking mechanism automatically unlocks after discharge, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically unlock itself after discharge through the trigger's natural movement. When the trigger is released after firing, the block element automatically returns to its unlocked position, enabling the slide to reciprocate again. This self-service feature improves ease of operation by eliminating manual intervention while using the existing trigger spring and movement mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the block element interfaces with both trigger and slide, then functionality is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The block element is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and then assembled into the trigger assembly. This segmentation allows for specialized precision manufacturing of the block element's interfacing surfaces while keeping the overall manufacturing process manageable through modular assembly rather than requiring high precision in a single monolithic component.
Data Source
AI summary
A pistol comprises a frame with a slide operable to reciprocate on the frame. A trigger movably connected to the frame to move between a forward position and rear position, and a block element selectably interfacing with the slide and movable between a released position in which the slide is enabled to reciprocate and a locked position in which the slide is prevented from reciprocation. The block element is operably engaged to the trigger to move to the locked position when the trigger is in the rear position, such that the slide does not recoil after discharge when the trigger is held to the rear position.