Lever-Action Firearm Linkage Assembly for Modular Caliber Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved customizability in lever action firearms to allow easy switching of calibers, triggers, barrels, and muzzle devices, while also providing an alternative to semi-automatic firearms that are regulated in certain areas.
Innovation Solution
A lever action firearm with a linkage assembly that pivotally connects the action lever to the bolt carrier assembly, allowing for interchangeable components and a gear assembly that mechanically drives the bolt carrier between open and closed positions, mimicking the customizability of AR-15 rifles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional lever action firearms are used, then reliability and simplicity are maintained, but customizability and ease of component interchangeability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The internal linkage system is divided into separate modular components: a bolt carrier assembly, an action lever assembly, and a linkage assembly with multiple links. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured, maintained, and interchanged while maintaining reliable mechanical connection for caliber-specific customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage assembly is designed with universal pivot connections that can accommodate different bolt carrier assemblies for various calibers. The multiple links (first link, second link, third link) serve multiple functions: connecting the action lever to the bolt carrier, enabling bolt movement, and facilitating extractor and ejector operations, thereby allowing one linkage design to support multiple firearm configurations.
2Ease of operation
If semi-automatic firearms are used, then ease of operation and productivity are improved, but regulatory restrictions and loss of manual control increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lever action firearm is designed to be manually operated by the user through the action lever, which directly controls the bolt carrier assembly through the linkage mechanism. This self-service manual operation provides users with direct control over the firing cycle, maintaining ease of operation while avoiding automatic firing mechanisms that trigger regulatory restrictions.
3Ease of repair
If modular component design is implemented, then ease of repair and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The firearm is divided into distinct modular assemblies (bolt carrier, action lever, linkage with multiple links) that can be independently removed and replaced. This segmentation enables easy repair and maintenance by allowing users to swap out specific components without disassembling the entire firearm, despite the increased number of individual parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the action lever and the bolt carrier assembly. By introducing this intermediate linkage system with pivot connections, the design enables modular component interchangeability while maintaining reliable mechanical transmission of motion, effectively mediating between the user's manual input and the bolt's movement.
Data Source
AI summary
Lever action firearms having a linkage assembly for pivotally connecting its action lever to its bolt carrier assembly and associated methods are disclosed. The lever action firearm includes a bolt carrier assembly received in an upper frame and operable to reciprocate between an open position and a closed position. The bolt carrier assembly includes a first pivot. A lower frame defines a magazine well configured to removably receive a box magazine. The lever action firearm includes an action lever movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The action lever includes second and third pivots. The action lever is pivotally connected to the lower frame at the second pivot. The lever action firearm also includes a linkage assembly is pivotally connected to the action lever at the third pivot, wherein the linkage assembly is pivotally connected to the bolt carrier assembly at the first pivot.