Modular Fire Control Group for Caliber Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current processes for converting rifles between different calibers are time-consuming and limited in their versatility, as existing conversion kits do not allow for seamless conversion between various caliber variants such as 9 mm, 5.56 mm, and .308.

Innovation Solution

A caliber modification system comprising a fire control group, fore module, and rear module that can be easily interchanged with existing rifle platforms, allowing for minimal mechanical effort to convert between different calibers by replacing the fore end, rear module, and barrel, with the fire control group serving as a unitary backbone for various configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional conversion kits are used to change rifle caliber, then the rifle can accommodate different calibers, but the conversion process becomes time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecaliber compatibilityVSAvoidconversion time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The rifle system is divided into modular components: a caliber-adaptable receiver and interchangeable forend assemblies that are pre-configured for specific calibers. This segmentation allows the shooter to quickly swap between calibers by replacing only the forend module rather than performing complex conversions involving multiple internal components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The foreend assemblies are pre-configured and pre-assembled for specific calibers before use. This preliminary preparation includes pre-installing the appropriate barrel, gas system, and magazine well configurations, so that when caliber conversion is needed, the shooter simply attaches the pre-prepared module without needing to perform time-consuming assembly steps during conversion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional conversion kits are used to change rifle caliber, then the rifle can accommodate different calibers, but the conversion process requires extensive mechanical work

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecaliber compatibilityVSAvoidconversion complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The conversion system separates the rifle into a permanent receiver portion and interchangeable foreend modules. Each foreend module is a self-contained unit designed for a specific caliber, eliminating the need for complex mechanical modifications to the main rifle body during conversion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The receiver is designed with universal attachment features that can accommodate multiple foreend module types through standardized interfaces. This multi-functionality allows a single receiver to support various calibers by simply changing the foreend module, reducing conversion complexity to a simple attachment operation.

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

3Device complexity

If a single rifle is designed for one caliber, then the structure remains simple, but the rifle cannot accommodate multiple ammunition types

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverifle structureVSAvoidcaliber flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The rifle is segmented into a simple, unchanged receiver and interchangeable foreend assemblies. This segmentation allows the main structure to remain simple while the interchangeable modules provide caliber flexibility, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rifle system transitions from a static single-caliber design to a dynamic multi-caliber configuration through interchangeable foreend modules. The ability to swap modules changes the rifle's characteristics dynamically based on ammunition type needed, while the base receiver structure remains simple and unchanged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10996011B2Caliber modification using modular fire control group
Publication Date: 2021.05.04 PALMETTO STATE ARMORY LLC
  • US10996011B2 patent drawing
  • US10996011B2 patent drawing
  • US10996011B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to an assembly for modifying a rifle to accommodate various calibers of ammunition and method for changing calibers in a rifle using same.