Modular Firearm Buffer With Cross Pin Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearm buffers are not modular, making it difficult for manufacturers and users to adjust the weight and performance characteristics of firearms without inventorying multiple buffers, and they are not easily disassembled or reassembled in the field without special tools.
Innovation Solution
A modular firearm buffer system with a buffer casing, buffer weights, and a cross pin locking mechanism that allows for easy disassembly and reconfiguration without specialized tools, enabling users to adjust the weight and performance characteristics of the firearm by rearranging buffer weights and cushions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If firearm buffers are made non-modular with fixed weights, then manufacturing and inventory management are simplified, but users cannot adjust performance characteristics for different firearm configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer weight is divided into multiple separate weight elements that can be independently selected and combined. The buffer assembly includes a buffer, multiple buffer weights, and a buffer plug that can be configured with different combinations of weights to match different firearm barrel lengths and gas port configurations, allowing customization without increasing overall assembly complexity
Solution Approach 2:
A single universal buffer assembly design with standardized buffer, buffer weights, and buffer plug components can serve multiple firearm configurations (different barrel lengths, gas port locations). This multi-functional design allows the same basic assembly to be adapted for various applications by simply changing the weight configuration, eliminating the need for multiple specialized buffer designs
2Ease of operation
If firearm buffers are designed as fixed assemblies, then manufacturing precision is easier to maintain, but field disassembly and reconfiguration require special tools and are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer weights are nested within the buffer assembly, with each weight element fitting inside the buffer or buffer plug. The buffer plug contains a cavity that receives the buffer weights, and the cross pin passes through aligned openings in the buffer plug and weight elements to secure them. This nested configuration allows easy access to weights through the buffer plug opening for field reconfiguration while maintaining secure retention during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The cross pin serves as an intermediary component that connects the buffer plug to the buffer weights without requiring permanent bonding or complex fastening mechanisms. The cross pin can be easily inserted and removed through the buffer plug opening, allowing field disassembly and reconfiguration while providing sufficient retention strength to secure the weights during firearm operation
3Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturers inventory multiple buffer types for different firearm configurations, then users can find the right buffer for their needs, but inventory costs and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing and inventorying multiple complete buffer assemblies for different firearm configurations, the solution segments the buffer into a universal buffer, universal buffer plug, and multiple interchangeable weight elements. Manufacturers only need to inventory the standard buffer and plug designs plus a range of weight elements (e.g., 0.5 oz, 1 oz, 1.5 oz increments), dramatically reducing the number of unique SKUs while maintaining compatibility with various barrel lengths and gas port configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer weights provide localized adjustment of mass distribution within the buffer assembly. By varying only the weight elements rather than redesigning the entire buffer, manufacturers can optimize performance for different firearm configurations using a standardized buffer and plug design. This allows customization of the local property (weight) without changing the overall structure, reducing inventory requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A firearm buffer includes a buffer casing having a casing chamber with open and closed ends, and buffer weight within the casing chamber. A buffer plug is received in the open end of the buffer casing. A cross pin extends through at least a portion of the buffer plug retaining the buffer plug on the buffer casing. A locking pin is longitudinally displaceable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the locking pin is engaged with the cross pin and retains the cross pin in position with respect to the buffer plug. In the second position, the locking pin is disengaged from the cross pin such that the cross pin is removable from engagement with the buffer plug thereby permitting disassembly of the firearm buffer. A method of assembling a firearm buffer is also included.