Modular Firearm Forend Adapter with Universal Accessory Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearm forends are often model-specific, lack ambidexterity, and have difficult access to internal components for maintenance and repair.
Innovation Solution
Modular, accessory-mounting forends with an adapter module that can be used on various firearm models, featuring a universal accessory module with ambidextrous switch placement and easy disassembly for component replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a forend is configured for a specific model of firearm, then it provides optimized functionality for that model, but it cannot be used on different models of firearms
Solution Approach 1:
The forend is divided into two separable modules: a model-specific adapter module that interfaces with the firearm, and a universal accessory module that contains the accessory and mounting interface. This segmentation allows the adapter module to be customized for different firearm models while the accessory module remains consistent, enabling compatibility across multiple models without redesigning the entire forend.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory module is designed with a universal mounting interface that can be used across different firearm models. The adapter module serves multiple functions: providing model-specific interface compatibility, structural support, and serving as a mounting base for the universal accessory module, thereby achieving multi-functionality that resolves the contradiction between specificity and universality.
2Ease of operation
If switches are placed on one side of the forend, then they are easily accessible for right-handed shooters, but they are difficult to reach for left-handed shooters
Solution Approach 1:
The forend incorporates asymmetric switch placement with corresponding asymmetric mounting structures. The adapter module includes asymmetric features that allow the accessory module to be mounted in mirrored orientations, enabling switches to be positioned on either the right or left side depending on the user's hand preference, thus resolving the contradiction between optimized accessibility and universal compatibility.
3Strength
If the forend is constructed as a single monolithic piece, then it provides structural strength, but access to internal components for maintenance and repair is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The forend is segmented into the adapter module and accessory module that can be separated from each other. This segmentation maintains structural strength when assembled while enabling easy access to internal components by simply detaching the accessory module, eliminating the need to disassemble a monolithic structure for maintenance or repair.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a complete forend is purchased for each firearm model, then each provides optimized functionality, but the cost and complexity of managing multiple forends increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented such that only the adapter module needs to be changed when switching between different firearm models, while the accessory module remains universal and reusable. This reduces the management complexity from handling multiple complete forends to managing only multiple small adapter modules, significantly simplifying the system while maintaining full compatibility across models.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
A forend (100) for a firearm (10) includes an adapter module (124) configured to mount below a barrel (20) and in front of a receiver (18) of a specific model of a firearm, such as a shotgun, and a universal firearm accessory module (104) coupled to one or more surfaces of the adapter module. The adapter module can include an upper surface (106) that substantially conforms to a lower surface of the barrel, a longitudinal bore (108) configured to receive a tubular magazine (22) of the firearm concentrically therein, and lower and external side surfaces defining a plug (110). The accessory module can include a firearm accessory and an upper and internal side surfaces defining a socket (116) configured to receive the plug of the adapter module in a complementary plug-in engagement. The accessory can be a source of a light (118,120) useful for illuminating a target or aiming the firearm.