Modular Firearm Assembly with Manual Latch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearms are difficult to quickly and accurately assemble and disassemble, especially in field conditions with poor light, and lack efficient storage and transportation solutions that prevent loss of components.
Innovation Solution
A modular firearm design with sub-assemblies that can be easily assembled and disassembled using simple tools, featuring a manually operable latch mechanism and a compartmented storage bag for organized transportation and protection of components, ensuring precise assembly and disassembly without component loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a modular firearm design with sub-assemblies is used, then ease of assembly and disassembly is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The firearm is divided into multiple sub-assemblies (barrel module, handguard module, upper receiver module, lower receiver module) that can be independently manufactured, stored, and assembled. This segmentation enables rapid field assembly while maintaining manufacturing precision through standardized interfaces and locating features on each module.
2Ease of operation
If manually operable latch mechanism is used for securing sub-assemblies, then ease of operation in field conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manually operable latch mechanism allows the user to secure and release sub-assemblies without requiring external tools or assistance. The latch members engage with locating features on the modules themselves, making the system self-contained and suitable for field conditions while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Reliability
If compartmented storage bag is used for transporting sub-assemblies, then protection and organization of components is improved, but loss of time for assembly may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The compartmented storage bag is designed with predetermined compartments that hold specific sub-assemblies in organized fashion during transport. This preliminary organization ensures that when assembly is needed in the field, components are readily accessible and properly positioned, reducing assembly time while maintaining protection during transport.
4Adaptability or versatility
If sub-assemblies are designed for field assembly, then adaptability to field conditions is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each sub-assembly module incorporates specific locating features, mounting flanges, and interface elements designed for precise alignment and secure connection. These localized precision features on each module ensure that when assembled in field conditions, the overall firearm achieves the required manufacturing precision and accuracy (½ to 1 MOA) without requiring high-precision assembly tools or facilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A firearm having modular components that can be assembled under field conditions, by using simple tools. Upper and lower receivers are assembled by pins and a barrel and gas tube are secured to the upper receiver by a barrel nut. Mounting flanges of the upper receiver and a handguard are secured in reliable assembly by a manually actuated clamp mechanism having a clamping condition releasably securing the handguard to the upper receiver and having a releasing condition permitting separation of the handguard from the upper receiver. A pocketed soft protective container receives and protects the modular firearm components until firearm assembly takes place.