Modular Firearm Sensor Rig for Non-Intrusive Performance Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for measuring and improving firearm performance are limited by intrusive methods, lack of objective data collection, and inability to account for human and accessory variations, leading to errors in firing accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A modular ecosystem combining hardware and software with sensor suites that collect and analyze data from both the operator and firearm, providing objective feedback and recommendations for improvement without modifying the firearm, and allowing for the characterization of firearm components, ammunition, and operator performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional intrusive methods are used to measure firearm performance, then data collection is simpler, but shooting accuracy deteriorates due to modifications affecting operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement apparatus into separate modular components: a rigid support structure with mounting points, sensor assemblies positioned at specific locations (stock, grip, forend), and a separate data processing system. This segmentation allows non-intrusive measurement of firearm parameters without modifying the firearm itself, resolving the contradiction between measurement capability and shooting accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary rigid support structure and sensor system that indirectly measures firearm performance parameters without direct contact with critical firearm components. Sensors mounted on the support structure detect vibrations, movements, and other parameters through the interface between the firearm and support, enabling accurate measurement while maintaining firearm integrity and operational accuracy.
2Device complexity
If non-modular hardware systems are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different firearms and operators deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid support structure incorporates multiple mounting points and adjustable positioning mechanisms that can accommodate various firearm types and configurations. The sensor assemblies are designed with universal mounting capabilities, allowing the same basic system to adapt to different firearms and operator preferences without requiring complete system redesign, thus achieving versatility with controlled complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements within the rigid support structure, allowing mounting positions and sensor orientations to be dynamically adjusted for different firearm types and operator requirements. This dynamic adaptability enables a single modular system to serve multiple functions across various applications while maintaining structural integrity.
3Reliability
If objective data collection from both operator and firearm is implemented, then shooting accuracy improves through error elimination, but device complexity increases due to multiple sensor suites
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor types (accelerometers, gyroscopes, position sensors) into integrated sensor assemblies that are mounted on the rigid support structure. These merged sensor suites simultaneously capture data from both the firearm and operator, enabling comprehensive error analysis and accuracy improvement while managing complexity through integrated design rather than separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically processes and analyzes the collected data from multiple sensor suites, using onboard processing to identify errors and provide corrective feedback without requiring complex external analysis systems. This self-service capability manages data processing complexity while maintaining high shooting accuracy through automated error elimination.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for measuring, characterizing, and making recommendations for improving the performance of a shooter and one or more associated firearms. A data collection environment comprises an operator device and a server and data management module configured to receive and transmit one or more data sets over a network. A rig, which may be configured with sensors, may comprise a base assembly, a stock assembly, a grip/trigger assembly, a forend assembly a remote trigger assembly, and a safety lanyard assembly.