Modular Firearm Maintenance Tool Kit with Interchangeable Heads

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multifunction tool kits for firearm maintenance are limited in functionality and require multiple single-function tools, occupying significant space and weight, which is undesirable for military and civilian applications.

Innovation Solution

A multifunction tool kit with a main tool body and interchangeable components such as a thread protector, alignment gauge, throat erosion gauge, spacer, muzzle wear gauge, and handle, made from durable materials like chromoly steel and brass, allowing for various configurations to perform multiple firearm maintenance functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple single-function tools are used to maintain M14/M1A and M1 Garand-based weapon platforms, then all required maintenance functions can be performed, but the tools occupy considerable space and weight

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemaintenance function coverageVSAvoidtool kit weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal tool kit system where a common handle or frame serves as a platform for multiple interchangeable tool components. Each component can be attached to perform different maintenance functions on M14/M1A and M1 Garand-based weapons, allowing one base unit to replace multiple single-function tools and reduce overall weight and space requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The tool kit is divided into modular components including a common handle and multiple interchangeable tool heads or attachments. This segmentation allows users to carry only the specific tool components needed for particular maintenance tasks rather than transporting entire single-function tools, thereby reducing weight while maintaining full functional capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple single-function tools are used to maintain M14/M1A and M1 Garand-based weapon platforms, then all required maintenance functions can be performed, but the tools occupy considerable space

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemaintenance function coverageVSAvoidtool kit volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal tool kit system where a common handle or frame serves as a platform for multiple interchangeable tool components. Each component can be attached to perform different maintenance functions on M14/M1A and M1 Garand-based weapons, allowing one base unit to replace multiple single-function tools and reduce overall weight and space requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The modular tool components are designed to attach to and store on the common handle in a nested configuration. When not in use, the interchangeable tool heads can be mounted on or stored within the handle structure, creating a compact integrated unit that minimizes the volume occupied by the complete tool kit while maintaining access to all maintenance functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If prior art multi tools with multiple tools pivotally connected to a handle are used, then tools can be kept together conveniently, but many single function tools are still required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool organization convenienceVSAvoidnumber of tool components

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal tool kit system where a common handle or frame serves as a platform for multiple interchangeable tool components. Each component can be attached to perform different maintenance functions on M14/M1A and M1 Garand-based weapons, allowing one base unit to replace multiple single-function tools and reduce overall weight and space requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The tool kit employs dynamic attachment and detachment mechanisms that allow tool components to be quickly connected to and removed from the common handle. This dynamic system enables users to configure the tool kit for specific maintenance tasks by attaching only the necessary components, reducing the number of tools that need to be carried and organized at any given time while maintaining full functionality when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8091266B2Multifunction tool kit for firearm maintenance

Publication Date: 2012.01.10 BATTLEARMS IP LLC

AI summary

A multifunction tool kit for firearm maintenance has a main tool body having one or more facilities for connection of various tool components. The present invention may include a first tool component having an attachment facility adapted to removably connect to one of the facilities for connection of the main tool body. At least one of the opposing ends of the first tool component may terminate in a feature adapted to fit one or more components on a firearm. A feature may be exposed and extend outwards from the opposing sides of the main tool body when the first tool component is connected to the main tool body. The invention may also include additional tool components, such as a thread protector, an alignment gauge having a grease pot with grease cap, a throat erosion gauge, a spacer with pin punch, a stock liner tool, a muzzle wear gauge, and a handle.