Modular Handgun Grip Assembly with Interchangeable Backstraps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current handguns lack a modular grip system that can be easily interchanged with varying lengths and thicknesses to accommodate different hand sizes and magazine capacities, leading to suboptimal fit and functionality, especially in concealed carry and competition-oriented pistols.

Innovation Solution

A modular handgun grip assembly featuring a hollow grip body with interchangeable front and rear straps and extensions, utilizing dovetail coupling interfaces and fasteners to secure additional grip sections, allowing for customizable length and shape to fit various hand sizes and magazine types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed grip design is used in handguns, then the manufacturing process is simple and cost-effective, but the grip cannot accommodate different hand sizes and magazine capacities

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrip size accommodationVSAvoidgrip structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The grip is divided into multiple interchangeable backstrap sections of varying lengths and thicknesses that can be attached to the grip frame. This segmentation allows users to select and swap backstraps based on their hand size and magazine capacity requirements, transforming a fixed grip into an adaptable modular system without requiring complete grip redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The grip frame is designed with universal attachment features that can accommodate multiple types of backstraps serving different functions - some optimized for concealed carry, others for competition, and others for duty applications. This multi-functionality allows a single grip frame to serve multiple purposes across different shooting scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If larger grips are used to accommodate bigger hands and increase magazine capacity, then functionality is improved, but concealability is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehand size accommodationVSAvoidgrip volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The backstrap is segmented into multiple sections of different volumes - smaller, thinner sections for concealed carry applications and larger, thicker sections for competition or duty use. Users can attach the appropriate section based on whether concealability or hand comfort/magazine capacity is the priority, allowing dynamic adjustment of grip volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The grip system transitions from a static, fixed design to a dynamic, reconfigurable system where the backstrap can be changed between uses. This allows the grip volume to be optimized for each specific situation - compact for concealed carry, larger for competition - rather than being constrained by a single fixed size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If interchangeable grip components are introduced to accommodate different hand sizes, then adaptability is improved, but assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrip customizationVSAvoidgrip assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The grip is segmented into modular components (frame, backstrap sections, fasteners) that can be manufactured separately using standardized processes and then assembled. This segmentation enables each component to be optimized for its specific manufacturing requirements while simplifying the overall assembly process through modular construction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Universal attachment features and fasteners are designed into the grip frame that work with all backstrap sections. This universality simplifies manufacturing by using common components across different grip configurations and reduces assembly complexity through standardized interfaces that require minimal alignment or adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11578935B2Modular handgun grip assembly
Publication Date: 2023.02.14 BLACKHAWK MFG GRP INC
  • US11578935B2 patent drawing
  • US11578935B2 patent drawing
  • US11578935B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular firearm grip assembly has a frame defined by a front grip strap and a rear grip strap. The front grip strap defines a front lateral attachment point and rear lateral attachment point, and the rear grip strap has a first attachment coupling interface. A grip extension defined by a front extension strap and a rear extension strap is coupled to the frame at the respective one of the front lateral attachment point and the rear lateral attachment point thereof. The grip extension includes a second attachment coupling interface engaged to the first attachment coupling interface of the frame.