Modular Handgun With Metal Trigger Frame for Dimensional Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handgun designs using polymer materials for structural components face issues with dimensional changes and wear due to material fatigue and particulate debris accumulation, leading to potential failure and reduced accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A modular handgun system with a metallic universal trigger frame and polymer grip frame, featuring integrated slide rails, a barrel locking block, and recessed surfaces for lubrication, allowing tool-less assembly and disassembly, and accommodating various grip lengths and barrel lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If polymer materials are used for structural components to reduce weight, then weight is reduced, but dimensional stability deteriorates due to flexing and fatigue at different rates compared to metal components
Solution Approach 1:
The handgun is divided into modular components (polymer grip frame, metal trigger frame, slide/barrel assembly) that can be separately manufactured and assembled. This allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - polymer for weight reduction in the grip frame, metal for dimensional stability in the trigger frame and action components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite construction combining polymer and metal materials in a single handgun system. The polymer grip frame is combined with metal trigger frame and action components, creating a hybrid structure that leverages the weight advantages of polymer and the dimensional stability advantages of metal.
2Manufacturing precision
If flat surfaces slide over each other with tight clearance for precision, then manufacturing precision is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to accumulation of metal filings and particulate debris causing wear and seizing
Solution Approach 1:
A lubricant is introduced as an intermediary substance between the sliding surfaces of the trigger frame and grip frame. This lubricant film prevents direct metal-to-metal contact, reduces accumulation of particulate debris, and maintains smooth operation of the sliding interfaces over extended use.
Solution Approach 2:
The lubricant is applied to create a thin film that can trap and contain particulate debris within the lubricant layer rather than allowing particles to accumulate directly between sliding surfaces. This porous lubricant film maintains clearance precision while preventing wear and seizing.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances structural rigidity, maintains accurate dimensional relationships, reduces wear, and improves assembly ease while maintaining accuracy and adaptability to different user preferences.
Implementation Method 1
Oil-type lubricants can be effective on these sliding surfaces for a limited time, or until metal filings or other particulate debris accumulates in the tight clearance.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular handgun system comprises an elongated universal trigger frame having a pair of slide rails and an accessory rail. The trigger frame is adapted to have a trigger assembly mounted thereto. The system further comprises a grip frame having an elongated channel and a hand grip extending downwardly from the elongated channel. The trigger frame is removably mounted in the elongated channel of the grip frame. The accessory rail of the trigger frame is positioned forward of a forward end of the elongated channel of the grip frame so as to be exposed. The system further comprises a slide and barrel assembly slidably mounted on the slide rails of the trigger frame.