Modular Rifle Rail System with Loading Port Aperture

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rail systems for rifles are either complex and costly, or simple and limiting in customization options, often hindering other rifle features.

Innovation Solution

A rail system with a forward and rearward rail configuration, including an aperture aligned with the loading port, and a side member connecting the rails, allowing for customizable accessories and integration with the rear sight receptacle without compromising rifle operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a complex rail system with many parts is used, then customization options and accessory attachment capability are improved, but manufacturing cost and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustomization optionsVSAvoidnumber of parts

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rail system is divided into multiple modular rail segments (first rail, second rail, third rail) that can be selectively assembled. Each rail portion can be independently attached or removed, allowing customization without requiring a complete complex rail system. This segmentation enables users to configure the rail system according to specific needs while reducing overall part count and manufacturing cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rail system employs universal attachment mechanisms that can accommodate various accessories and configurations using the same basic rail structure. The standardized attachment points and interfaces allow different accessories to be mounted on the same rail segments, providing versatility without increasing system complexity or requiring multiple specialized components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If a simple rail system is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but customization options are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidcustomization options

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The rail system is divided into multiple modular rail segments (first rail, second rail, third rail) that can be selectively assembled. Each rail portion can be independently attached or removed, allowing customization without requiring a complete complex rail system. This segmentation enables users to configure the rail system according to specific needs while reducing overall part count and manufacturing cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rail system incorporates selectively removable and attachable rail portions that can be dynamically configured based on user needs. The attachment mechanisms allow for easy assembly and disassembly of rail segments and accessories, providing adaptability without requiring complex permanent installations. This dynamic configuration capability enables customization while maintaining a relatively simple base structure for cost-effective manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If a rail system with many parts is used, then accessory attachment capability is improved, but rifle operation may be hindered

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessory attachment capabilityVSAvoidrifle operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The rail system is divided into multiple modular rail segments (first rail, second rail, third rail) that can be selectively assembled. Each rail portion can be independently attached or removed, allowing customization without requiring a complete complex rail system. This segmentation enables users to configure the rail system according to specific needs while reducing overall part count and manufacturing cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rail system applies attachment features and structures only where needed for accessory mounting, rather than uniformly across the entire rifle. The selective placement of rail segments and attachment points ensures that rifle operation areas remain unobstructed while providing adequate accessory attachment capability at critical locations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9857147B2Rail system for a rifle

Publication Date: 2018.01.02 DRUMMOND DAVID

AI summary

There is accordingly provided a rail system selectively connectable to a rifle. The rifle has a loading port for receiving bullets therein. The system includes a first rail positioned forward of the loading port. The system includes a second rail extending substantially parallel to the first rail and positioned rearward of the loading port. The system includes an aperture interposed between the first and second rails. The aperture is positioned to align with the loading port of the rifle. The system includes an elongate side member connecting the rails together.