Muzzle Accessory Alignment Locking for Tool-Free Barrel Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching muzzle accessories to firearm barrels are unsatisfactory as they require specialized tools, are time-consuming, and prone to misalignment due to reliance on frictional forces, leading to potential damage and inefficiency in frequent installations and removals.
Innovation Solution
A muzzle accessory system featuring an alignment key and locking mechanism, including an alignment groove and transverse groove, allows for quick and tool-less alignment and attachment to the firearm barrel, using an O-ring and detent spring for secure fixation without specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threaded attachment methods with shims and set screws are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional components: an alignment key integrated into the barrel, a corresponding alignment groove in the muzzle accessory, and a through-channel with O-ring seal. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling quick assembly without complex multi-step procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for shims, crush washers, and set screws from the attachment process. By removing these intermediate components and relying instead on the direct engagement of the alignment key with the alignment groove and the O-ring seal, the system achieves secure attachment without the time-consuming steps required for traditional methods.
2Reliability
If frictional forces are used for alignment, then attachment is maintained, but misalignment and rotation occur during repeated use
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment key is designed with an asymmetric geometry that fits into a corresponding asymmetric alignment groove. This asymmetric pairing creates a positive mechanical fit that prevents rotation and misalignment, eliminating the reliance on frictional forces that cause instability during repeated use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the friction-based alignment mechanism with a positive mechanical engagement system. The alignment key and alignment groove create a deterministic mechanical interlock that maintains precise alignment without relying on friction, thereby preventing misalignment and rotation even during repeated installations and removals.
3Reliability
If high torque is applied during installation, then secure attachment is achieved, but damage to barrel threads and set screws occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the need for high-torque fastening operations by eliminating set screws and crush washers from the attachment system. The secure attachment is achieved through the O-ring seal and the engagement of the alignment key with the alignment groove, which require minimal installation force and prevent damage to barrel threads.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the attachment mechanism from a high-torque fastening approach to a low-force engagement approach. By using the O-ring seal for securing and the alignment key-groove interface for positioning, the system achieves reliable attachment without applying excessive torque that would damage barrel threads or set screws.
4Manufacturing precision
If specialized tools and bracing equipment are required, then precise alignment is achieved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment key integrated into the barrel and the corresponding alignment groove in the muzzle accessory create a self-aligning system. The geometry of these features guides the muzzle accessory into proper alignment during installation without requiring external alignment tools or bracing equipment, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment key and alignment groove are designed to work together as a matched pair, creating a self-contained alignment system. This equipotential design ensures that proper alignment is achieved automatically through the interaction of the two components, eliminating the need for specialized tools and complex bracing setups.
Data Source
AI summary
An accessorized firearm can include a firearm including a barrel having a main firing tube, the barrel provided with an alignment key; and a muzzle accessory including an accessory body having a through-channel and a surface provided with an alignment groove, the through-channel receiving the barrel of the firearm, the alignment groove receiving the alignment key, the alignment key rotationally fixing the muzzle accessory relative to the barrel.