Non-contact electromagnetic trigger sensor for firearm reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional rifle trigger mechanisms are often unreliable and difficult to customize, especially when used with electro-optical accessories, leading to inconsistent ergonomics and precision issues during shooting.
Innovation Solution
A robust and adjustable trigger assembly with a non-contact trigger motion sensor that senses first and second stage movements and safety lever actuation, allowing for customizable trigger settings and integration with user-actuable sensors without physical contact, enhancing ergonomics and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional contact-based trigger sensors are used, then trigger motion can be detected, but the sensor interferes with trigger assembly operation and reduces reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based trigger sensors with a non-contact electromagnetic sensor system. The electromagnetic sensor detects trigger motion through electromagnetic field interaction without physical contact, eliminating the interference and reliability issues associated with mechanical contact sensors while maintaining accurate trigger stage detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electromagnetic field as an intermediary between the sensor and trigger assembly. The electromagnetic sensor detects trigger motion by measuring changes in electromagnetic field properties (such as inductance or capacitance) caused by the movement of conductive trigger components, allowing detection without direct sensor contact with the trigger mechanism.
2Manufacturing precision
If trigger assembly is made robust and adjustable, then customization and precision are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the trigger assembly into distinct functional stages (first stage and second stage) with independent adjustment mechanisms. Each stage can be independently tuned for specific weight and travel characteristics, allowing precise customization without requiring complete redesign of the entire trigger system. The non-contact sensor system also segments the detection function from the mechanical trigger components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements adjustable and adaptable trigger characteristics through dynamic configuration options. Users can modify trigger stage weights, travel distances, and sensitivity settings to match their shooting preferences and conditions. The electromagnetic sensor system dynamically adapts to different trigger configurations without requiring physical reconfiguration of the sensor itself.
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
The solution provides a reliable and customizable trigger system that enhances shooting precision by allowing users to tune the trigger for their needs while maintaining compatibility with electro-optical accessories, improving the overall rifle system's reliability and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a non-contacting electromagnetic sensor spaced from every component of the trigger assembly by a selected distance when the receiver is installed in the stock
Data Source
AI summary
A rifle or portable firearm assembly (e.g., 310) configured to work with user-actuable sensors and systems (e.g., S1-S4), comprises a removable receiver assembly 312 attached to and responsive to a trigger assembly 50 which are removably received in a stock or chassis 316 having a middle section 324 with a trigger motion sensing sidewall segment with at least one trigger motion sensor (e.g., 340L, 340R) which does not physically contact or attach to the trigger assembly and is instead spaced from every component of the trigger assembly when the receiver is installed in said stock or chassis. The trigger motion sensor is configured to sense, from a selected standoff distance, without contacting or interfering the trigger assembly in any way, at least one of (a) the trigger's first stage movement or (b) actuation of a safety lever, and generate a “trigger motion sensed” signal in response thereto.