Offset-Centerline Simulator Barrel for Larger Gas Reservoirs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearm simulators for 1911 style handguns are limited by constraints that prevent the use of larger gas reservoirs, as the striker, piston, and tubular portion must be on the same centerline as the firing pin, restricting the diameter and number of cycles per charge.
Innovation Solution
A barrel apparatus with a tubular compressed gas reservoir and an offset striker design, allowing for a larger gas reservoir volume by offsetting the striker's longitudinal axis from the tubular reservoir's centerline, enabling a larger diameter and increased cycle count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the striker, piston, and tubular portion are positioned on the same centerline as the firing pin, then the firearm simulator can be constructed with proper alignment, but the gas reservoir volume is limited and cannot accommodate larger diameter barrels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by deliberately offsetting the striker and piston assembly from the centerline of the tubular gas reservoir. This asymmetric positioning allows the gas reservoir to be enlarged in diameter without interfering with the firing pin's path, thereby resolving the contradiction between maximizing gas reservoir volume and maintaining proper alignment with the firing pin.
2Productivity
If a larger diameter barrel is used to increase gas reservoir capacity, then the number of cycles per charge increases, but the barrel cannot fit within the existing firearm geometry constraints
Solution Approach 1:
By positioning the tubular gas reservoir asymmetrically with its centerline offset from the firearm's main centerline, the patent enables the barrel diameter to be increased to accommodate larger gas reservoir capacity while still fitting within the available space constraints of the firearm geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the offset centerline configuration to effectively use three-dimensional space more efficiently. By moving the gas reservoir to an offset position, the design exploits available volume in directions other than the primary longitudinal axis, thereby increasing gas storage capacity without exceeding the firearm's external dimensions.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the gas reservoir is maximized in size, then the number of shots per charge increases, but the striker cannot be properly positioned to actuate the metering valve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the positioning challenge by creating an asymmetric arrangement where the striker is offset from the gas reservoir centerline. This asymmetric positioning allows the striker to reach and actuate the metering valve located on the offset tubular portion, while simultaneously maximizing the gas reservoir volume for increased shots per charge.
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 offset design allows for a larger gas reservoir volume, increasing the number of shots per charge and improving recoil simulation consistency, while accommodating various barrel types, including bull barrels.
Implementation Method 1
a substantially tubular and sealingly contained compressed gas reservoir having a longitudinal centerline
Implementation Method 2
a metering valve in the compressed gas reservoir adapted for actuation by the striker to release an amount of gas sufficient to simulate firing of the firearm
Data Source
AI summary
A barrel apparatus for non-permanent conversion of a firearm into a compressed gas powered firearm simulator for simulated shooting. The conversion barrel including a substantially tubular and sealingly contained compressed gas reservoir having a longitudinal centerline; a fill port for recharging the compressed gas reservoir; a striker having a longitudinal axis and adapted for longitudinal movement; a metering valve in the compressed gas reservoir actuated by the longitudinal movement of said striker. The longitudinal axis of the striker may be offset from the longitudinal centerline of the tubular compressed gas reservoir.