Perpendicular Buffer Layout for Folding-Stock Firearms
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional buffer systems for firearms, particularly those with folding stocks, occupy significant space and can protrude from the firearm, lengthen the weapon, or require the stock to be in an extended position for firing, thereby compromising the folding functionality.
Innovation Solution
A buffer system with a buffer and actuator that transitions between configurations along a displacement direction different from the recoil direction, allowing for a compact design that does not interfere with folding stocks and enables firing with the stock in a folded position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If an in-line buffer system is used, then recoil dampening is achieved, but the buffer occupies large space and may protrude from the firearm
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer system transitions from a linear in-line arrangement to a perpendicular orientation where the buffer axis is orthogonal to the recoil direction. This dimensional change allows the buffer to absorb recoil forces while occupying minimal space within the receiver, eliminating protrusion issues and enabling compact firearm design.
2Force
If an in-line buffer system is used with a folding stock, then recoil dampening is achieved, but the folding functionality is compromised or the stock must be extended
Solution Approach 1:
By orienting the buffer perpendicular to the recoil direction rather than in-line with it, the buffer system no longer interferes with the stock's folding mechanism. This spatial reconfiguration allows the buffer to function independently of the stock position, enabling the firearm to be fired with the stock in either folded or extended position.
3Force
If an in-line buffer system is used, then recoil dampening is achieved, but the firearm length is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer system is reoriented perpendicular to the recoil axis, transforming it from a lengthening component to a compact side-mounted mechanism. This dimensional change allows the buffer to provide effective recoil dampening while maintaining a compact firearm profile and avoiding excessive length increase.
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 compact buffer system that maintains folding functionality and allows for firing with the stock folded, reducing space constraints and improving design flexibility in firearms.
Implementation Method 1
The buffer may be configured to be compressed in a compression direction from an extended configuration to a compressed configuration
Implementation Method 2
a buffer system configured to dampen, dissipate, or otherwise modify a rearward impulse generated by rearward movement of the operating group
Data Source
AI summary
A firearm comprising an operating group and a buffer system. The operating group may include a recoiling structure configured to translate in a recoil direction from a forward position to a rearward position. The buffer system may include a buffer and an actuator. The buffer may be configured to be compressed in a compression direction from an extended configuration to a compressed configuration. The compression direction may be different from the recoil direction. The actuator may be configured to selectively engage the recoiling structure and the buffer and to cause the buffer to be compressed from the extended configuration to the compressed configuration when the recoiling structure translates from the forward position to the rearward position.