Pivoting Cartridge Extractor for Consistent Ejection and Bolt Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearms face issues with fixed ejectors compromising bolt head structural integrity, inconsistent ejection due to user-dependent force application, and challenges in accommodating different bolt carrier assembly configurations and trigger pin compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A cartridge extractor that pivots with the cartridge rim to ensure reliable ejection, compatible with various bolt heads and ejectors, and a bolt carrier assembly with an adjustable handle and interchangeable components, along with a trigger pin system adaptable to different receiver pin spacings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If fixed ejectors are used to eject cartridges, then ejection force is provided, but bolt head structural integrity is compromised due to material removal
Solution Approach 1:
A separate ejector component is introduced as an intermediary element that interfaces with the cartridge case independently of the bolt head structure. The ejector is retained by the bolt carrier assembly through slots and springs, allowing it to provide ejection force without requiring material removal from the bolt head, thus preserving bolt head structural integrity while maintaining ejection functionality
2Reliability
If fixed ejectors are used, then ejection capability is provided, but ejection consistency deteriorates due to user-dependent force application
Solution Approach 1:
The ejector system is designed to be self-actuating through spring-loaded plunger mechanisms that automatically engage with the cartridge case. The spring-loaded design provides consistent ejection force without requiring additional user input beyond the normal bolt cycling motion, eliminating dependency on user force application variability and ensuring reliable ejection consistency
3Ease of manufacture
If bolt carrier assemblies use single-material construction, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bolt carrier assembly is segmented into multiple components including the bolt carrier, bolt head, extractor, and ejector as separate parts that can be manufactured from different materials optimized for their specific functions. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and assembled, providing adaptability to different configurations while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through specialized production of each component
4Reliability
If trigger pins have press fit in receiver, then pin retention is achieved, but compatibility with different receiver pin spacings is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger pin system incorporates adjustable or interchangeable pin components that can be configured to match different receiver pin spacings. The pins can be positioned or replaced to accommodate varying receiver configurations while maintaining secure retention through the press fit mechanism, providing both reliability and adaptability across different firearm platforms
Data Source
AI summary
A cartridge extractor for positioning about a portion of a firearm bolt includes an outer curved surface that defines an outer perimeter of the annular body, an inner curved surface that defines an inner perimeter of the annular body, a first axial face extending between the outer curved surface and the inner curved surface, and a second axial face extending between the outer curved surface and the inner curved surface and spaced apart from the first face in an axial direction. An extractor arm extends axially from the first axial face and has an engager end distal from the annular body and a cartridge engager flange at the engager end of the extractor arm. Also disclosed are a pin assembly for securing a trigger to a receiver, an adjustable bolt handle which when locked can transfer very high loads, and a firearm.