Pneumatic Simulator Magazine Valve System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing open bolt automatic firearm simulators require large amounts of compressed gas due to continuous cycling, which is inefficient and costly, and lack a mechanism to simulate ammo storage and feed.
Innovation Solution
A pneumatic simulator apparatus using a pressurized fluid, such as compressed air or CO2, with a self-contained magazine and valve system that mimics the cycling motion and recoil of an actual firearm, allowing for a high cyclic rate without live ammunition and enabling the simulation of ammo storage and feed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If compressed gas is supplied from an external canister/pressure vessel with a tethered gas line, then the firearm simulator can cycle continuously at high rate (700 rounds per minute), but the system becomes complex and costly with large gas supply requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the compressed gas reservoir with the magazine housing into a single integrated unit. The magazine body serves dual purposes: storing simulated ammunition and containing the compressed gas supply. This eliminates the need for separate external gas canisters and tethered gas lines, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to cycle at high rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The magazine assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it stores simulated rounds, contains the compressed gas reservoir, and provides the gas supply pathway to the actuator. This multi-functional design eliminates redundant components and simplifies the overall system architecture while sustaining high cyclic operation.
2Productivity
If compressed gas is supplied from an external canister/pressure vessel with a tethered gas line, then the firearm simulator can cycle continuously at high rate, but the cost increases due to large gas supply requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the gas reservoir into the magazine housing, the patent eliminates the need for separate external gas canisters and tethered gas lines. This consolidation reduces the total component count and material requirements, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining the capability to cycle at 700 rounds per minute.
Solution Approach 2:
The magazine design replicates the appearance and function of an actual firearm magazine, providing a familiar interface for users while internally housing the compressed gas supply. This allows the system to achieve high cyclic rates without requiring expensive external gas infrastructure.
3Device complexity
If the simulator uses a self-contained magazine with pressurized fluid, then the system complexity and cost are reduced, but the ability to simulate continuous high-rate fire may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the compressed gas reservoir within the magazine housing creates a compact, self-contained system that delivers sufficient gas pressure and flow to sustain 700 rounds per minute cyclic operation. The direct gas supply pathway from the reservoir to the actuator ensures adequate pressure without requiring complex external gas delivery systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a metering valve that dynamically regulates gas flow to the actuator based on the cycling rate requirements. This allows the self-contained magazine to adapt gas delivery to match the demand of high-rate fire, maintaining 700 rounds per minute capability while using a compact integrated design.
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 apparatus effectively converts an open bolt automatic firearm into a training simulator, providing a realistic firing experience with reduced costs and complexity, allowing for 700 rounds per minute simulation without altering the trigger feel, and includes a shot counter and laser impact marking.
Implementation Method 1
The compressed gas is used to provide energy to operate the weapon simulator by actuating valve means in the simulated barrel unit
Implementation Method 2
A laser beam pulse means is responsive to the simulated weapon firing whereby the laser beam pulse means emits a laser beam onto a target
Data Source
AI summary
Pneumatic simulator for an open bolt firearm including an actuator group having a stationary piston and a moving bolt. With each simulated firing cycle producing a firing event, the spring actuates moving bolt toward stationary piston such that the activator unseats a valve located in the stationary piston. Unseating the valve allows regulated compressed gas to exit a high pressure reservoir located in the firearm magazine well which drives the moving bolt back against the spring to complete a firing cycle. Subsequent firing cycles will continue automatically as long as the shooter keeps the trigger depressed. A tension rod, and laser also may comprise the simulator assembly. A nut may be used to secure the tension rod and laser. A laser cable may be used to electrically connect laser to a firing event signal generator. The firing event signal generator may include a magnet located in the moving bolt and a pickup positioned in the stationary piston. With each firing event, the magnet is moved adjacent the pickup which evidences a firing event which generates a signal from the pickup to the laser over the laser cable. The laser then generates a pulse of light which strikes a target to mark a point of impact resulting from the firing event.