Quick-Release Barrel Coupling for AR-15 Rifles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current MILSPEC rifles, such as AR-15, AR Pistols, M4, and M16, cannot be quickly disassembled and reassembled without specialized tools and a workbench, and existing tool-less systems are not effective, robust, or user-friendly, and do not allow for the use of standard accessories.
Innovation Solution
A quick-take down system featuring an upper receiver coupling with rotationally offset gas tube tunnels and a sliding lock collar that can be easily translated between locked and unlocked positions, allowing for the secure attachment and detachment of the rifle barrel from the upper receiver without specialized tools, while maintaining compatibility with standard accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional MILSPEC rifle assembly methods are used, then the barrel can be securely attached to the upper receiver, but the disassembly and reassembly process requires specialized tools and a workbench, making it time-consuming and impractical for in-field use
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses a spring-loaded ball bearing that automatically engages with the upper receiver's locking surface when the barrel is inserted, and automatically disengages when the barrel is pulled outward. The user simply needs to pull the barrel to disconnect it, and the system self-locks upon insertion without requiring any additional tools or actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional multi-component mechanical locking system (requiring tools and workbench) with a simplified system using a spring-loaded ball bearing and corresponding locking surface. This substitution eliminates the need for specialized tools and complex assembly procedures while maintaining secure attachment.
2Ease of operation
If tool-less disassembly systems are implemented, then ease of operation improves, but the systems are not effective, robust, or compatible with standard accessories
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a spherical ball bearing as the locking element that fits into a corresponding spherical or curved locking surface on the upper receiver. This spherical interface provides robust mechanical interlocking, resists disengagement under recoil and operational forces, and maintains reliable connection while allowing smooth insertion and removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is pre-loaded to automatically push the ball bearing into the locking surface when the barrel is inserted, ensuring positive engagement before the user completes the assembly. This preliminary locking action guarantees reliable attachment without requiring user intervention or tool assistance.
3Productivity
If a quick-release mechanism is used, then disassembly speed increases, but the complexity of the device increases due to additional locking components
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the spring-loaded ball bearing in the barrel assembly and the corresponding locking surface in the upper receiver. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall system simple and easy to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential locking function from the complex traditional system and implements it using a single ball bearing and spring mechanism. By taking out only the necessary elements for quick locking and unlocking, the system achieves rapid operation without the complexity of multiple locking components, tools, or intricate mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Quick take-down firearms and methods of using quick-take down firearms. The quick-take down includes an upper receiver coupling and a barrel coupling. The quick take-down can be unlocked by sliding a sliding lock collar in a translational motion to an unlocked position to release locking elements from a locked configuration. In the unlocked position, a barrel and handguard may be installed onto and removed from the upper receiver of the firearm. Releasing the sliding lock collar returns it to a locked position, securing the barrel and handguard to the upper receiver.