Small Caliber Rifle Operating System With Pivoting Interface
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional operating systems for small caliber rifles face challenges such as frictional wear and joint failure due to extended use, and existing safety mechanisms are inadequate in preventing unintentional discharge, particularly during handling and storage.
Innovation Solution
The proposed operating system incorporates a pivoting interface between the op-rod and the bolt carrier to reduce torque and moment forces, a firing pin lock mechanism to prevent unintended firing, and an elastomeric insert to absorb recoil forces, enhancing durability and safety by decoupling non-axial motion from axial motion and providing a secure firing pin mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional operating systems are used, then the rifle can operate, but frictional wear and joint failure occur due to extended use
Solution Approach 1:
The operating system is divided into separate functional modules: the carrier assembly houses the bolt and extractor, the recoil assembly contains the op-rod and firing pin lever, and the plunger assembly manages gas pressure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and reduces wear at connection points by distributing mechanical stresses across multiple interfaces rather than concentrating them in a single joint.
Solution Approach 2:
The plunger acts as an intermediary between the gas system and the op-rod, absorbing and gradually transmitting recoil forces. The elastomeric insert serves as a mediator between the carrier assembly and receiver, providing cushioning and reducing impact forces. These intermediary elements reduce direct mechanical contact and friction between high-stress components, thereby extending service life.
2Reliability
If conventional safety mechanisms are used, then the rifle can be operated, but unintentional discharge cannot be prevented during handling and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The firing pin lever is integrated into the recoil assembly and mechanically linked to the trigger mechanism through the cam feature. This merging ensures that the firing pin is positively locked in the safe position unless the trigger is deliberately pulled, combining the safety function with the existing recoil mechanism rather than adding a separate complex safety device.
Solution Approach 2:
The firing pin lever and catch mechanism are designed to preemptively prevent unintentional discharge by maintaining positive engagement of the firing pin in the safe position. The cam feature creates a mechanical barrier that must be deliberately overcome by trigger pull, preventing accidental firing before it can occur rather than relying on post-failure safety features.
3Strength
If rigid connections are used between components, then structural strength is maintained, but torque and moment forces cause increased wear
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the recoil assembly and carrier assembly is designed to allow controlled rotation and movement rather than being completely rigid. The plunger assembly permits limited axial movement to absorb recoil forces, and the firing pin lever rotates on a pin to follow the cam profile. This dynamic design maintains structural strength while reducing torque and moment forces by allowing components to move with the forces rather than resist them rigidly.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric insert changes its physical parameters under load, transitioning from a rigid support to a compliant cushioning element. The material's elastic properties allow it to deform and absorb impact forces, changing the mechanical characteristics of the connection from rigid to flexible during high-stress events, thereby reducing transmitted torque and moment forces.
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 significantly reduces component wear, improves operational efficiency, and enhances safety by minimizing unintentional discharges, with improved durability and reduced maintenance requirements, leading to a more reliable and safer firearm operation.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric insert positioned at a cone interface
Implementation Method 2
a recoil assembly including a plunger and one or more plunger return springs
Data Source
AI summary
A weapon system is provided. The weapon system includes a receiver and an operating group. The operating group includes a bolt at least partially housed within the receiver; an operating rod (op-rod) assembly arranged to axially translate within the bolt. The operating group also includes a carrier assembly, a bolt assembly, and a recoil assembly. The system further includes a hinge or pivot joint at a connection between the recoil assembly and the carrier assembly, a firing pin lock, an elastomeric cone interface between the bolt assembly and the receiver, a hollowed out piston, and/or tapering on the lug of the bolt assembly.