Rotating Flow Restrictor for Gas-Actuated Firearm Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gas-actuated firearms face issues with premature wear and jamming due to varying propellant gas pressures and flow rates, especially when using sound suppressors or different types of cartridges, and existing solutions require cumbersome adjustments or external tooling, which are impractical in military or law enforcement scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A gas block assembly with a flow restrictor device that can be rotated to selectively restrict propellant gas flow, allowing for adjustment without tools and providing tactile feedback on position, thereby maintaining optimal operating parameters for the firearm's action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If a sound suppressor is used on the firearm, then the gas pressure within the bore increases, but the action may experience premature wear and damage due to excessive pressure and flow rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by providing a flow restrictor device that can be adjusted to change the gas flow rate parameter. The flow restrictor includes an adjustable orifice plate that allows the user to modify the gas flow characteristics to match different cartridge types and suppressor configurations, thereby preventing excessive pressure and wear on the action while maintaining optimal operating parameters
2Adaptability or versatility
If removable sleeves are used to provide different degrees of flow restriction, then the flow rate can be adjusted, but the device requires cumbersome component disassembly and external tooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the flow restrictor adjustable rather than requiring complete disassembly. The flow restrictor device includes an adjustable orifice plate that can be modified in the field without removing components, allowing users to adapt the flow restriction to different conditions dynamically while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The flow restrictor device is designed to be self-adjusting without requiring external tooling or complex disassembly procedures. The adjustable orifice plate can be modified by the user in the field based on the cartridge type or suppressor usage, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for specialized tools or component removal
3Adaptability or versatility
If a flow restriction device is located within the action, then flow restriction can be provided, but the device may remain directly in the gas path at all times, introducing additional pressure drop when not desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the flow restrictor adjustable rather than fixed. The flow restrictor device includes an adjustable orifice plate that can be modified in the field without removing components, allowing users to adapt the flow restriction to different conditions dynamically while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The flow restrictor is segmented from the main gas path when not in use. The adjustable orifice plate can be positioned to minimize restriction when standard operation is required, and only engages fully when flow restriction is needed for specific cartridge types or suppressor configurations, thereby reducing unnecessary pressure drop
4Adaptability or versatility
If the gas block is moved into different positions to align with differently-sized gas ports, then the flow rate can be regulated, but the gas block becomes stuck to the barrel due to propellant gas residue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical adjustment method (moving the gas block to different positions) with a different approach. Instead of physically relocating the gas block, the system uses an adjustable flow restrictor device that regulates flow rate through controlled orifice plates, eliminating the need to move the gas block and preventing residue accumulation that causes sticking
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 effectively reduces the risk of premature wear and jamming by adjusting propellant gas flow and pressure to match the firearm's design parameters, even under exigent conditions, without requiring tooling or disassembly, enhancing reliability and usability in tactical situations.
Implementation Method 1
A flow restrictor device (54) is mounted for rotation on the gas block (25) and has a flow restrictor (56) that restricts the flow of propellant gas through the gas block assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Gas block assemblies for use with gas-actuated firearms include a flow-restrictor device that permits variation of the flow of propellant gas to the action of the firearm. The flow-restrictor device is switchable between a first position at which the device restricts the flow, and a second position at which the device does not present any restriction to the flow. In addition, the flow restrictor device can be configured to permit adjustments in the degree of flow restriction generated when the flow-restrictor device is in its first position.