Self-Calibrating Firearm Accessory Mount with Belleville Washers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional firearm accessory mounts require a torque wrench for secure attachment, which can be inconvenient and impractical for users.
Innovation Solution
A self-calibrated firearm accessory mount with a cross-bolt assembly, biasing assembly, and extension feature that provides a predetermined attachment force of 750 to 1000 pounds without the need for a torque wrench, using Belleville washers and a stop shelf to secure the mount to the firearm rail.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple nut and bolt assembly is used to secure the mount, then the device complexity is reduced, but the attachment force is insufficient without a torque wrench
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing assembly automatically applies the required attachment force to the nut and bolt assembly when the accessory mount is installed. The spring mechanism self-adjusts to maintain proper clamping force without requiring external tools or manual torque adjustment, making the system self-sufficient while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing assembly dynamically adjusts the attachment force parameter based on installation conditions. The spring compression and mechanical leverage transform the initial installation force into a consistent, predetermined attachment force range, ensuring reliable securing without requiring precise manual torque control.
2Manufacturing precision
If a torque wrench is required for installation, then the attachment force can be precisely controlled, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing assembly performs the precision function of torque control automatically through its spring mechanism and mechanical advantage system. The user simply needs to install the mount, and the biasing assembly self-regulates to achieve the predetermined attachment force, eliminating the need for precision tools while maintaining force accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user's installation action and the final attachment force. It translates simple installation movements into precise, controlled clamping force through its spring-loaded mechanism, serving as a mechanical mediator that ensures precision without requiring precision tools.
3Reliability
If a biasing assembly is added to provide predetermined attachment force, then the reliability of attachment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into distinct functional components: the biasing assembly for force application, the nut and bolt assembly for structural connection, and the mounting interface for attachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, with the biasing assembly providing reliability while the other components maintain simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing assembly is integrated with the existing nut and bolt fastening mechanism, combining the force-generation function with the structural connection function. This merging allows the system to achieve reliable attachment without adding a completely separate complex mechanism, as the biasing assembly works in conjunction with the simple fastener components.
4Ease of operation
If the accessory mount uses a self-calibrating fastening system, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing assembly incorporates self-calibrating features that automatically adjust for manufacturing tolerances and installation variations. The spring mechanism and mechanical advantage system self-regulate to achieve the predetermined attachment force, compensating for minor manufacturing imprecisions while maintaining ease of operation for the user.
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
Enables secure attachment of firearm accessories without the need for a torque wrench, ensuring consistent and reliable attachment force through the use of a biasing assembly and indicator for visual confirmation of proper tightening.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing assembly configured to fit within the housing and to provide an axial attachment force
Implementation Method 2
The biasing assembly includes at least one flat washer and a plurality of Belleville washers
Implementation Method 3
an indicator rotatably connected to the accessory mount, wherein the indicator is configured to indicate a predetermined attachment force when rotated to an upper position
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a firearm accessory mount having a fastening system that is self-calibrated to achieve a proper predetermined attachment force for securely attaching the accessory mount to a firearm, without the need for a torque wrench.