Tool-less Shotgun Forend Assembly with Spring Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current shotgun forend replacement methods require tools and are time-consuming, making it difficult for users to quickly change forends in the field for different users or applications.
Innovation Solution
A spring-biased, tool-less connect/disconnect system using a tongue-and-groove arrangement and a spring-loaded latch allows for easy attachment and removal of forends without tools, enabling quick changes in the field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional screw or locking mechanism forends are used, then the forend is securely attached to the carrier, but the forend replacement requires tools and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The forend attachment system is segmented into separate functional components: a tongue element on the forend, a groove element on the carrier, and a spring-loaded latch mechanism. This segmentation allows the forend to be quickly released by simply pulling it forward, eliminating the need for tools to remove screws or manipulate locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded latch mechanism automatically engages with the tongue element when the forend is inserted and can be easily disengaged by pulling the forend forward. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external tools or complex manual operations, allowing users to quickly replace forends themselves in the field.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional screw forends are used, then the forend is securely attached, but the shooter must use a tool like a screwdriver to swap forends
Solution Approach 1:
The screwdriver and other tools are extracted from the forend replacement process entirely. The attachment mechanism is redesigned to use simple geometric interlocking (tongue and groove) combined with a spring-loaded latch that can be operated by hand, eliminating the need to carry or use external tools for forend replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The forend attachment system is designed to be universally applicable to different forend types while maintaining a simple, tool-free replacement process. The carrier and latch mechanism remain the same, but different forends with compatible tongue elements can be quickly swapped, providing versatility without requiring specialized tools for each forend type.
3Reliability
If screws are used to attach the forend, then the attachment is secure, but the shooter may lose a screw and have to search for it
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded latch acts as an intermediary between the forend and carrier, providing secure attachment without requiring screws. The latch mechanically engages the tongue element in the groove, creating a reliable connection that is as secure as screwed forends but much simpler to install and remove, eliminating the risk of losing small fasteners.
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 rapid and tool-free forend changes, improving user convenience and reducing time when switching between different users or game types, enhancing versatility and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded latch, extending from the carrier, and a pocket in the forend
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus are disclosed for substituting a different forend assembly in a long gun (e.g., a shotgun) without the use of tools by a user in the field. Applicants' preferred apparatus for substituting a forend comprises: a modified forend carrier that is affixed to the long gun (e.g., the illustrated shotgun); a forend; and tool-less means for removably attaching the forend onto the carrier, or removing the forend off the carrier, without the use of tools, wherein the tool-less means comprises: (i) a tongue-and-groove arrangement in the forend and carrier, and (ii) a releasable lock contained, at least in part, in the carrier. This permits the forend to be swapped out.