Spring-Loaded Crimp Die for Consistent Cartridge Reloading

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current crimping systems apply excessive force to cartridge cases and bullets, leading to deformation and reduced accuracy when used in firearms due to variances in casing thickness and length, necessitating a system that prevents excessive force application.

Innovation Solution

A die assembly with a crimping insert, spring, and preload adjuster configuration that allows the insert to move within the die body, adjusting the force applied to prevent deformation by enabling the insert to have space and reposition, thereby reducing excessive force on the cartridge case and bullet.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a rigid crimping insert is used to press the rim of the case against the bullet, then the cartridge can be securely positioned, but excessive crimping force is applied causing deformation of the cartridge case and bullet

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure positioning of cartridgeVSAvoidexcessive crimping force causing deformation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The crimping insert is changed from a rigid fixed position to a movable position by introducing a spring mechanism. The insert can now move dynamically within the die body, allowing it to adapt to variations in cartridge dimensions while maintaining secure positioning without excessive force.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The spring mechanism changes the force parameter applied by the crimping insert. By using a spring with specific preload force, the system provides adequate crimping force to secure the cartridge while preventing excessive force that would cause deformation, thus optimizing the force parameter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If a rigidly mounted crimping insert is used, then the structure is simple, but variances in casing thickness and length cause large variances in crimping force

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimple rigid structureVSAvoidconsistent crimping force
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The crimping insert is made movable within the die body through a spring mechanism, allowing it to adapt to variations in cartridge dimensions. This dynamic adjustment ensures consistent crimping force is applied regardless of casing thickness or length variances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The spring mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by absorbing force variations. The spring's elasticity compensates for dimensional variances in the cartridge case before the crimping force is applied, ensuring consistent results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Strength

If excessive crimping force is applied to secure the bullet, then the bullet is firmly held, but the cartridge case and bullet become deformed reducing accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefirm holding of bulletVSAvoidaccuracy of cartridge and bullet
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The spring mechanism optimizes the force parameter by providing adequate preload force to firmly hold the bullet while preventing excessive force that would cause deformation. The spring's elastic properties allow precise control of the crimping force parameter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The spring acts as an intermediary between the crimping insert and the cartridge case. It mediates the force transmission, ensuring the bullet is firmly held while protecting the cartridge case from excessive force that would reduce accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 ensures that the cartridge case and bullet are less likely to deform and maintain accuracy when used in firearms by preventing excessive force transfer, thus enhancing the reliability of the reloading process.

Implementation Method 1

A spring can be placed in contact with the insert within the die body. The spring is configured to ensure that the insert is configured around the base region within the die body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Implementation Method 2

The spring is compressed to enable the insert to have the area to be repositioned within the die body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20260078991A1Force limiting crimp die for metallic cartridge reloading
Publication Date: 2026.03.19 LANKFORD KEITH
  • US20260078991A1 patent drawing
  • US20260078991A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method includes a die body positioned vertically. An insert is placed within the die body. The insert is positioned around a base region within the die body. A spring is placed in contact with the insert within the die body. The spring is configured to ensure that the insert is configured around the base region within the die body. A preload force is set to be applied to the spring to enable the spring to remain in contact with the insert and allow the insert to move and be repositioned within the die body. A preload adjuster is positioned to be in contact with the spring and enable the insert to have an area within the die body to be repositioned.