Trigger Guard Puncture Mechanism for Gas Cartridge Activation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing puncture mechanisms for high-pressure gas containers in projectile launchers are limited and lack efficient activation methods.

Innovation Solution

A trigger guard-activated puncture mechanism for a pneumatic launcher, comprising a trigger guard, pivot arm, and bias member, which moves a puncture needle to pierce the gas cartridge upon trigger guard actuation, returning to the normal position with a spring bias.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional puncture mechanism is used for high-pressure gas containers, then the gas release function is achieved, but the activation efficiency and operational safety are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational safetyVSAvoidactivation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger guard structure is merged with the puncture needle actuation mechanism. The trigger guard serves dual functions: protecting the trigger and actuating the puncture needle through its movement from first to second position. This integration eliminates the need for separate activation mechanisms, improving both safety and operational efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The bias member automatically returns the trigger guard to its normal position after actuation, and the puncture needle automatically pierces the gas cartridge when the trigger guard moves to the actuated position. The system uses its own components to perform the necessary actions without external intervention, enhancing reliability and reducing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If a complex puncture activation mechanism is implemented, then the puncture function is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepuncture reliabilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger guard is designed to perform multiple functions: it protects the trigger, acts as the actuation mechanism for the puncture needle, and works with the bias member for automatic resetting. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, simplifying the overall device while maintaining reliable puncture operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The bias member serves as an intermediary element that automatically resets the trigger guard to its normal position after actuation. This simple mechanical intermediary eliminates the need for complex control systems or additional actuation mechanisms, reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If the trigger guard structure is modified to activate the puncture needle, then the activation efficiency is improved, but the structural complexity of the trigger guard increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveactivation efficiencyVSAvoidtrigger guard structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger guard is designed with dynamic movement capability, transitioning from a first position to a second position to actuate the puncture needle. This dynamic design allows the trigger guard to perform both protective and actuation functions, improving activation efficiency without requiring multiple separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The trigger guard structure incorporates a trigger opening that segments the guard into distinct functional zones: a protective portion surrounding the trigger and an actuation portion that moves to pierce the gas cartridge. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Efficiently initiates high-pressure gas release for projectile firing, ensuring reliable and automatic return to the unactuated position, enhancing operational safety and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a bias member biasing one of the pivot arm and the trigger guard to normal position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring bias: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS20250347489A1Trigger guard puncture mechanism
Publication Date: 2025.11.13 UNITED TACTICAL SYSTEMS LLC
  • US20250347489A1 patent drawing
  • US20250347489A1 patent drawing
  • US20250347489A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A puncture mechanism for piercing a gas cartridge of a pneumatic launcher. The puncture mechanism has a trigger guard that surrounds a trigger of the launcher. The trigger guard has a first end connected to the frame of the launcher, and a second end connected to the handle of the launcher. The trigger guard moves from a first normal position to a second actuated position upon actuation of the trigger guard by a user. When the trigger guard is moved to the actuated position the gas cartridge is pierced by a puncture needle.