Universal Laser Sighter for Pistol Trigger Guard

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Solution Overview

Problem

Developing a suitable laser sighter for small pistols is challenging due to limited mounting space, requiring different configurations for each gun model, leading to increased manufacturing and inventory costs and complexity in assembly and concealment.

Innovation Solution

A universal laser unit incorporating a laser, power source, control unit, and adjustment mechanism in a compact, fully-assembled design that fits into various pistol casings, reducing the need for multiple configurations and simplifying assembly and inventory.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a laser is mounted on the side or top of a small pistol, then the laser sighter function is achieved, but the available space is insufficient and the assembled device becomes hard to conceal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser sighter functionVSAvoidconcealability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The laser assembly is nested within a casing that attaches to the trigger guard area of the pistol. The laser unit fits inside the casing, which itself attaches to the existing pistol structure, creating a nested configuration that minimizes overall volume while maintaining functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

A universal laser assembly design is created that can be adapted to multiple pistol models through a standardized casing interface. This allows the same laser unit to serve multiple functions across different pistol types, reducing the need for model-specific configurations.

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

2Ease of manufacture

If the laser is mounted to the trigger guard, then mounting space is utilized, but the laser can be jarred out of position and assembly becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting easeVSAvoidlaser position stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The laser unit is pre-assembled within the casing as a complete subassembly before attachment to the pistol. This preliminary assembly ensures proper positioning and alignment are established during manufacturing, and the entire unit is then secured as one piece to the trigger guard, preventing subsequent position changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The laser unit, its casing, and mounting features are merged into a single integrated assembly. This combination ensures that the laser cannot be jarred out of position relative to the casing, and the entire assembly attaches securely to the pistol trigger guard area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If different laser assembly configurations are made for each gun model, then fitment for each pistol type is achieved, but manufacturing and inventory costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefitment compatibilityVSAvoidinventory variety
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A universal laser assembly design is created with standardized dimensions and mounting features that can accommodate multiple pistol models. The casing is designed with adjustable or adaptable mounting interfaces that can fit different trigger guard configurations without requiring different laser units, thus reducing inventory variety while maintaining broad compatibility.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The laser assembly incorporates adjustable features within the casing that allow it to adapt to different pistol models dynamically. This may include adjustable mounting positions, flexible attachment mechanisms, or reconfigurable components that enable the same basic assembly to fit various gun configurations without manufacturing multiple fixed designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9297614B2Master module light source, retainer and kits
Publication Date: 2016.03.29 CRIMSON TRACE CORP
  • US9297614B2 patent drawing
  • US9297614B2 patent drawing
  • US9297614B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A master module incorporates a laser, a power source, a control unit and a laser adjustment mechanism. The module is a single, compact unit designed to fit into a small casing.