Variable-Length Firearm with Sliding Dual-Barrel Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional firearms are bulky and inefficient for urban warfare scenarios, requiring multiple parts and tools for conversion between short and long-range capabilities, which reduces functional reliability and is impractical for quick changes in crisis situations.
Innovation Solution
A dual-barrel firearm system where the upper barrel is longer than the lower barrel, with tabs guided along control tracks in the frame, allowing for quick conversion between modes without additional parts, ensuring a continuous active barrel for both short and long-range use, and featuring a spring bias for rapid switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single firearm is designed to operate in both close-quarters and long-range scenarios, then versatility is improved, but barrel length and precision cannot be simultaneously optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The firearm is divided into two separate barrel assemblies (first barrel assembly and second barrel assembly) with different lengths and precision characteristics. The shorter first barrel is optimized for close-quarters combat with faster handling, while the longer second barrel is optimized for long-range precision shooting. This segmentation allows each barrel to be independently optimized for its specific operational role without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrel assembly is designed as a dynamic component that can be quickly exchanged between two configurations. The quick-release mechanism allows the operator to switch between the short and long barrel assemblies in seconds, adapting the weapon's characteristics to match the immediate operational requirements without permanently compromising either close-quarters agility or long-range precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adapters are used to extend pistol barrels for long-range use, then versatility is improved, but functional reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using adapters or add-on components, the firearm incorporates separate, factory-integrated barrel assemblies as core components of the weapon system. This ensures that both the short and long barrel configurations are designed and manufactured as reliable, integrated systems rather than as after-market attachments, thereby maintaining high functional reliability across both range configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The firearm merges multiple barrel configurations into a single integrated weapon system with a common frame, trigger group, and magazine well. This unified design ensures consistent reliability across both short and long barrel modes, eliminating the reliability issues associated with separate adapter systems or modular attachments that require multiple connection points and potential failure modes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conversion tools and multiple parts are carried for weapon adaptation, then versatility is improved, but device complexity and portability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The firearm merges multiple weapon configurations into a single integrated system where both the short and long barrel assemblies are part of the same weapon platform. This eliminates the need to carry separate pistols, adapters, or conversion tools, as both configurations are already integrated into the firearm itself, thereby reducing overall system complexity and improving portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The firearm frame and operating mechanisms are designed with universal compatibility to accept both barrel assemblies. The common trigger group, magazine well, and frame structure serve both close-quarters and long-range configurations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized tools or parts and simplifying the overall system while maintaining configuration flexibility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conversion requires multiple hand movements or tools, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The barrel assembly is designed as a dynamic, quickly exchangeable component with a simple quick-release mechanism. The operator can switch between the short and long barrel configurations in seconds with minimal hand movements, making the adaptation process as simple as changing a magazine. This dynamic design prioritizes rapid configuration changes over complex but slow conversion procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Both barrel assemblies are pre-configured and pre-attached to the firearm frame, with all necessary mounting features and alignment mechanisms already in place. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex assembly steps or special tools during conversion, allowing the operator to simply release one barrel and attach the other in a quick, intuitive motion.
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 a lightweight, portable firearm that combines assault rifle and machine pistol capabilities, allowing seamless transitions between modes in seconds with enhanced reliability and reduced length for easy transport and use in close-quarters combat.
Implementation Method 1
The barrel assembly is biased by at least one spring connected to the frame toward a predetermined position
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a firearm comprising a housing (1), having a cartridge feed (2), a breechblock, an impacting unit having a trigger, optionally a magazine shaft (3) for holding a magazine (4), and a unit (5) of two barrels (6, 7) arranged one over the other. The upper barrel (6) is longer than the lower barrel (7). Guide protrusions (8) are provided on the unit (5) of the two barrels (6, 7), which guide protrusions are guided in corresponding control tracks (9, 10) in the housing (1), whereby the two barrels (6, 7) can be moved along the control tracks (9, 10) between two end positions, wherein, when each end position is reached, alternately one of the two barrels (6, 7) aligns with the cartridge feed (2) and therefore forms the active barrel, which can be locked in this position.