Varying Height Selector Track for Firearm Grip Module
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearm grip modules face issues with inconsistent and inadequate resistance when switching between operational modes, particularly in preventing inadvertent disassembly during normal operation, especially in MP5-type weapons.
Innovation Solution
A raised selector track with varying heights and a removable molded-in stop is introduced, providing distinct resistance levels for different operational modes and allowing for seamless conversion from semi-auto to full-auto capability by modifying the selector track and trigger assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional selector lever interface is used in MP5-type weapons, then the weapon can operate in semi-automatic mode, but the interface suffers from tolerance stacking between the selector lever back through the grip module and into the receiver, resulting in inconsistent resistance and inadequate prevention of inadvertent disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The selector track is pre-formed with varying heights and a molded-in stop feature integrated into the grip module before final assembly. This preliminary structuring ensures that when the selector lever is installed, the tolerance stacking issue is already compensated for by the built-in stop, preventing inadvertent disassembly without requiring ultra-precise manufacturing tolerances across multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The selector track incorporates varying heights (first height, second height, third height) to create different resistance levels at different positions. This parameter change in the track geometry provides consistent resistance throughout the selector lever's travel, compensating for tolerance variations and ensuring reliable operation regardless of manufacturing tolerances.
2Ease of operation
If a traditional selector track with uniform height is used, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the resistance felt by the user is inconsistent when switching between operational modes
Solution Approach 1:
The selector track is designed with different local qualities - specifically, different heights at different positions along the track. The first portion has a first height, the second portion has a second height, and the third portion has a third height. This local variation in geometry provides consistent resistance feedback to the user at each operational mode position, while the track itself remains a single integrated component for manufacturing efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the grip module is designed for semi-automatic operation only, then the initial manufacturing is simpler, but conversion to full-automatic capability requires extensive modification
Solution Approach 1:
The selector track incorporates a removable stop feature that can be selectively removed or retained. In semi-automatic configuration, the stop is removed to allow the selector lever to reach the full-automatic position. In full-automatic configuration, the stop is retained to prevent movement into the disassembly position. This dynamic, reconfigurable feature allows easy conversion between modes without extensive manufacturing modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The selector track is designed as a separate, modular component with distinct portions (first, second, and third portions) that can be independently analyzed and modified. The molded-in stop is integrated into this modular track, allowing it to be removed or retained as needed for conversion between semi-automatic and full-automatic operation, simplifying the conversion process.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatus for a firearm grip module (100) having a selector track (102) arcing concentrically around a selector lever aperture (122) in one of two walls of the firearm grip module (101) are disclosed. The selector track (102) can include multiple levels or heights, corresponding to different operating mode positions of a selector lever (124), where these different heights cause differing resistance to movement of the selector lever (124), where greater height equals greater resistance. The selector track (102) may also include a safety indentation (106), a semi-auto indentation (110), and a full-auto indentation (118). The selector track (102) may also include a removable, molded-in stop (114), between the semi-auto and full-auto indentations, which blocks the selector lever (124) from overtraveling a standard fire position.