US20210156650A1

US20210156650A1 - Friction fit handgun adapter for sighting systems

Info

Publication number: US20210156650A1
Application number: US17/247,035
Authority: US
Inventors: Tate Parker Harriman; Jack Paul Bennett
Original assignee: Harben Industries LLC
Current assignee: Harben Industries LLC
Priority date: 2019-11-25
Filing date: 2020-11-24
Publication date: 2021-05-27

Abstract

The present disclosure generally provides an adaptor for a firearm comprising a body having two opposed ends, a top and an opposing bottom, and two opposing sides extending between the top and the bottom, a male dovetail portion extending from the bottom near one of the ends, a longitudinal channel disposed between the two sides and extending from one end to the other end, and a transverse channel disposed between the two ends and extending from one side to the opposing side, wherein each side of the body extends out to form an angled portion with an apex near the center of each side.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. application Ser. No. 62/940,092, filed on Nov. 25, 2019, the teachings and content of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

None

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

The field of the disclosure relates generally to firearm accessories and sights. More specifically, the field of the disclosure relates to a firearm accessory designed to be friction fit within the existing dovetail slot of modern firearms, and especially within the existing dovetail slot of modern handgun slides. Still more specifically, the field of the disclosure relates to a firearm accessory designed to fit within the existing female dovetail slot of a modern handgun and to serve as a rear sight. Even more specifically, the field of the disclosure relates to a firearm accessory designed to fit within the existing female dovetail slot of a modern handgun and to support and/or attach further firearm accessories.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Within the firearms industry there is a significant need for a quick and efficient means of attaching a modern red dot, holographic, prism, etc. sighting device to handguns while maintaining their factory internal and external configurations and functionality of their existing “iron sights.” The aftermarket sight adapters currently available for purchase do not meet these requirements and are often subpar in their approach to solve this problem. The current method for attaching an adapter system for said sight systems requires special milling on handgun slides, set screws or pins, (both of which modify, damage, or distort the original finish and/or frame of the firearm) and complicated procurement and fitting procedures often leaving the average consumer to seek professional help via a gunsmith. Many manufacturers have even stopped providing warranty coverage for firearms using these aftermarket systems that require the changing of internal or external parts and the use of screws and/or an adhesive to function correctly.
The Friction Fit Adapter of the present disclosure allows consumers to quickly attach both a replacement rear iron sight, to be used in conjunction with their firearm's existing front iron sight, as well as a rail system that can be used to attach a multitude of different sighting systems, such as red dots, holographics, etc., with the use of a single brass/steel punch. The system and/or device of the disclosure is strong and rigid, able to hold a zero in even the harshest of physical conditions, but simple enough that anyone is able to install it on their firearm without consulting a professional gunsmith. The disclosed Friction Fit Adapter system uses the existing female “dovetail” slot found on modern handgun slides, usually reserved for the rear sight from the factory. Unlike the other designs claiming to solve the same problem, the present design requires no special adhesives or set screws to maintain its strength and placement in being connected to the firearm slide. This omission allows the system to function and maintain structural integrity and shot accuracy in even the most extreme weather conditions. In some forms, the design also features two small indentations on both the left and right of the male dovetail base, allowing for the punch to be used to tap the adapter in place within the female dovetail slot without scratching the existing finish of either the adapter or the firearm itself. In some preferred forms, the design features a dorsal cut that runs the length of the adapter which allows for the front iron sight to still be used in conjunction with the adapter's rear iron sight feature even while a separate sighting system such as a red dot, etc., or other firearm accessory is attached to the rail system. The adapter also places the separate sighting systems or firearm accessories high enough above a firearm's slide that the user does not have to worry about having a large muzzle device, such as a suppressor, block their view within the sighting window, allowing for more accurate fire when using such devices.
The device of the disclosure finds significant utility for general consumers, law enforcement, military personnel, as well as firearms manufacturers. Anyone that owns a firearm featuring a female rear dovetail sight apparatus that wishes to have an easy way to attach a different sighting apparatus to their firearm would use this device over other options. Consumers and Manufacturers alike are actively seeking a solution to the problems previously described within the firearms community; problems that the disclosed Friction Fit Adapter solves perfectly.
Users of the disclosed Friction Fit Adapter would retain all of the basic functions of their firearm's iron sight system. They would also gain the ability to quickly and easily attach a modern sight system, such as a red dot, holographic, prism, etc., to their handgun, even sights that are normally only reserved for larger weaponry such as modern rifles or shotguns. The adapter also makes the firearm more aesthetically aggressive, a common term described as “tactical”. The Adapter is a quick and low cost alternative to the current means of attaching a sighting system to a handgun frame.
In one embodiment of an adaptor for a firearm according to this disclosure, the adaptor generally comprises a body having two opposed ends, a top and an opposing bottom, and two opposing sides extending between the top and the bottom; a male dovetail portion extending from the bottom near one of the ends; a longitudinal channel disposed between the two sides and extending from one end to the other end; and a transverse channel disposed between the two ends and extending from one side to the opposing side; wherein each side of the body extends out to form an angled portion with an apex near the center of each side. Preferably, the male dovetail portion is adapted for insertion into the female dovetail portion of a firearm. In some preferred forms, the male dovetail portion includes a bottom face parallel to the bottom of said body and two opposed side faces parallel to the opposing sides of said body. In some preferred forms, the adaptor further comprises at least one indentation on the male dovetail portion. In some preferred forms, the at least one indentation is on one of the opposed side faces of said male dovetail portion. In some preferred forms, the adaptor further comprises at least one cavity in said body. In some preferred forms, the adaptor further comprises a sighting indicator on at least one of the opposing ends. In some forms, the sighting indicator is positioned below said longitudinal channel. In some forms, the transverse channel is adapted to receive a firearm sighting apparatus or other firearm accessory. In some forms, the body comprises aluminum, steel, or polymer. In some forms, the adaptor further comprises at least one outboard leveling screw extending from the top through the bottom of the body. In some forms of the adaptor, the at least one outboard leveling screw is located in a corner of the body. In some forms, there are at least two, three, four, or more outboard leveling screws. In one particularly preferred form, one outboard leveling screw is located in each of the four corners of the body. In some forms, the adaptor further comprises a firearm accessory mounted to the adaptor. In some preferred forms, the firearm accessory is selected from the group consisting of firearm accessories that are mountable on a rail system. The firearm accessory can be selected from the group consisting of sights, scopes, lights, clips, handles, grips, lasers, plate systems, adaptor kits, and any combination thereof.
The present disclosure also provides a method of installing the adaptor of the disclosure to a firearm. In general, the method comprises the steps of: positioning the male dovetail portion of the adaptor so that it is in line with the female dovetail portion of a firearm slide; and impacting the at least one indentation of the male dovetail portion of the adaptor with a device such that the male dovetail portion is frictionally fit within the female dovetail portion of the firearm. In some forms, the method further comprises the step of removing any existing male dovetail portion from the female dovetail portion of the firearm prior to frictionally fitting the male dovetail portion of the adaptor into the female dovetail portion of the firearm. In some preferred forms, the device used to impact the indentation is a punch. Preferably, the device used to impact the indentation is adapted to engage the at least one indentation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of the device of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a top down view of one embodiment of the device of the disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a rear view of one embodiment of the device of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the device of the disclosure;

FIG. 5 is another top down view of one embodiment of the device of the disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a handgun slide without the device of the disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the device of the disclosure and having a different sighting system attached thereto;

FIG. 8 is a rear view of one embodiment of the device of the disclosure and having a different sighting system attached thereto; and

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one embodiment of one embodiment of the device of the disclosure and illustrating four outboard leveling screws on the device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

This written description uses examples to describe the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.
In some forms and as shown in the attached drawing figures, the Friction Fit Adapter is preferably a solid or unitary piece of material featuring both a male dovetail attachment point (12) as well as a Weaver/Picatinny style rail system (2) mounted on the top of the smaller male dovetail point (12).
Turning to the drawings, FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 show the Friction Fit Adapter. All features of the part can clearly be seen as they would with the adapter not installed on a firearm (20) as shown at least in FIG. 4. The rearward male dovetail portion as well as the indentation for the punch during installation and positioning can be seen. The main adapter portion (1) is a solid rectangle. In some preferred forms, the main portion is 1.00-3.5 inches in length, including but not limited to 1.00, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2.00, 2.25, 2.50, 2.75, 3.00, 3.25, and 3.50 inches. Of course, longer versions are contemplated and covered within the scope of the disclosure. In some preferred forms, the main adapter portion is approximately 2 inches in length and features one, two, three or more three lateral cuts (3) along the top (5) surface. The long sides (4) of this rectangle are preferably chamfered at about a 45 degree angle, or any angle to accommodate fitment, on both the top (5) and bottom (6), forcing the edges into an equilateral point, with the front (7) and rear (8) faces are flat, approximately 90 degree surfaces. On the rear side of the adapter (8), a single or multiple indentations or indicators (9 or 27 in FIG. 9) are included to be used in conjunction with the front iron sight (10 in FIG. 4) for aiming. A single centered, dorsal cut (11 or 26 in FIG. 9) runs the length of the top of the adapter (5) to serve as a channel through which to line up the front iron sight (10 in FIG. 4) with the rear iron sight (9, 27) portion of the adapter (1). This cut (11, 26) can be of varying shape, such as a square, rectangle, diamond, circle, U-shape, etc. dependent upon the application for which the part is to be used. In some embodiments, approximately a quarter of the way from the rear (8) of the adapter (1), there is a small trapezoidal shape (12) protruding from the bottom (6) that's length, width, and ultimate shape are dependant upon the specific firearm's female dovetail slot (13 in FIG. 4) design. The design tolerances, dimensions, and shape can be designed during manufacturing such that the device of the disclosure is able to fit into any female dovetail slot (13 in FIG. 4) of any firearm with the same precise fit. The general design would feature the front (14) and rear (15) facing portions of this small male dovetail (12) portion being angled to match the paired firearm's female dovetail adapter (13 in FIG. 4) with the left (16) and right (17 in FIG. 3) faces being flat, approximately 90 degree surfaces. Within the center (18) of both the left (16) and right (17) faces of the male dovetail (12) there are small indentations (19) preferably corresponding in size with a common punch to be used in conjunction with said punch during installation.
In some forms the device features, but is not limited to, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more up to an infinite number of cuts or holes that are used to reduce weight while maintaining structural integrity (22).
In some forms and as shown in FIG. 9, the device features at least one outboard leveling set screw (28). The device may feature 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more up to an infinite number of leveling set screws (28) as determined by the profile parameters of the device and the structural integrity of the material of which it is made. These screws (28) are not required for functionality or mounting of the device. These screws (28) act as a precision adjustment for leveling the optic (21) in relation to the barrel and slide of the firearm for increased precision when using the featured iron sights (10, 9/26). The optional leveling screws (28) also expand the range of versatility of the device as they mitigate the moment arm generated through firing the firearm while more “extreme weight” optics (21), upwards of ½ pound or greater, are attached to the Friction Fit Adapter. In some preferred forms, the device features, but is not limited to, four outboard set screws (28) that run through the entire mass of the adapter surface (1) located in the four corners of the device, centered within the top surface (5) of the device and equidistant from the center and edges of the device.
FIG. 2 shows the Friction Fit Adapter from a top-down view. The lateral cut (3) for attaching different sighting apparatuses (21) can be seen as well as the centered dorsal cut (11) running the length of the part to be used when sighting with the rear (9, 27) and front iron sights (10). The optional large circular holes (22) for removing mass from the part can also be seen. The removal of mass to make the part as light as possible is important to ensure proper functionality when paired with firearms that have custom, weaker, lighter, etc. spring or other internal systems. The removal of excess mass also makes the part less cumbersome to carry for the user.
FIG. 3 shows the Friction Fit Adapter from the rear. The optional variant of the indicator (9) to be used in conjunction with the front sight (10) can clearly be seen as a diamond shape centered blow the sighting dorsal cut (11) running the length of the part. The approximate 45 degree chamfers on the sides (4) of the adapter plate for mounting Picatinny/Weaver style hardware can also be prominently seen.
FIG. 4 shows a CAD rendering of the Friction Fit Adapter installed on the slide frame of a Glock 19x handgun (20). The Adapter (0) can be seen at the rearward portion (23) of the firearm slide (20), installed within the female dovetail slot (13) where the factory iron sights were removed. It can also be seen how lining up the dorsal cut (11) and the front iron (10) would allow for consistent target acquisition and accuracy.
FIG. 5 shows the Friction Fit Adapter (0) installed on a Glock 19x handgun slide frame (20) as seen from the top-down point of view. The image shows the size and scope of the Adapter (0) in conjunction with the other components of this model of handgun, as well as gives an accurate representation of how the adapter (0) will look on a firearm (20) when properly installed.
FIG. 6 does not feature the Friction Fit Adapter (0) in any way, rather it shows the factory configuration of the rear iron sights (24) installed on a Glock 19x handgun slide frame (20) for a comparison in size, scope, and installation between the Friction Fit Adapter (0) installed on a Glock 19x handgun slide frame (20) shown in Illustration 5.
FIG. 7 shows one of the many variations of optional sighting systems (21) that can be attached to the Friction Fit Adapter (0) after its installation. The system (21) shown in the image is a common variant of an RMR Red Dot.
FIG. 8 is another view of one of the many variations of optional sighting systems (21) that can be attached to the Friction Fit Adapter (0) after its installation. It can be seen from the image that the dorsal cut (11) found on the top (5) of the Friction Fit Adapter (0) can still be used to sight using the pistol's front iron sight (10) (not shown) after the installation of a secondary optional sighting system (21).
FIG. 9 is a variant of the Friction Fit Adapter (0) which features four outboard leveling screws in each of the four corners (28). Illustration 10 also features an alternative version of the dorsal cut (26), (11) shown on Illustration 4, in a U-Shape instead of a square channel. Illustration 10 also features an alternative version of the rear iron sight apparatus (27), (9) on Illustration 3, using two dot indicators instead of a single diamond shape.
The Friction Fit Adapter (0) is preferably a solid or unitary piece of material featuring both a male dovetail attachment point (12) as well as a Weaver/Picatinny style rail system (2) mounted on the top of the smaller male dovetail point (12). The main adapter portion (1) is preferably a solid rectangle. In some preferred forms, the main portion (1) is 1.00-3.5 inches in length, including but not limited to 1.00, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2.00, 2.25, 2.50, 2.75, 3.00, 3.25, and 3.50. In some preferred forms, the main adapter portion (1) is approximately 2 inches in length and features one, two, or three lateral cuts (3) along the top (5) surface. The long sides (4) of this rectangle are chamfered at an approximately 45 degree angle, or any angle to accommodate fitment, on both the top (5) and bottom (6), forcing the edges (4) into an equilateral point, with the front (7) and rear (8) faces are flat, approximately 90 degree surfaces. On the rear (8) side of the adapter, a single or multiple indentations or indicators (9, 27) are included to be used in conjunction with the front iron sight (10) for aiming. A single centered, dorsal cut (11) runs the length of the top (5) of the adapter (0) to serve as a channel through which to line up the front iron sight (10) with the rear iron sight (9, 27) portion of the adapter (1). Approximately a quarter of the way from the rear (8) of the adapter (1), there is a small trapezoidal shape (12) protruding from the bottom (6) that's length, width, and ultimate shape are dependent upon the specific firearm's female dovetail slot (13) design. The design tolerances can be slightly updated during manufacturing to fit into any female dovetail slot (13) of any firearm (20) with the same precise fit. The general design would feature the front (14) and rear (15) facing portions of this small male dovetail (12) being angled to match the paired firearm's female dovetail adapter (13) with the left (16) and right (17) faces being flat, approximately 90 degree surfaces. Within the center (18) of both the left (16) and right (17) faces of the male dovetail (12) there are small indentations (19) corresponding in size with a common punch to be used in conjunction with said punch during installation. In some forms, the device features four outboard “leveling” set screws (28). The device may feature 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more up to an infinite number of leveling set screws (28) as determined by the profile parameters of the device and the structural integrity of the material of which it is made. These screws (28) are not required for functionality or mounting of the device. These screws (28) act as a precision adjustment for leveling the optic (21) in relation to the barrel and slide of the firearm for increased precision when using the featured iron sights (10, 9,27). The optional leveling screws also expand the range of versatility of the device as they mitigate the moment arm generated through firing the firearm while more “extreme weight” optics, upwards of a ½ pound or greater, are attached to the Friction Fit Adapter. In some preferred forms, the device features, but is not limited to, four outboard set screws (28) that run through the entire mass of the adapter surface (1) located in the four corners of the device, centered within the top surface (5) of the device and equidistant from the center and edges of the device.
In some preferred forms, the Friction Fit Adapter (0) is a single piece of aluminum, steel, or other material such as polymer that functions as a replacement rear sight (24) for a handgun (20) featuring a female “dovetail” slot (13). Beneficially, the Adaptor also functions for allowing for the attachment of an aftermarket sighting apparatus (21) such as a red dot, prism sight, scope, etc. or other firearm accessory that would typically be mounted to a rail system, such as sights, scopes, lights, clips, handles, grips, lasers, plate systems, adaptor kits, and any combination thereof. By using a common punch and hammer, the user can tap the factory rear sight (24) out of the female dovetail slot and easily install the Friction Fit Adapter (0) into the now free female dovetail slot (13) in the same manner. Once installed and centered, the Adapter (1) can be used as a backup rear sight (9, 27) to be lined up with the factory front sight (10) of the firearm (20) for aiming. The user can then attach an additional sighting apparatus (21) such as a red dot, prism sight, holographic sight, etc. with the lateral (3) and horizontal rail system (2) featured on the top (5) of the Adapter (1). Sights often only available for use on larger weaponry such as shotguns and rifles can also be attached for use on the handgun featuring the Friction Fit Adapter System (0). The user can then use the now attached separate sighting system (21) for aiming or continue to use the rear iron sight system (9, 27) featured on the adapter (1) in conjunction with the factory front iron sight (10) on the firearm (20).
The Friction Fit Adapter (0) can be used to attach an additional sighting apparatus (21), such as a red dot, prism, scope, holographic, etc., using the lateral cuts (3) found on the top (5) of the adapter (1), which form the face (5) into a Weaver/Picatinny style rail system (2). The Adapter (1) may also be used as a standalone rear sight apparatus (9, 27) that, when paired with the firearm's (20) existing and separate front iron sight system (10), can be used for aiming the firearm (20). The style, functionality, features, etc. of the firearm's (20) separate iron sight system (10) do not affect the Friction Fit Adapter's (0) standalone rear sight (9, 27) functionality or ease of installation at any time. This same secondary option of a standalone rear sight system (9, 27) can also be used, when paired with the firearm's (20) existing and separate front iron sight system (10), while there is an additional sighting apparatus (21), such as a red dot, prism, scope, holographic, etc. attached to the Adapter (1), giving two simultaneous options that can be used to aim the firearm (20). The Friction Fit Adapter (0) features two circular indentations (19) on the left (16) and right (17) approximately 90 degree faces of the male dovetail portion (12), allowing for a punch to be inserted and used to tap the Adapter (0) into place with the help of a separate, user-provided hammer, without the risk of bending, scratching, harming, etc. the material, shape, fit, or finish of the Adapter (0) or firearm (20). The Friction Fit Adapter (0) requires no screws, pins, nails, adhesives, flutes, warps, or other forms of attachment other than the natural friction that occurs due to the tight fit between the male dovetail portion (12) of the Friction Fit Adapter (0) and the female dovetail portion (13) of the firearm (20) to remain in place. Heating, cooling, weather elements, general mishandling, rigorous use, metal deterioration, etc. do not affect how the Friction Fit Adapter (0) holds or is secured within the female dovetail (13) of the firearm (20), allowing it to be used in the most extreme conditions while maintaining integrity and accuracy.
In some forms, the device features four outboard “leveling” set screws (28). These screws (28) are not required for functionality or mounting of the device. These screws (28) act as a precision adjustment for leveling the optic (21) in relation to the barrel and slide of the firearm for increased precision when using the featured iron sights (10, 9/27). The optional leveling screws also expand the range of versatility of the device as they mitigate the moment arm generated through firing the firearm while more “extreme weight” optics, upwards of 1 pound or greater, are attached to the Friction Fit Adapter.
To produce the Friction Fit Adapter (0) a milling machine, multi-axis CNC, etc. is used to cut the angles and channels of the required specifications out of a single piece of aluminum, steel, etc. The same can be accomplished with a custom mold and injection polymer materials, plastics, use of a 3D printer and printing materials, etc. The product (0) can be produced as a single unit or in batches on an assembly line. For the best outcome, a finishing method such as powdercoating, duracoating, ceracoating, parkerizing, anodizing, bluing, sandblasting, clear coating, etc. should be used to protect the exposed metal from the elements as well as give it a more aesthetic appearance by adding color, shine, gloss, matte, patterns, designs, etc.
Tolerances on the male dovetail portion (12) are checked using precision ground pins held tight to the uppermost angle and measured with precision micrometers to ensure proper fitment in the rear dovetail slot.
To install the Friction Fit Adapter (0) a common punch tool and any household hammer is used. First, use the punch to gently tap out the factory rear sight (24) currently installed on the firearm (20), if not done so already. This will remove the rear sight (24) from the firearm's female dovetail slot (13) to be used during the installation of the Friction Fit Adapter (0). Turn the firearm (20) with the barrel portion (25) pointing away from the installer, as seen in Illustration 8. With the firearm (20) in this position, place the left face (16) of the Adapter's (0) male dovetail (12) into the firearm's (20) female dovetail (13) slot. The Adapter (0) should appear in the configuration shown in FIG. 3, if placed correctly. Place the punch tool into the punch installation indentation (19) found on the right face (17) of the Adapter's (0) male dovetail (13) and use the hammer to gently tap it (0) into the firearm's (20) female dovetail slot (13) until the dorsal cut (11, 26) is centered in line with the firearm's (20) front iron sight (10).
To remove the Adapter (0), place the punch into the punch installation indentation (19) on the left face (16) of the male dovetail (12) and use the hammer to gently tap it (0) until it (0) is slid all the way out of the firearm's (20) female dovetail slot (13).
While installed on a firearm (20), a punch can be placed into the punch installation indentation (19) on either the right (17) or the left (16) faces of the male dovetail portion (12) and gently tapped to the left or right, but not removed entirely from, in the firearm's (20) female dovetail slot (13) to change the point of impact of the bullets fired from the firearm (20) while using the Adapter's (1) rear iron sight (9, 27) and the firearm's (20) front iron sight (10) to aim.
For variants featuring the optional leveling screws (28), after the device is installed on the slide (20) through the methods described, a torque wrench is used to tighten the leveling screws. When more than one leveling screw is used, the screws are tightened in an alternating pattern. For example, when 4 leveling screws are used, they are tightened in a diagonal pattern until each screw is lightly touching the surface of the firearm slide (20), or to a desired torque value, to ensure a precise and level surface for the optic (21). An adhesive such as Locktite, or other thread locking adhesive, can be used to secure the screws (28) in place once torqued to ensure maximum stability, but importantly is not required for mounting or otherwise.
The securement and fit of the device has been rigorously tested using a professional Fault Error Analysis model in a 3D modeling software designed to model the forces exerted on the device during a firing cycle while a multitude of different sighting systems such as red dots, holographics, etc., of varying weight and shape profiles are attached to the device. This testing was conducted by Offset Strategic Services (OSS), a third-party engineering firm, located in Huntsville, Ala. Using this data it was determined that the device can adequately accommodate virtually any optic system available on the market, with respect to the tolerances required for the proper operation of the firearm, determined by the weight and shape of the attached optic and not directly by the functionality of the device. Several functional, production-ready prototypes have been tested in live-fire exercises in excess of several thousand rounds of ammunition. Based on the live-fire data accumulated in conjunction with the Fault Error Analysis data, it was determined that the actual functional lifetime of the device is upwards of 100,000 rounds of fired ammunition, which is nearly double of other options currently on the market.
This written description uses examples to describe the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Example 1

The purpose of the model and simulation was to conduct Finite Element Analysis (FEA) on the accessory through simulated firing events. The customer obtained a Glock 21 for OSS to model. The Glock 21 was chosen due to its chambering in the 45 ACP caliber. The round produces one of the heaviest recoil patterns based on other Glock handguns and calibers. The Model was built using PTC Creo Simulate 7.0. PTC Creo (Boston, Mass.) is state of the art software for modeling and analysis. Creo is used by NASA, Boeing, Dynetics and many other DIB contractors for internal computational fluid dynamic simulations, primarily for FEA in physical structures. With the core of the simulation tool provided by Ansys, a high-fidelity FEA software provider, it is second to none.
To model the firing impulse, a live fire test was conducted. A Ransom Rest was used to secure the pistol to ensure consistent data collection. 230 grain .45 caliber full metal jacket ammunition was fired. During each firing event, slow-motion video (1,000 frames per second) was taken of the firings. Using the raw video imported into video processing software, OSS counted each frame, determining both the time and distance for the slide to travel, rebound and return to firing position.
OSS developed a digital twin of a Glock 21 handgun, the Friction Fit Adapter and three potential optical attachments, paying attention to the measured size, weight, and center of gravity (COG) of each component in the system. Using Creo Simulate they created assemblies attaching each of these optic models to the Friction Fit Adapter mount. Using each of these assemblies they used Creo 7.0 Simulation to perform the stress analysis. OSS used publicly available data listed by the manufacturers to accurately model and describe the data points for the three test optics.
The first of the three optics modeled was the EOTECH XPS 2.0, with a described length, width, and height of 3.8″×2.1″×2.5″ respectively. The optic is described with a weight value of 9.0 oz without batteries, and requires 1 CR123 battery for operation. The optic mounts to a 1″ or greater Weaver or M1913 Picatinny rail extrusion.
The second was an EOTECH HWS 512, described with a length, width, and height of 5.6″×2.0″×2.5″ respectively. The optic is described with a weight value of 11.5 oz without batteries and requires two 1.5 volt AA batteries, either lithium, alkaline, or rechargeable. The optic mounts to a 1″ or greater Weaver or M1913 Picatinny extrusion.
The third was a Trijicon ACOG, described with the length, width, and height of 6″×2.9″×2.5″ respectively. The optic is described with a weight value of 18.1 oz without batteries and requires no batteries for basic operation. The optic does require one 1.5 volt AA battery if the optics illumination feature is to be used. The optic features a 4× magnification factor and is listed as being made of forged aluminum.
Within Creo, OSS modeled the three optics described above that could potentially be mounted using the Friction Fit Adapter. These were first tested using the variant of the device with no added leveling set screws. They selected a 9 oz. EOTech XPS 2.0 and the 12 oz. EOTech 512 as excessively-large and heavy test subjects that could potentially be mounted by the user but would not conceivably be used commonly in the widespread firearms community due to their heft on the top of a handgun frame. Using F=Ma the force imparted to the system from the two optics was 35 Lbm and 45 Lbm respectively. Since Trijicon makes so many popular optics within the firearms community and military, OSS picked a heaver model to get over 16 ounces to evaluate a worst possible pairing (in terms of stress on the Friction Fit Adapter) between weapon and optic that would still theoretically allow the firearm to function under its normal factory parameters. OSS selected the 18.1-ounce ACOG 4×42 riflescope which caused unacceptable deformation and high-stresses, indicating likely stress-induced failures of the dovetail area. To obtain a factor of safety, OSS doubled the calculated forces and used 70 Lbm and 90 Lbm in the FEA analysis when testing the EOTech XPS 2.0 and HWS 512 optics.
When the Friction Fit Adapter was tested using the 9 oz EOTech XPS 2.0, the test indicated excessive stresses, roughly 12,100 PSI average, with the Friction Fit Adapter with no optional leveling screws situated around the male dovetail mounting surface. When the device was tested with the same optic and included the optional leveling set screws the stresses were cut by a factor of three, roughly 4330 PSI average, by displacing the maximum stress across the surface rather than focused on the male dovetail mounting surface.
When the Friction Fit Adapter was tested using the 11.5 oz EOTech HWS 512, the test indicated excessive stresses, 13,500 PSI on average, with the device not including the optional leveling set screws. When the device was tested with the same optic and included the optional leveling set screws the stresses were cut by nearly a factor of four, 3250 PSI on average.
When the Friction Fit Adapter was tested using the 18.1 oz Trijicon ACOG 4×42 riflescope the test indicated excessive stresses, 14,500 PSI on average, with the device not including the optional leveling set screws. When the device was tested with the same optic and included the optional leveling set screws the stresses were cut by nearly a factor of seven, 2200 PSI on average.
The tests were conducted with the Friction Fit Adapter having the material profile of 7075-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum due to its widespread use in the firearms industry, ease of manufacturing, and common availability. They conservatively estimated that when using more common handgun optics and smaller rifle optics of less than half a pound, 8 oz, that the Friction Fit Adapter would function for 100,000 cycles. They also conservatively concluded that when the optional leveling set screws are included, the Friction Fit Adapter would function as intended for 100,000 cycles with an optic of approximately 12 oz of weight attached. Based on this information it can also be concluded that when common handgun or smaller rifle optics are used with the Friction Fit Adapter with included option leveling set screws the lifetime of functionality of the device significantly increases. When larger accessories or optics are used, the number of cycles will decrease although the device will still be functional for thousands of rounds before needing to be replaced. Potential variables are variable optic weights, custom ammunition with higher velocity rounds increasing the energy in the system, torque on screws, as well as environmental effects such as extreme cold or heat, etc.
The test was conducted using the Glock 21 chambered in 45 ACP as a parameter. Based on the average recoil pattern of the 45 ACP cartridge, it is seen as one of the heaviest recoil pattern cartridges that is featured in a semi-automatic handgun frame. Based on the data collected, it is safe to say that if the Friction Fit Adapter was placed on a handgun chambered in a smaller caliber, such as 9 mm, 380 ACP, or 40 Smith and Wesson, that the performance would greatly exceed the conservative lifetime estimates with attached optics, due to the lighter recoil profiles (less stress forces acting on the device) of the smaller rounds.
The test results showed that adaptors of the disclosure remain secure, maintain their integrity, and retain their accuracy for more than 10,000, 20,000, 30,000, 40,000, 50,000, 60,000, 70,000, 80,000, 90,000, 100,000, and more rounds without the use of any of the leveling screws. Preferably, without set screws, the adaptor can hold, support, or be attached to accessories, such as rail-mounted accessories including optics, up to 8 oz in weight and remain secure, maintain their integrity, and retain their accuracy for more than 10,000, 20,000, 30,000, 40,000, 50,000, 60,000, 70,000, 80,000, 90,000, 100,000, and more rounds. When accessories that weigh more than 8 oz are used or attached to the Friction Fit Adaptor of the present disclosure, they also remain secure, maintain their integrity, and retain their accuracy for more than 10,000, 20,000, 30,000, 40,000, 50,000, 60,000, 70,000, 80,000, 90,000, 100,000, and more rounds through the use of one or more of the leveling set screws, as described above.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An adaptor for a firearm comprising:

a body having two opposed ends, a top and an opposing bottom, and two opposing sides extending between the top and the bottom;

a male dovetail portion extending from the bottom near one of the ends;

a longitudinal channel disposed between the two sides and extending from one end to the other end; and

a transverse channel disposed between the two ends and extending from one side to the opposing side;

wherein each side of the body extends out to form an angled portion with an apex near the center of each side.

2. The adaptor of claim 1, wherein said male dovetail portion is adapted for insertion into the female dovetail portion of a firearm.

3. The adaptor of claim 1, wherein said male dovetail portion includes a bottom face parallel to the bottom of said body and two opposed side faces parallel to the opposing sides of said body.

4. The adaptor of claim 1, further comprising at least one indentation on the male dovetail portion.

5. The adaptor of claim 4, wherein said at least one indentation is on one of the opposed side faces of said male dovetail portion.

6. The adaptor of claim 1, further comprising at least one cavity in said body.

7. The adaptor of claim 1, further comprising a sighting indicator on at least one of the opposing ends.

8. The adaptor of claim 7, wherein said sighting indicator is positioned below said longitudinal channel.

9. The adaptor of claim 1, wherein said transverse channel is adapted to receive a firearm sighting apparatus.

10. The adaptor of claim 1, wherein said body comprises aluminum, steel, or polymer.

11. The adaptor of claim 1, further comprising at least one outboard leveling screw extending from the top through the bottom of the body.

12. The adaptor of claim 11, wherein the at least one outboard leveling screw is located in a corner of the body.

13. The adaptor of claim 11, wherein there are at least four outboard leveling screws.

14. The adaptor of claim 13, wherein one outboard leveling screw is located in each of the four corners of the body.

15. The adaptor of claim 1, further comprising a firearm accessory mounted to the adaptor.

16. The adaptor of claim 15, wherein the firearm accessory is selected from the group consisting of firearm accessories that are mountable on a rail system.

17. The adaptor of claim 15, wherein the firearm accessory is selected from the group consisting of sights, scopes, lights, clips, handles, grips, lasers, plate systems, adaptor kits, and any combination thereof.

18. A method of installing the adaptor of claim 4 comprising the steps of:

positioning the male dovetail portion of the adaptor so that it is in line with the female dovetail portion of a firearm slide; and

impacting the at least one indentation of the male dovetail portion of the adaptor with a device such that the male dovetail portion is frictionally fit within the female dovetail portion of the firearm.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the device used to impact the indentation is a punch.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the device used to impact the indentation is adapted to engage the at least one indentation.