The ergonomics of assault rifles have a direct impact on soldiers’ performance. The grip of assault rifles affects the shooting accuracy, stability, and endurance. However, the design of standard grips often overlooks the human hand anatomy, resulting in discomfort, fatigue, and reduced efficiency. This study presents the development of an adaptive and ergonomic pistol grip using a biomimicry approach, utilisation of anthropometric data, and additive manufacturing technology. The model of the pistol grip was developed in CAD. Glass-filled nylon 6/6 was selected as the main material, modeled using MAT_003 (MAT_PLASTIC_KINEMATIC). The tensile, compressive, and drop tests of the pistol grip were evaluated using LS-DYNA. The rigid surfaces were defined via MAT_RIGID elements. Biomimetic textures inspired by gecko feet microstructure were adopted to enhance grip and reduce the risk of slip. The drop tests simulate free-fall impacts from heights of 1.22 and 1.7 m at the impact velocities of 4.9 and 5.8 m/s, respectively, following National Institute of Justice (NIJ) equipment evaluation practices and the average height of users. For the ergonomic assessments, the CAD simulations and initial user trials demonstrate an improved grip alignment, reduced pressure points, and reduced fatigue. The PLA 3D-printed grip prototypes were found to be up to 20% lighter than nylon-based grips. It can be concluded that the biomimicry approach can improve the design of weapon grips.

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Development of an Adaptive and Ergonomic Pistol Grip Using a Biomimicry Approach

  • Balahariharran,
  • Mohamed Tarmizi Ahmad,
  • Mohamad Asmidzam Ahamat,
  • Rasidi Ibrahim,
  • Mohd Nor Faiz Norrrahim,
  • Kamsani Kamal,
  • Osmera Ismail,
  • Muhammad Syafiq Mohd Zamshari,
  • Razali Abidin

摘要

The ergonomics of assault rifles have a direct impact on soldiers’ performance. The grip of assault rifles affects the shooting accuracy, stability, and endurance. However, the design of standard grips often overlooks the human hand anatomy, resulting in discomfort, fatigue, and reduced efficiency. This study presents the development of an adaptive and ergonomic pistol grip using a biomimicry approach, utilisation of anthropometric data, and additive manufacturing technology. The model of the pistol grip was developed in CAD. Glass-filled nylon 6/6 was selected as the main material, modeled using MAT_003 (MAT_PLASTIC_KINEMATIC). The tensile, compressive, and drop tests of the pistol grip were evaluated using LS-DYNA. The rigid surfaces were defined via MAT_RIGID elements. Biomimetic textures inspired by gecko feet microstructure were adopted to enhance grip and reduce the risk of slip. The drop tests simulate free-fall impacts from heights of 1.22 and 1.7 m at the impact velocities of 4.9 and 5.8 m/s, respectively, following National Institute of Justice (NIJ) equipment evaluation practices and the average height of users. For the ergonomic assessments, the CAD simulations and initial user trials demonstrate an improved grip alignment, reduced pressure points, and reduced fatigue. The PLA 3D-printed grip prototypes were found to be up to 20% lighter than nylon-based grips. It can be concluded that the biomimicry approach can improve the design of weapon grips.