Model-Based Systems Engineering in the Design and Development of Firearm Suppressors

Abstract

Firearm suppressors play a critical role in reducing noise, flash, and recoil during firearm discharge. However, the design of suppressor systems presents challenges due to the need for precise optimization of acoustics, material science, and gas flow mechanics. This paper presents an integrated approach to the design and evaluation of firearm suppressors using Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and Systems Modeling Language (SysML) diagrams. This study applies hypothesis testing to verify the effectiveness of suppressor designs. By integrating MBSE into the systems engineering process, we ensure that design iterations and analyses are conducted systematically, from conceptualization through testing. The effectiveness of suppressors is measured using sound pressure levels (SPL) and evaluated using paired sample t-test which we focus only on statistical significance of noise reduction. This framework demonstrates how MBSE, SysML, and statistical testing improve the design and validation processes of firearm suppressors.