The quest of utter simplicity, combined with acceptable aesthetics and the best metal finish possible, have led me to experiment with shotgun design. No, it is not a business thing. Marketing guns, especially internationally, is a buraucratic nightmare.
My latest attempt, taken as far as 3D printing of a receiver with working metal action bits, is a round action, trigger plate lock, with inboard hammers. All action bits are held in place by three pins, the action provides auto rebound, hammer block for safety, works with only three coil springs. The barrels are simplified too.
It is, (my opinion, not gospel), simpler than a boxlock and safer, and much better looking. It is tempting to think of actually making a "real" one, to see test the theory that minimalism increases pleasure of use. From boxlocks to metaphysical debates, not the original poster had in mind, but possibly helpful in his quest.
