Carry system

Abstract

A carry system comprising a mounting platform 250 for securing to a carry device 200, and one or more load modules 300 for mounting on the platform. The load modules being arranged in use to contain o

Description

The present invention relates to a carry system and is concerned particularly, although not exclusively, with a personal carry system for carrying modular loads, and to an associated method. Military and other personnel are often required to carry a variety of loads on their person, sometimes in very challenging circumstances such as combat or emergencies. In the prior art, there have been a number of systems aimed at this need. Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) systems and other existing tactical gear attachment systems utilise a webbing of heavy-duty nylon loops stitched onto vests, backpacks, and other load-bearing equipment, allowing pouches and accessories to be attached using compatible straps and snaps. Figures la and lb show, schematically, generally at 100, a MOLLE-type vest as seen respectively from the rear and from the front. The vest comprises a main body 110, shoulder straps 120 and a waist belt 130 which in use fastens at the front of a wearer (not shown) . Across most of the surface area of the main body and waist belt are fabric loops 140 to which may be attached load modules of various kinds, using straps which engage the loops. While MOLLE is widely used due to its modularity and durability, it has several limitations: Firstly, MOLLE systems require significant time to attach, detach, and rearrange pouches and gear, which can be impractical in fast-paced operational environments. Secondly, once attached, equipment in MOLLE systems is often fixed in place, reducing the flexibility to quickly adapt to changing mission requirements. Also, standard MOLLE retention may not always provide the necessary security, leading to potential equipment movement or loss during intense activities. Furthermore, the addition of MOLLE webbing and attachment straps can contribute to extra weight and bulk, potentially impacting mobility and endurance. There are some alternative tactical gear attachment systems that use clips, buckles, or other mechanical fasteners. While these may offer quicker attachment and detachment compared to MOLLE, they still suffer from problems related to retention reliability, compatibility with existing platforms, and overall ease of use. Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a carry system and a method of personal carrying, that address the problems of the prior art. The present invention is defined in the attached independent claims, to which reference should now be made. Further, preferred features may be found in the sub-claims appended thereto . According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a carry system comprising a mounting platform for securing to a carrying device, and one or more load modules for mounting on the platform, the or each load module being arranged in use to contain or comprise an item of equipment, wherein the or each load module is releasably mountable on the platform by a magnetic attraction between the module and the platform. In a preferred arrangement, the carry system comprises a personal load bearing system and the platform is preferably arranged in use to be secured to a wearable carry device. The mounting platform is preferably arranged to be secured to a personal load bearing system such as, but not limited to a garment, such as a Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) article. The platform may be securable to the carry device by one or more of (but not limited to): strap, hook and loop fastener, stitching, press-stud, button, clip, clasp, buckle, catch. The one or more load modules may be mountable on the platform by a magnetic arrangement comprising at least one magnet unit attached to one of the module or platform, and at least one metallic plate attached to the other of the module or the platform. Preferably the magnet unit is attached to the module and the metallic plate is attached to the platform. The magnet unit(s) and plate(s) are preferably arranged to lie in superposition when the module is mounted on the platform. The plate may be mounted in a raised mounting configuration, spaced from the platform. The raised configuration may be multi-layer and may include one or more layers of spacing material. The raised mounting may include a recess for at least partly receiving a magnet unit to be magnetically engaged with the plate. The or each magnet unit preferably comprises one or more neodymium magnets. The or each plate may comprise a steel plate . The magnet unit may comprise a housing, preferably of thermoplastics for securely encasing the one or more magnets. A moulded housing may beneficially provide durability and precision in the placement of the magnets, enhancing overall strength and reliability. In a preferred arrangement, to further enhance the magnetic flux and reduce low-frequency electromagnetic disturbances, the system may employ magnetic shielding. This mechanical solution may use sheet metal and / or non-ferrous materials to focus the magnetic field, ensuring strong and consistent engagement between the load module and the platform. The or each load module may be secured additionally to the platform by a hook-and-loop system, such as VELCRO (RTM). As an alternative, or in addition, the or each load module may be secured to the platform by a ratchet mount. The ratchet mount may comprise one or more ratchet-type straps received in one or more ratchet-type sockets. The ratchet strap is preferably attached to the module and the socket to the platform. The ratchet engagement is preferably releasable, more preferably by pressing a tab or lever on the socket. The load module may include a flap system, such as a jump flap system, which may include a fabric envelope for retaining a load item, which envelope preferably attaches to itself, more preferably by one or more of (but not limited to): a strap, hook and loop fastener, stitching, press-stud, button, clip, clasp, buckle, catch. The load module may be arranged to contain or accommodate a load item including one or more of (but not limited to) : weapons, ammunition, tools, medical supplies, communications devices . There are preferably a plurality of interchangeable load modules . The invention also includes a mounting platform for securing to a carrying device, and one or more load modules for mounting on the platform, the or each load module being arranged in use to contain or comprise an item of equipment, wherein the or each load module is releasably mountable on the platform by a magnetic attraction between the module and the platform. The invention also includes a mounting platform for securing to a carrying device, and for receiving one or more load modules, the or each load module being arranged in use to contain or comprise an item of equipment, wherein the platform releasably receives the or each load module by a magnetic attraction between the module and the platform. The invention also includes a load module for mounting on a platform of a carrying system, the load module being arranged in use to contain or comprise an item of equipment, wherein the load module is releasably mountable on the platform by a magnetic attraction between the module and the platform. The platform and / or the module may be in accordance with any of the statements herein. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of carrying, the method comprising securing a mounting platform to a personal carrying device, and mounting one or more load modules on the platform, the or each load module being arranged in use to contain or comprise an item of equipment, wherein the method comprises releasably mounting one or more of the load modules on platform by a magnetic attraction between the module and the platform. In a preferred arrangement, the method comprises securing the platform to a wearable carrying device. The method may comprise securing the mounting platform to a personal load bearing system such as, but not limited to a garment, such as a Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) article. The method may comprise securing the platform to the carry device by one or more of (but not limited to): strap, hook and loop fastener, stitching, press-stud, button, clip, clasp, buckle, catch. The method may include securing the or each load module to the platform additionally by a hook-and-loop system, such as VELCRO (RTM). As an alternative, or in addition, the method may include securing the or each load module to the platform by a ratchet mount. The ratchet mount may comprise one or more ratchet-type straps received in one or more ratchettype sockets. The ratchet strap is preferably attached to the module and the socket to the platform. The ratchet engagement is preferably releasable, more preferably by pressing a tab or lever on the socket. The invention may include any combination of the features or limitations referred to herein, except such a combination of features as are mutually exclusive, or mutually inconsistent. A preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings, in which: Figures la and lb show schematically an example of a previously considered personal load carrying garment, respectively from the rear and from the front; Figure 2a is a schematic rear view of a personal load carrying apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figures 2b and 2c show schematically examples of load modules for use with the apparatus of Figure 2a; Figure 3 is a detailed schematic sectional view of a magnet and plate attachment of the load carrying apparatus; Figures 4(a) to 4(e) show schematically some examples of mounting platforms, according to embodiments of the present invention; Figures 5(a) to 5(d) show schematically some examples of load modules and associated components, according to embodiments of the present invention; Figures 6(a) to 6(c) show schematically an additional fixing arrangement for a load module on a plate according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Figures 7 (a) and 7 (b) show schematically an alternative configuration for a mounting plate according to an embodiment of the present invention. Turning to Figure 2a, this shows generally at 200 a personal load carrying device, in the form of a vest, according to an embodiment of the present invention (view from rear) . The apparatus 200 comprises a main body 210, a pair of shoulder straps 220 and a waist belt 230 that is fastenable at the front of a wearer (not shown). The main body 210 and waist belt 230 have fabric loops 240 across their surfaces for receiving mounting platforms 250 in the form of receiver boards. The boards 250 each comprise at least one ferromagnetic metallic plate 260. The boards also include hook-and-loop fastening portions 270. Figures 2b and 2c show examples of load modules for use with the personal load carrying device 200 of Figure 2a. The load modules, shown generally at 300, may comprise various shapes and sizes, but typically include a pouch or bag 310 for securely containing items, such as first aid items, munitions or provisions. The modules 300 each include a magnet unit 320 for securely mounting on the, or each, metal plate of the mounting platform and, optionally one or more hook-and-loop portions 330 for engaging with corresponding hook and loop portions of the mounting platform. The magnet units comprise one or more neodymium magnets arranged in a housing, as will be described below Figure 3 is a detailed sectional view of the magnetic connection between the mounting platform 250 and load module 300. The load module 300 has a magnet unit 320 comprising a magnet housing 340 and an array of neodymium magnets 350 located within the housing. The housing 340 is fixed to the fabric load module by fixing devices 360, which in this example are bolts. On the receiver board 250 is a steel plate 260, which is secured to the fabric of the receiver board 250 by fixing devices 255 (in this case bolts). The plate 260 and magnet 350 are aligned so that there is a strong magnetic attraction between them which ensures that the load module remains firmly attached to the mounting platform. In addition, the engagement of optional portions of hook and loop fastening material between the two (not shown in Figure 3 provides additional security to ensure that the module does not inadvertently become detached from the mounting platform. When a user wishes to remove the module from the platform, a strong, sustained pull is usually sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction and any hook and loop engagement. Modules can be quickly loaded, removed and interchanged as necessary. Other fixings (not shown) may be employed to provide additional security for the load module. Such additional fixings may include but are not limited to studs, hooks, buckles . The magnet unit 320, in which one or more magnets 350 are positioned stacked inside the magnet housing 340, is arranged so that the magnetic field obtained is focussed towards the plate 260 of the load module. In this way, in addition to providing a strong connection, any interference with equipment, such as communications equipment used by the wearer for example, is minimised. The example shown is of a mounting platform attached to a personal carrying device in the form of a vest. The platform may be attached to the front, rear or waistbelt portion, or any combination of these, depending on the suitability for locating the particular load module(s). For example, the mounting platform could be attached so that it is arranged to hang down from the waist belt or, in other embodiments (not shown), may be strapped to the leg or arm of the wearer. Figures 4(a) to 4(d) show some further examples of mounting platforms, known as "receiver boards", according to embodiments of the present invention. Reference numerals are intended to correspond with those of Figures 2-3 described above. In Figure 4(a), a board 4000 is for attachment to a personal carrying device, such as a MOLLE-type device described above, and comprises a main board portion 4250 comprising straps 4040 for securing the board to the MOLLE (not shown) and having hook and loop fastening material 4270 over a major portion of its surface area for attachment to a load module (not shown). Two metal receiver plates 4260 are included to connect magnetically with the load module. Two sets of hook attachments 4100 are provided also for extra engagement with corresponding features on the load module or a jump flap (as described below). Figure 4(b) shows the receiver board from the opposite side - i.e., the side facing the body of the wearer (not shown) in use. Loops 4120 are provided for the straps 4040 to attach to after passing through similar loops on the MOLLE. Figure 4 (c) shows a back panel 4500 for attaching to a personal carrying device (not shown) as a receiver board. The panel 4500 has hook and loop fastening material 4270 over most of its major surface and is provided with metal receiver plates 4260 and hook attachments 4100 all for engaging with a load module (not shown). Figure 4(d) also shows the panel 4500 from the opposite side, i.e., the side facing the body of a wearer in use. In addition, the back panel 4500 has zips 4600 for connecting to certain carry devices, and "rabbit teeth" connecting portions 4700, for connecting to a MOLLE-type carrying device. The rabbit teeth portions 4700 comprise a pair of tabs that slide into a respective pair of loops on the MOLLE-type apparatus. The portions 4700 may include small, lateral / transversely extending tabs that resist inadvertent withdrawal from the MOLLE loops. The load modules may comprise a variety of different shapes and structures, including but not limited to pouches, jump flaps or boxes, depending upon the items to be contained. Figures 5(a) and 5(b) show schematically some examples of load modules, known as "loadouts", generally at 5000, for attachment to a receiver board, such as 4000 or 4500. Reference numerals are intended to correspond with those used in Figures 1-2. Alternatively, or in addition, the rabbit teeth connectors may be mounted on a module for engagement with dedicated receiver slots on the receiver board. Figure 4(e) shows an example of this, including a module 5000 and a receiver board 4000. The module 5000 is shown with magnetic units 5320 for engagement with receiver plates 4260 on the board 4000. In addition, a pair of rabbit teeth connector tabs 5700 slide into dedicated received pockets P on the board 4000, for extra security. The contacting surfaces of the module and board include loop and eye material, such as Velcro (RTM). The tabs 5700 may be of thermoplastic or Pau Skin-type material or similar and are optionally laser-cut. The tabs may have a carbon-fibre-like weave, offering high strength, durability and flexibility and are preferably stitched or bonded to the body of the module. The tabs 5700 provide additional mechanical engagement to prevent forward / backward displacement of modules where extra security is needed. The modules can easily be removed instantly by slightly angling and pulling the tabs 5700 free from the pockets P. In Figures 5(a) (front) and 5(b) (rear) the load module 5000 comprises an individual first aid kit (IFAK) in the form of a pouch body 5100 for containing medical supplies (not shown). The pouch includes a pull handle 5200 at each side and magnetic units 5320 as described above with reference to Figure 3. The magnetic units 5320 each comprise magnets that are mounted within an injection moulded housing 5340 that is screwed to the pouch body 5100. Hook and loop material 5310 is provided on the majority of the surface that engages with the received board 4000 described above). In addition, hookengaging portions 5400 are provided to additionally secure the pouch to the receiver board. As an alternative, or in addition, a pull handle may be provided on the pouch body at a lower edge thereof. This allows the module to be rapidly deployed (detached) from the receiver board with an upward pulling motion. Figures 5(c) and 5(d) show jump flaps 5500 which may be used additionally with a load module, such as 5000. Figure 5(c) shows an upper jump flap and Figure 5(d) shows a lower jump flap. The drawings show the surfaces of the jump flaps that in use face the load module (not shown) and envelope it. The jump flaps 5500 attach to the receiver board (4000) using hooks, such as the mushroom hooks 5600 shown, or similar. Once the flaps 5500 are secured to the receiver boards they overlap one another to envelope the load module and connect using hook and loop fastener portions 5700. Figures 6(a) to 6(c) show an alternative arrangement for providing additional security when mounting a load module on a receiver board / plate. In Figure 6(a) a pouch module 6000 is shown, having a pouch body 6100 with magnet units 6200 at either side. Between the magnet units is a pair of ratchet straps 6300 for engagement with a ratchet mechanism shown in Figure 6(b). Figure 6(b) shows a receiver board 6400 on which the pouch 6000 is to be releasably mounted. The board 6400 has a pair of steel plates 6500 for receiving the magnets 6200 of the pouch 6000. Between the steel plates 6500 is a pair of spring biased ratchet receiver sockets 6600 for receiving the ratchet straps 6300 of the pouch 6000. Figure 6 (c is a schematic sectional view of one of the ratchet receiver sockets 6600 of the board 6400 in which is located a ratchet strap 6300 of the pouch 6000. The receiver socket 6600 has a pivotable spring-biased pawl 6610 that is able to securely engage with a ratchet profile 6310 of the strap 6300 when the latter is inserted into the former. When the strap 6300 is pushed into the socket 6600 teeth 6320 of the ratchet profile 6310 slide over the pawl 6610. However, when an attempt is made to withdraw the strap from the socket, the pawl catches on one of the teeth and prevents removal. In order to release the strap from the socket, it is necessary to press a distal end of the pawl 6610a, whereupon the pawl releases the strap. The use of the ratchet arrangement shown in Figures 6(a-c) provides a mechanical engagement that improves the ability to carry heavier items in difficult terrain. Figure 7(a) shows generally at 7000 an alternative mounting arrangement for a steel plate 7100 on a board (not shown). The steel plate 7100 is housed within a multi-layer structure that is designed to receive a magnetic unit from a load module (not shown) in a recess 7200. Figure 7(b) is a side view of part of the mounting 7000 of Figure 7(a) . The layers comprise a thermo-plastic board 7300, and a high-density foam spacer layer 7400 between which the steel plate 7100 is sandwiched. Above these, facing the load module (not shown) is a hook-and-loop-type material 7500 for engaging a corresponding feature on the module. The steel plate 7100 is positioned in the recess in the mounting arrangement 7000, so that a thickness of a magnet unit of the load module can be accommodated whilst allowing surface to surface contact between the hook-and-loop portions. Embodiments of the present invention relate to an advanced carry system, particularly designed for military, law enforcement, and other personnel who require modular and adaptable load-bearing solutions. This system offers a groundbreaking alternative to existing methods such as the Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) system, addressing critical limitations and enhancing operational efficiency. The present invention addresses the shortcomings of the MOLLE system and others of the prior art, and introduces an alternative that leverages the power of N52 neodymium magnets, optionally in combination with hook and loop fastenings, other fixings, and jump flaps for enhanced retention and flexibility. The system includes receiver boards that can be attached to a wide range of surfaces, from a soldier's plate carrier to vehicles, walls, motorcycles, and even animals. These boards are compatible with existing MOLLE systems, ensuring that they can be integrated into current setups without requiring extensive modifications. The receiver board can be used to store modules on / in vehicles such as (but not limited to) armoured vehicles, security / medical vehicles. In some implementations, the receiver boards feature a thermo-plastic vacuum-moulded housing that securely encases the magnets. This moulding process ensures durability and precision in the placement of the magnets, enhancing the overall strength and reliability of the attachment. To further enhance the magnetic flux and prevent low-frequency electromagnetic disturbances, in some implementations the system employs magnetic shielding. This mechanical solution uses sheet metal or non-ferrous materials to focus the magnetic field, ensuring strong and consistent attachment to the loadouts. Load modules, or loadouts, are the components designed to hold various types of equipment and can be attached to the receiver boards in any location. Most of the loadouts fall into one of three main types: Assault Boards: Designed for carrying offensive equipment such as breaching tools, ammunition, and pyrotechnics . Med Boards: Used for critical medical supplies, including stretchers, IFAKs (Individual First Aid Kits), and blood / IV management tools. Utility Boards: General-use boards featuring large compartments with zippers, suitable for carrying a variety of equipment. Enhanced Retention Mechanisms: In addition to magnets, loadouts can be secured to the receiver boards using Velcro (RTM) or similar and additional retention options such as G-hooks, side release buckles, and jump flaps with mushroom hooks. This multi-layered retention system ensures that the loadouts remain securely attached in all conditions. Mushroom hooks may comprise fasteners that include a broad, head portion and a narrower, stem portion, wherein the head portion may be arranged to pass through a slit, narrower than the head itself, and be retained in the slit. To allow the head to pass into the slit, the head may include a slot or cutaway that allows the head to be temporarily resiliently deformed / compressed. After passing through the slit, the head returns to a relaxed configuration in which it is retained by the slit. The mushroom connector may be used to connect various components including (but not limited to) : jump flaps, to each other and / or to a received board, or other modules to the receiver board. While the example discussed above uses magnetic shielding, as an alternative, or in addition, the system may incorporate a magnetic configuration, such as a Halbach Array, that will enhance the magnetic field on one side while cancelling it on the other, further improving the attachment strength and minimising interference with electronic equipment. Whilst the examples described above have a MOLLE-type personal carrier device, other plate carriers may be used that do not rely on MOLLE webbing. Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance, it should be understood that the applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features referred to herein, and / or shown in the drawings, whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

l.A carry system comprising a mounting platform for securing to a carry device, and one or more load modules for mounting on the platform, the or each load module being arranged in use to contain or comprise an item of equipment, wherein the or each load module is releasably mountable on the platform by a magnetic attraction between the module and the platform.2.A system according to Claim 1, wherein the system comprises a personal load bearing system and the platform is arranged in use to be secured to a wearable carry device.S.A system according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the platform is securable to the carry device by one or more of (but not limited to) : strap, hook and loop fastener, stitching, pressstud, button, clip, clasp, buckle, catch.

4. A system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more load modules are mountable on the platform by a magnetic arrangement comprising at least one magnet unit attached to one of the module or platform, and at least one metallic plate attached to the other of the module or the platform.

5. A system according to Claim 4, wherein the magnet unit is attached to the module and the metallic plate is attached to the platform.

6. A system according to Claim 4 or 5, wherein the magnet unit(s) and plate(s) are arranged to lie in superposition when the module is mounted on the platform.7.A system according to any of Claims 4-6, wherein the or each magnet unit comprises one or more neodymium magnets.8.A system according to any of Claims 4-7, wherein the magnet unit comprises a housing for securely encasing the one or more magnets.9.A system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system utilises magnetic shielding to enhance magnetic flux and reduce low-frequency electromagnetic disturbances.10 A system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the or each load module is secured additionally to the platform by a hook-and-loop system, such as VELCRO (RTM).11.A system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the load module includes a flap system, such as a jump flap system, which includes a fabric envelope for retaining a load item.

12. A system according to Claim 11, wherein the envelope attaches to itself by one or more of (but not limited to): a strap, hook and loop fastener, stitching, press-stud, button, clip, clasp, buckle, catch.

13. A system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the load module is arranged to contain or accommodatea load item including one or more of (but not limited to): weapons, ammunition, tools, medical supplies, communications devices .

14. A mounting platform for securing to a carrying device, and one or more load modules for mounting on the platform, the or each load module being arranged in use to contain or comprise an item of equipment, wherein the or each load module is releasably mountable on the platform by a magnetic attraction between the module and the platform.

15. A mounting platform for securing to a carrying device, and for receiving one or more load modules, the or each load module being arranged in use to contain or comprise an item of equipment, wherein platform releasably receives the or each load module by a magnetic attraction between the module and the platform.

16. A load module for mounting on a platform of a carrying system, the load module being arranged in use to contain or comprise an item of equipment, wherein the load module is releasably mountable on the platform by a magnetic attraction between the module and the platform.17.A method of carrying, the method comprising securing a mounting platform to a personal carry device, and mounting one or more load modules on the platform, the or each load module being arranged in use to contain or comprise an item of equipment, wherein the method comprises releasably mounting one or more of the load modules on platform by a magnetic attraction between the module and the platform.

18. A method according to Claim 17, wherein the method comprises securing the platform to a wearable carrying device .19.A method according to Claim 17 or 18, wherein the method comprises securing the mounting platform to a personal load bearing system such as, but not limited to a garment, such as a Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) article .20.A method according to any of Claims 17-19, wherein the method comprises securing the platform to the carry device by one or more of (but not limited to): strap, hook and loop fastener, stitching, press-stud, button, clip, clasp, buckle, catch.

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