Rail band assembly with adjustable counter weights

WO2026202952A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-10-01SMPP LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/IN2026/050536
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2025-03-27
Filing Date
2026-03-25
Publication Date
2026-10-01

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Abstract

Disclosed is a rail band assembly (100) including a mounting rail (102) extending across a width of the assembly, a plurality of buckle assemblies (104) positioned on a lower portion of the rail band assembly, and a counter weight assembly (106) attached to a side of the rail band assembly The counter weight assembly (106) is configured to be adjustably secured to one of the plurality of buckle assemblies (104) and includes at least one weight component removably attachable to a base component. The counter weight assembly (106) may include a threaded base (302) for attachment to a buckle assembly, with weights (304, 306) having external threading corresponding to internal threading of the base. The assembly may also include attachments (312, 314) positioned above and below the weights, or locking clips (328, 330) for securing weights to the base.
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Description

[0001] RAIL BAND ASSEMBLY WITH ADJUSTABLE COUNTER WEIGHTS FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure relates to head-mounted equipment, and more particularly to a rail band assembly with adjustable counter weights.

[0003] BACKGROUND

[0004] Rail band assemblies are commonly used in various applications, including military and law enforcement equipment, to provide a secure mounting platform for accessories such as night vision goggles, visors, or other head-mounted devices. These assemblies typically consist of a band that fits around the user's head, with integrated rails or attachment points for mounting additional equipment.

[0005] Conventional rail band assemblies often face challenges in maintaining proper balance and weight distribution when accessories are attached. The added weight of mounted devices can cause discomfort, fatigue, and potential strain on the user's neck and shoulders during extended periods of use. Some existing systems attempt to address this issue by incorporating fixed counterweights, but these solutions may not provide sufficient flexibility to accommodate different accessory configurations or user preferences.

[0006] Current counterweight systems for rail band assemblies may have limitations in terms of adjustability and modularity. Many designs offer limited options for finetuning the weight distribution, making it difficult to achieve optimal balance for individual users and specific equipment setups. Additionally, some systems may require tools or complex procedures to adjust or replace counterweights, reducing the ease of use and adaptability in the field.

[0007] Therefore, there exists a need for a technical solution that solves the aforementioned problems of conventional systems and methods for rail band assemblies.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is notintended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0010] In an aspect of the present disclosure, a rail band assembly is disclosed. The rail band assembly includes a mounting rail extending across a width of the assembly. A plurality of buckle assemblies are positioned on a lower portion of the rail band assembly. A counter weight assembly is attached to a side of the rail band assembly. The counter weight assembly is configured to be adjustably secured to one of the plurality of buckle assemblies. The counterweight assembly comprises at least one weight component removably attachable to a base component.

[0011] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the counter weight assembly comprises a threaded base configured to attach to one of the plurality of buckle assemblies. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the at least one weight component comprises a first weight and a second weight. Each weight has external threading corresponding to internal threading of the threaded base.

[0012] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first weight is configured to thread into the threaded base. The second weight is configured to thread onto the first weight.

[0013] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the counter weight assembly comprises a first attachment and a second attachment positioned above and below the at least one weight component, respectively.

[0014] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the at least one weight component comprises a first weight and a second weight arranged in a stacked configuration between the first attachment and the second attachment.

[0015] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the counter weight assembly comprises a base configured to connect to one of the plurality of buckle assemblies.

[0016] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the at least one weight component comprises a first weight and a second weight arranged in a vertical stack configuration above the base.In some aspects of the present disclosure, the rail band assembly further comprises a first locking clip and a second locking clip configured to secure the first weight and the second weight to the base.

[0017] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the mounting rail comprises a curved design that follows a contour of the rail band assembly.

[0018] The foregoing general description of the illustrative aspects and the following detailed description thereof are merely exemplary aspects of the teachings of this disclosure and are not restrictive.

[0019] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0020] The following detailed description of the preferred aspects of the present disclosure will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example, and not limited by the accompanying figures, in which like references indicate similar elements.

[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates a rear view of a rail band assembly, according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates a front orthogonal view of a first buckle assembly, according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 3A illustrates an exploded view of a counter weight assembly with a part of the buckle assembly, according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of a counter weight assembly connected to a first buckle assembly, according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 3C illustrates an exploded view of another counterweight assembly, according to aspects of the present disclosure; and

[0026] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method for assembling and adjusting a rail band assembly with a counter weight assembly, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0027] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The following description sets forth exemplary aspects of the present disclosure. It should be recognized, however, that such description is not intended as a limitationon the scope of the present disclosure. Rather, the description also encompasses combinations and modifications to those exemplary aspects described herein. FIG. 1 illustrates a rear view of a rail band assembly 100. The rail band assembly 100 may be configured for use in head-mounted equipment applications, providing a structure for attaching and balancing various components.

[0029] The rail band assembly 100 may comprise a mounting rail 102 that extends across a width of the assembly. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the mounting rail 102 may comprise a curved design that follows a contour of the rail band assembly 100. This curved design may allow the rail band assembly 100 to conform to the shape of a user's head, potentially enhancing comfort and stability when worn.

[0030] A plurality of buckle assemblies 104 may be positioned on a lower portion of the rail band assembly 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of buckle assemblies 104 may include a first buckle assembly 104a and a second buckle assembly 104b. These buckle assemblies may serve as attachment points for various components or straps, potentially allowing for adjustable fitting of the rail band assembly 100 to different head sizes.

[0031] The rail band assembly 100 may further comprise a counter weight assembly 106 attached to a side of the rail band assembly 100. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the counter weight assembly 106 may be positioned adjacent to the second buckle assembly 104b. The counterweight assembly 106 may be configured to balance the weight distribution of the rail band assembly 100 when additional equipment, such as night vision goggles or visors, are attached to the opposite side of the assembly.

[0032] The overall structure of the rail band assembly 100 may provide a versatile platform for mounting and balancing head-mounted equipment. The combination of the curved mounting rail 102, the plurality of buckle assemblies 104, and the counter weight assembly 106 may allow for customizable configurations to suit various user needs and equipment requirements.FIG. 2 illustrates a front orthogonal view of a first buckle assembly 104a. The first buckle assembly 104a may comprise a first part 202 and a second part 204. The first part 202 may include projecting elements at its upper portion that extend outward in opposite directions. The second part 204 may be positioned below the first part 202 and may include similar projecting elements at its lower portion. The first part 202 and second part 204 may be connected in a central region where their respective structures meet.

[0033] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first part 202 and / or the second part 204 may include one or more cavities that are configured to accommodate a plurality of weight blocks. The plurality of weight blocks may be adjusted within the one or more cavities such that the each of the plurality of weight blocks may be adjusted alone or in combination with each other.

[0034] The design of the first buckle assembly 104a may show symmetrical features along a vertical axis, with both parts having complementary shapes that form the complete buckle assembly structure. This symmetrical design may contribute to the stability and functionality of the first buckle assembly 104a within the rail band assembly 100.

[0035] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first buckle assembly 104a may be configured to interact with a counter weight assembly. The counter weight assembly may use magnetic locks to attach to the first buckle assembly 104a. The magnetic locks may provide a secure yet easily detachable connection between the counter weight assembly and the first buckle assembly 104a.

[0036] Additionally, the counter weight assembly may use a click lock mechanism to attach to the first buckle assembly 104a. This click lock mechanism may offer an alternative or complementary attachment method, providing audible feedback when properly engaged and ensuring a secure connection.

[0037] The structure of the first buckle assembly 104a may allow the counter weight assembly to be adjustably secured. This adjustability may be facilitated by the projecting elements on both the first part 202 and second part 204, which may serve as attachment points or guides for the counter weight assembly. The ability toadjustably secure the counter weight assembly to the first buckle assembly 104a may allow users to fine-tune the balance and weight distribution of the rail band assembly 100.

[0038] The configuration of the first buckle assembly 104a, with its two-part structure and symmetrical design, may contribute to the overall functionality of the rail band assembly 100 by providing a stable and versatile attachment point for the counter weight assembly. This design may allow for easy adjustment and secure attachment of the counter weight, enhancing the usability and effectiveness of the rail band assembly 100 in various applications.

[0039] FIG. 3 A illustrates an exploded view 300 of a counter weight assembly 106 with the second part 204 of the first buckle assembly 104, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. As illustrated in the exploded view 300 in FIG. 3A, the counter weight assembly 106 may be configured to attach to the rail band assembly 100, specifically to the second part 204 of the one of the plurality of buckle assemblies 104, such as the first buckle assembly 104a or the second buckle assembly 104b.

[0040] The counter weight assembly 106 may comprise a threaded base 302 that may be configured to attach to one of the plurality of buckle assemblies 104. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the threaded base 302 may include internal threading to facilitate the attachment of additional components.

[0041] The counter weight assembly 106 may further comprise at least one weight component that may be removably attachable to the threaded base 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one weight component may include a first weight 304 and a second weight 306. The first weight 304 and the second weight 306 may each have external threading that corresponds to the internal threading of the threaded base 302.

[0042] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first weight 304 may be configured to thread into the threaded base 302. This configuration may allow for secure attachment of the first weight 304 to the threaded base 302 while also providing the ability to easily remove or adjust the weight as needed.Furthermore, the second weight 306 may be configured to thread onto the first weight 304. This arrangement may allow for additional weight to be added to the counter weight assembly 300 in a modular fashion. The ability to add or remove weights may provide flexibility in adjusting the overall weight of the counter weight assembly 300 to suit different requirements or preferences.

[0043] The threaded design of the components in the counter weight assembly 300 may allow for an adjustable weight configuration. Users may add or remove weights as needed, providing a customizable solution for balancing the rail band assembly 100. This adjustability may be particularly useful when different equipment or accessories are attached to the rail band assembly 100, requiring different levels of counter balancing.

[0044] In operation, a user may attach the threaded base 302 to one of the plurality of buckle assemblies 104 on the rail band assembly 100. The user may then thread the first weight 304 into the threaded base 302. When additional weight may be desired, the user may thread the second weight 306 onto the first weight 304. This modular and adjustable design may allow for fine-tuning of the counter weight to achieve optimal balance for the rail band assembly 100 and any attached equipment.

[0045] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view 308 of the counter weight assembly 106 connected to the first buckle assembly 104a. As illustrated in the side view 308 in FIG. 3B, the counter weight assembly 106 may include multiple components arranged in a vertical configuration. A threaded base 310 may be positioned at the lower portion of the second part 204 of the first buckle assembly 104a,.

[0046] The counter weight assembly 106 may include a first attachment 312 and a second attachment 314 positioned above and below a first weight 316 and a second weight 318 respectively. The first weight 316 and the second weight 318 may be shown as solid cylindrical components integrated within the assembly. The components may be arranged in a stacked configuration, with threaded connections visible between the elements to enable secure attachment and adjustment of the weights.

[0047] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the at least one weight component may comprise the first weight 316 and the second weight 318 arranged in a stackedconfiguration between the first attachment 312 and the second attachment 314. This arrangement may allow for modular assembly and easy adjustment of the counter weight assembly.

[0048] The counter weight assembly 106 may comprise the first attachment 312 and the second attachment 314 positioned above and below the at least one weight component, respectively. This configuration may provide stability to the weight components and facilitate secure attachment to the first buckle assembly 104a. The threaded connections between the components may allow for customizable weight configurations. Users may add or remove weights as needed, providing flexibility in adjusting the overall weight of the counter weight assembly 106 to suit different requirements or preferences. This adjustability may be particularly useful when different equipment or accessories are attached to the rail band assembly 100, requiring different levels of counterbalancing.

[0049] The side view depicted in FIG. 3B demonstrate how the individual components align and connect to form the complete counter weight assembly 106. This design may allow for the weights to be securely attached to the first buckle assembly 104a, providing counterbalance functionality to the rail band assembly 100.

[0050] FIG. 3C illustrates an exploded view 320 of nother counter weight assembly 106a that may be configured to connect to the first buckle assembly 104a. As illustrated in the exploded side view 320 in FIG. 3C, the counter weight assembly 106 may comprise multiple components arranged in a vertical stack configuration.

[0051] The counter weight assembly 106 may include a base 322 that may be configured to connect to the first buckle assembly 104a. Above the base 322, a first weight 324 may be positioned, which may be followed by a second weight 326. The counter weight assembly 106 may utilize a first locking clip 328 and a second locking clip 330 to secure the components together.

[0052] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the rail band assembly 100 may further comprise the first locking clip 328 and the second locking clip 330 configured to secure the first weight 324 and the second weight 326 to the base 322. This securing mechanism may differ from the threaded design shown in previous figures,potentially offering advantages in terms of quick attachment and detachment of weights.

[0053] The components of the counter weight assembly 106 may be designed to be assembled in a modular fashion, with each element stacking vertically upon the previous one. The base 322 may serve as the foundation for mounting the weights, while the first weight 324 and second weight 326 may be cylindrical in shape and appear to be of similar dimensions.

[0054] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the counter weight assembly 106 may use a twist to open mechanism for attaching and detaching weights. This mechanism may allow for easier adjustment of the counter weight compared to the threaded design shown in previous figures. The twist to open mechanism may provide quick access to the weight cavity for adding or removing weights as needed.

[0055] Furthermore, in some aspects of the present disclosure, the counter weight assembly 106 may use a half open twist and close mechanism with a weight cavity. This design may allow for partial access to the weight cavity without fully detaching the weights, potentially offering a balance between security and ease of adjustment. The at least one weight component may comprise the first weight 324 and the second weight 326 arranged in a vertical stack configuration above the base 322. This arrangement may allow for incremental weight adjustments by adding or removing individual weights as needed.

[0056] The design of the counter weight assembly 106 may allow for the weights to be attached to the a second part 204 of the first buckle assembly 104a, providing counterbalance functionality. The exploded view demonstrates how the individual components may align and connect to form the complete counter weight assembly 320.

[0057] This alternative design of the counter weight assembly 106 may offer several advantages over the previously described threaded design. The use of locking clips instead of threads may allow for quicker attachment and detachment of weights. The twist to open and half open twist and close mechanisms may provide easier access to the weight cavity for adjustments. These features may enhance theusability of the rail band assembly 100 by allowing for more rapid and convenient weight adjustments to balance various equipment configurations.

[0058] In operation, the rail band assembly 100 may provide a versatile platform for mounting and balancing various head -mounted equipment. The mounting rail 102 may extend across the width of the assembly, offering a curved design that may follow the contour of a user's head. This curvature may enhance comfort and stability when the rail band assembly 100 is worn.

[0059] A plurality of buckle assemblies 104 may be positioned on a lower portion of the rail band assembly 100. These buckle assemblies may serve as attachment points for various components, potentially allowing for adjustable fitting to different head sizes. The counter weight assembly 106 may be attached to a side of the rail band assembly 100, typically adjacent to one of the buckle assemblies.

[0060] The counter weight assembly 106 may be configured in various ways to provide balance and adjustability. In one configuration, as shown in FIG. 3A, the counter weight assembly 300 may comprise a threaded base 302 that attaches to one of the buckle assemblies. The first weight 304 may thread into the threaded base 302, and the second weight 306 may thread onto the first weight 304. This arrangement may allow for incremental weight adjustments by adding or removing weights as needed.

[0061] Another configuration, illustrated in FIG. 3B, may show the counter weight assembly 106 with a first attachment 312 and a second attachment 314 positioned above and below the first weight 316 and second weight 318, respectively. This stacked configuration may provide stability to the weight components while facilitating secure attachment to the buckle assembly.

[0062] FIG. 3C depicts yet another configuration where the counter weight assembly 106 may utilize a base 322 that connects to a buckle assembly. The first weight 324 and second weight 326 may be arranged in a vertical stack above the base 322. The first locking clip 328 and second locking clip 330 may secure the weights to the base, potentially offering quicker attachment and detachment compared to the threaded design.The versatility of these counter weight configurations may provide several advantages. Users may adjust the weight distribution of the rail band assembly 100 to compensate for additional equipment attached to the opposite side, such as night vision goggles or visors. This balancing capability may enhance comfort during extended use and reduce strain on the user's neck.

[0063] The modular nature of the counter weight assemblies may allow for fine-tuning of the balance. Users may add or remove individual weights to achieve optimal weight distribution fortheir specific equipment configuration. This adaptability may make the rail band assembly 100 suitable for a wide range of head -mounted equipment applications.

[0064] The various attachment mechanisms - threaded, stacked with attachments, and clip-secured - may offer different benefits in terms of security and ease of adjustment. The threaded design may provide a highly secure connection, while the clip system may allow for rapid changes. Users may choose the configuration that best suits their needs based on the frequency of adjustments required and the nature of their activities.

[0065] In summary, the operation of the rail band assembly 100 with its adjustable counter weight assembly may offer significant advantages in terms of balance, comfort, and versatility. The ability to customize the weight distribution may enhance the usability of various head-mounted equipment, potentially improving user performance and reducing fatigue in diverse applications.

[0066] Although FIG. 2 to FIG. 3C illustrate structural and functional aspects with respect to the first buckle assembly 104a, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to it. Specifically, the structural and functional aspects as discussed for the first buckle assembly 104a apply to the second buckle assembly 104b as well, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method 400 for assembling and adjusting a rail band assembly with a counter weight assembly. The method 400 begins with step 402, which involves providing a rail band assembly with a mounting rail. In step404, buckle assemblies are positioned on the lower portion of the rail band assembly. Step 406 follows, where a counterweight assembly is attached to the side of the rail band assembly.

[0068] The method 400 then proceeds to decision step 408, which determines ifneedlf there is a to adjust the counter weight, adjustment is needed (Yes branch), the method 400 continues to step 410, where a weight component is either removed or added. This is followed by step 412, where the weight component is secured to the base component. If no adjustment is needed at decision step 408 (No branch), the method 400 proceeds directly to step 414, where the counter weight assembly is secured to the buckle assembly.

[0069] After completing either step 412 or step 414, the method 400 may return to decision step 408 if further adjustments are needed, creating an iterative process for weight adjustment. This flowchart may illustrate the sequential steps for assembly and the decision-making process for weight adjustment of the rail band assembly 100. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the method 400 may provide a systematic approach to assembling and adjusting the rail band assembly 100 described in previous figures. The steps of the method 400 may correspond to the various components and assemblies detailed in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3 A, FIG. 3B, and FIG.

[0070] 3C.

[0071] For example, step 402 may involve providing the rail band assembly 100 with the mounting rail 102 as shown in FIG. 1. Step 404 may relate to positioning the plurality of buckle assemblies 104, such as the first buckle assembly 104a and second buckle assembly 104b, on the lower portion of the rail band assembly 100. Step 406 may involve attaching the counter weight assembly 106 to the side of the rail band assembly 100, which may be implemented using various configurations as illustrated in FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, and FIG. 3C. The decision step 408 and subsequent steps 410 and 412 may reflect the modular and adjustable nature of the counter weight assemblies described in the previous figures.

[0072] In some cases, the method 400 may allow for the customization and fine-tuning of the rail band assembly's weight distribution. This may be particularly useful whendifferent equipment or accessories are attached to the rail band assembly 100, requiring different levels of counterbalancing.

[0073] The iterative nature of the method 400, as illustrated by the potential return to decision step 408, may provide flexibility in adjusting the counter weight assembly 106 to achieve optimal balance for the rail band assembly 100 and any attached equipment. This may enhance the usability and effectiveness of the rail band assembly 100 in various applications.

[0074] Thus, the rail band assembly 100 provides several technical advantages. The adjustable counter weight assembly allows for precise balancing of head-mounted equipment, enhancing user comfort and reducing fatigue during extended use. The modular design of the counter weight assembly enables easy customization to accommodate various equipment configurations and user preferences. The multiple attachment mechanisms, including threaded, stacked, and clip-secured options, offer flexibility in weight adjustment and secure connections. The curved design of the mounting rail ensures better conformity to the user's head shape, improving stability and weight distribution. Additionally, the rail band assembly's versatile structure supports a wide range of applications, from military and law enforcement to industrial and medical fields, by allowing attachment of different accessories while maintaining optimal balance. These technical advancements significantly improve the functionality, adaptability, and user experience of head-mounted equipment systems.

[0075] Aspects of the present disclosure are discussed here with reference to flowchart illustrations and block diagrams that depict methods, systems, and apparatus in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. Person having ordinary skill in the art can implement the described functionality in different ways depending on the particular application, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0076] Although the preferred aspects have been detailed here, it should be apparent to those skilled in the relevant field that various modifications, additions, and substitutions can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thesevariations are thus considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as defined in the following claims.

[0077] Features or functionalities described in certain example aspects may be combined and re-combined in or with other example aspects. Additionally, different aspects and elements of the disclosed example aspects may be similarly combined and recombined. Further, some example aspects, individually or collectively, may form components of a larger system where other processes may take precedence or modify their application. Moreover, certain steps may be required before, after, or concurrently with the example aspects disclosed herein. It should be noted that any and all methods and processes disclosed herein can be performed in whole or in part by one or more entities or actors in any manner.

[0078] Although terms like "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and sections, these terms should not necessarily be interpreted as limiting. They are used solely to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another. For example, a "first" element discussed here could be referred to as a "second" element without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0079] The terminology used here is intended to describe specific example aspects and should not be considered as limiting the disclosure. The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "includes," "comprising," and "including," as used herein, indicate the presence of stated features, steps, elements, or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of other features, steps, elements, or components.

[0080] As used herein, the term "or" is intended to be inclusive, meaning that "X employs A or B" would be satisfied by X employing A, B, or both A and B. Unless specified otherwise or clearly understood from the context, this inclusive meaning applies to the term "or."

[0081] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe relevant art. Terms should be interpreted consistently with their common usage in the context of the relevant art and should not be construed in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined here.

[0082] The terms "about" and "substantially," as used herein, refer to a variation of plus or minus 10% from the nominal value. This variation is always included in any given measure.

[0083] In cases where other disclosures are incorporated by reference and there is a conflict with the present disclosure, the present disclosure takes precedence to the extent of the conflict, or to provide a broader disclosure or definition of terms. If two disclosures conflict, the later-dated disclosure will take precedence.

[0084] The use of examples or exemplary language (such as "for example") is intended to illustrate aspects of the invention and should not be seen as limiting the scope unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be interpreted as implying that any non-claimed element is essential to the practice of the invention. While many alterations and modifications of the present invention will likely become apparent to those skilled in the art after reading this description, the specific aspects shown and described by way of illustration are not intended to be limiting in any way.

[0085] A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

WE CLAIMS1. A rail band assembly (100), comprising:a mounting rail (102) extending across a width of the assembly;a plurality of buckle assemblies (104) positioned on a lower portion of the rail band assembly;a counter weight assembly (106) attached to a side of the rail band assembly, wherein the counterweight assembly (106) is configured to be adjustably secured to one of the plurality of buckle assemblies (104), and wherein the counter weight assembly (106) comprises at least one weight component removably attachable to a base component.

2. The rail band assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the counter weight assembly (106) comprises a threaded base (302) configured to attach to one of the plurality of buckle assemblies (104), wherein the threaded base (302) includes internal threading.

3. The rail band assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the at least one weight component comprises a first weight (304) and a second weight (306), each having external threading corresponding to the internal threading of the threaded base (302).

4. The rail band assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first weight (304) is configured to thread into the threaded base (302), and wherein the second weight (306) is configured to thread onto the first weight (304).

5. The rail band assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the counter weight assembly (106) comprises a first attachment (312) and a second attachment (314) positioned above and below the at least one weight component, respectively.

6. The rail band assembly (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the at least one weight component comprises a first weight (316) and a second weight (318)arranged in a stacked configuration between the first attachment (312) and the second attachment (314).

7. The rail band assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the counter weight assembly (106) comprises a base (322) configured to connect to one of the plurality of buckle assemblies (104).

8. The rail band assembly (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the at least one weight component comprises a first weight (324) and a second weight (326) arranged in a vertical stack configuration above the base (322).

9. The rail band assembly (100) as claimed in claim 8, further comprising a first locking clip (328) and a second locking clip (330) configured to secure the first weight (324) and the second weight (326) to the base (322).

10. A method (400) for assembling and adjusting a rail band assembly (100) with a counter weight assembly (106), the method (400) comprising:providing the rail band assembly (100) with a mounting rail (102) extending across a width of the assembly;positioning a plurality of buckle assemblies (104) on a lower portion of the rail band assembly (100);attaching the counter weight assembly (106) to a side of the rail band assembly (100), wherein the counter weight assembly (106) comprises at least one weight component removably attachable to a base component;determining whether adjustment of the counter weight assembly (106) is needed;responsive to determining that adjustment is needed, removing or adding a weight component to the counter weight assembly (106) and securing the weight component to the base component; andsecuring the counter weight assembly (106) to one of the plurality of buckle assemblies (104).