Aperture Array Pattern for Multi-Directional Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The MOLLE-compatible modular attachment systems are limited to vertical attachment of accessories, restricting flexibility in configuration and reconfiguration of pouches, pockets, and holders on carriers like vests and backpacks.
Innovation Solution
A modular attachment aperture array with a repeating pattern of apertures arranged in rows and columns, allowing accessories to be attached vertically, horizontally, or diagonally, using an aperture array layer with apertures that are equally spaced and offset to accommodate various orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If MOLLE-compatible modular attachment systems are used, then accessories can be attached to carriers, but only in vertical orientation which restricts configuration flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional vertical webbing system to a two-dimensional aperture array system. The apertures are arranged in multiple rows and columns, enabling accessories to be attached in vertical, horizontal, and diagonal orientations. This dimensional expansion directly resolves the technical contradiction by providing multi-directional attachment capability while maintaining a relatively simple grid-based structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The aperture array system serves multiple attachment functions within a single structure. The same aperture pattern enables vertical, horizontal, and diagonal attachment orientations, making the system universal for different accessory configurations. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by eliminating the need for separate attachment systems for different orientations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If MOLLE webbing system is used, then accessories can be attached, but reconfiguration is limited due to fixed vertical orientation
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging apertures in a two-dimensional grid with multiple rows and columns, the system enables accessories to be attached in various orientations including vertical, horizontal, and diagonal. This dimensional expansion allows users to reconfigure accessories more freely without being constrained to a single vertical orientation, thus improving reconfigurability while maintaining operational simplicity through the consistent aperture pattern.
3Adaptability or versatility
If vertically-spaced webbing elements are used, then attachment is achieved, but attachment spacing is fixed and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-direction vertical webbing arrangement to a two-dimensional aperture grid with multiple rows and columns. This allows attachment points to be distributed across both horizontal and vertical dimensions, providing variable spacing options in multiple directions. The regular grid pattern maintains structural simplicity while enabling flexible attachment spacing through the multi-dimensional aperture arrangement.
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment aperture array pattern having an aperture array layer having a plurality of spaced apart array apertures formed therethrough, wherein the array apertures are arranged in a repeating sequence of spaced rows of array apertures and spaced columns of array apertures, wherein the plurality of spaced apart array apertures are arranged in a repeating sequence of equally spaced rows of the array apertures and equally spaced columns of the array apertures, wherein each of the array apertures is equally offset from each adjacent array aperture in each row of array apertures, wherein each row of array apertures is formed an equal distance from each adjacent row of array apertures, and wherein at least a portion of the array apertures of a first column of array apertures overlap at least a portion of the array apertures of an adjacent, second column of array apertures.