Articulating Weapon Sight Mount with Link Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weapon accessory mounts do not efficiently allow for quick alignment and repositioning of accessories like magnifiers relative to a scope, making it difficult to switch between use and storage positions.
Innovation Solution
A mount with a base portion and an upper portion interconnected by links, allowing articulation between a use position above the base and a storage position to the side, featuring a locking element and a spring for secure positioning and easy transition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an accessory is mounted on a weapon using a fixed mount, then the accessory remains stable and secure, but the accessory cannot be quickly repositioned or removed
Solution Approach 1:
The mount transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic articulated structure with links that allow movement between use and storage positions. The upper portion can articulate relative to the base portion through the links, enabling quick repositioning while maintaining secure mounting through the locking element when in use position.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring automatically biases the upper portion toward the storage position, and the locking element automatically engages to secure the upper portion in the use position. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention to maintain secure mounting while enabling quick transitions between positions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an accessory is mounted in a fixed position above the weapon, then it remains aligned with the scope, but it cannot be moved to the side for storage
Solution Approach 1:
The mount is divided into separate components: a base portion, an upper portion, and intermediate links. This segmentation allows the upper portion to articulate independently relative to the base portion, providing position flexibility while keeping each component relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated structure with links enables the upper portion to dynamically change position between use and storage configurations. This dynamic capability provides adaptability without requiring a completely complex mechanism, as the links provide straightforward rotational movement.
3Reliability
If a locking element is added to secure the upper portion in the use position, then the accessory remains stable, but the transition between positions requires additional action
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to automatically engage with the upper portion when it is in the use position, and the spring automatically biases the system toward the storage position. This self-service mechanism maintains stability without requiring manual intervention to lock or unlock, preserving quick transition capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring acts as an intermediary that stores energy and automatically drives the upper portion toward the storage position. This intermediary mechanism provides the force needed for transition without requiring additional manual action, while the locking element provides automatic securing in the use position.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables quick and secure movement of accessories between aligned and storage positions, enhancing usability and accessibility on weapons like rifles.
Implementation Method 1
Some versions of a mount further include a spring for biasing the upper portion towards the storage position
Data Source
AI summary
A mount for mounting an accessory to a weapon has a base portion and an upper portion each with fore-aft axes. A first and a second link interconnect the upper portion and the base portion for articulation between a use position and a storage position. The upper portion in the use position is disposed above the base portion and the upper portion in the storage position is disposed to a side of the base portion. The fore-aft axis of the base portion and the fore-aft axis of the upper portion are parallel to one another in both the use position and in the storage position.