Sling Stud Bipod Mount with Spring Pawls for Quick Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bipods, particularly those attaching to a sling stud, are finicky and difficult to install, prone to mounting errors, and lack a secure and quick attachment method.

Innovation Solution

A bipod design featuring a sling stud clasp assembly with spring-loaded pawls that open and close via a rotating locking mechanism, allowing for easy and secure attachment to a firearm's sling stud, incorporating a pivot holder and rotating knob for vertical movement to grasp and lock the stud.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional sling stud attachment method is used, then the bipod can be mounted to the firearm, but the installation process becomes finicky and difficult with mounting errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded pawls automatically engage with the sling stud when the bipod is attached to the firearm, eliminating the need for manual alignment or complex fastening procedures. The attachment mechanism serves itself by automatically securing to the stud through the spring force that drives the pawls into engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts, or complex clamps) with a simpler spring-loaded pawl mechanism that uses elastic potential energy storage and release to achieve secure attachment. This substitution transforms a multi-step mechanical assembly process into a single-action attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If a secure attachment method is implemented, then the bipod mounting becomes more reliable, but the installation process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidmounting mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: spring elements for force generation, pawls for engagement, and a mounting plate for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall design relatively simple and manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The spring-loaded pawl mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the securing force to attach the bipod, guides the alignment during installation, and maintains constant pressure on the sling stud for reliable retention. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of time

If a quick attachment method is used, then the installation time is reduced, but the mounting security may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation timeVSAvoidmounting security
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The spring elements are pre-loaded during manufacturing to store elastic potential energy, which is then released during attachment to drive the pawls into engagement with the sling stud. This preliminary action ensures that the securing force is already prepared and available, enabling quick attachment without compromising security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The pawls are designed with curved engagement surfaces that naturally guide themselves into the correct orientation as they approach the sling stud during attachment. This geometric design ensures proper alignment and secure engagement occurs automatically as the bipod is brought into position, maintaining reliability while enabling quick installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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

The solution provides a simpler, more secure, and quicker method for attaching a bipod to a sling stud, reducing mounting errors and ensuring a stable firearm interface for accurate shooting.

Implementation Method 1

spring-loaded pawls that open and close via a rotating locking mechanism

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

sling stud locking mechanism coupled to the sling stud clasp assembly... rotating knob having a threading relationship to the sling stud clasp assembly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew threading: Screw

Data Source

PatentEP4060279A1Bipod with sling stud mount
Publication Date: 2022.09.21 MAGPUL INDUSTRIES
  • EP4060279A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4060279A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4060279A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An interface for coupling a bipod to a sling stud of a firearm forend. The interface can include two pawls that pivot to release or grasp the sling stud. The pawls can be biased upward via a detent that rides within a vertical aperture in a pivot holder. The pivot holder can move up and down within a vertical aperture in a mounting plate of the interface, and via this movement the pawls may be forced open or closed. A bottom surface of one or both pawls can include an irregular surface different portions of which interface with a top of the detent depending on a vertical position of the pivot holder within the aperture in the mounting plate.