Cam-Based Accessory Mounting Interface for Handguards
Solution Overview
Problem
Current mounting interface systems for guns lack efficient and secure mechanisms for attaching accessories to handguards, failing to provide a reliable and tool-free attachment method that can withstand recoil and heat.
Innovation Solution
A mounting interface system featuring a cam mechanism with locking mechanisms that rotate laterally to engage with handguard openings, allowing for secure attachment and detachment of accessories without tools, utilizing a pinion gear and rack gear system for enhanced stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mounting interfaces are used, then accessories can be attached to handguards, but the attachment process requires tools and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional threaded mechanical fastening systems with a cam-based locking mechanism. The cam, when rotated, uses geometric transformation to directly lock the mounting interface to the handguard opening, eliminating the need for tools and significantly reducing attachment time.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting interface transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic cam-based system. The cam mechanism allows the mounting interface to be quickly inserted and locked by simple rotational motion, making the attachment process rapid and tool-free while maintaining secure connection under recoil forces.
2Reliability
If traditional mounting interfaces are used, then accessories can be secured to handguards, but the mechanism is complex and requires multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple traditional mounting components (screws, nuts, washers) into a single integrated cam mechanism. The cam structure itself performs both the locking and securing functions, reducing the number of parts while maintaining reliable attachment that can withstand recoil forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the locking action, secures the mounting interface to the handguard, and maintains consistent pressure to prevent loosening under recoil. This multi-functional design reduces complexity while ensuring reliable attachment.
3Ease of operation
If traditional mounting interfaces are used, then accessories can be attached, but the process requires tools for installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the mounting interface by using a cam rotation mechanism that transforms small rotational motion into large lateral displacement of the locking surfaces. This allows tool-free operation while generating sufficient locking force to maintain strong attachment under recoil conditions.
4Strength
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then accessories can withstand recoil forces, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism employs asymmetric geometry where the cam profile is designed with specific curvature and angle variations. This asymmetric shape allows the cam to generate strong lateral locking forces during rotation while requiring minimal actuation force, achieving high recoil resistance without proportionally increasing mechanism complexity.
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 system provides a secure, tool-free attachment of accessories to handguards, effectively managing recoil and heat while allowing for easy installation and removal, enhancing user convenience and durability.
Implementation Method 1
a cam coupled to the body and rotatable about an axis. The mounting interface includes a first locking mechanism positioned in contact with a first arm of the cam and configured to, in response to rotation of the cam in a first rotational direction, move in a first lateral direction
Implementation Method 2
a pinion gear coupled to the body and rotatable about an axis. The mounting interface includes a first rack gear positioned to engage with the pinion gear and configured to, in response to rotation of the pinion gear, move laterally in a first direction
Data Source
AI summary
Examples of the present disclosure include a mounting interface with a body and a cam coupled to the body and rotatable about an axis. The mounting interface includes a first locking mechanism in contact with a first arm of the cam and configured to, in response to rotation of the cam in a first rotational direction, move in a first lateral direction and engage with a first end of a first opening of a handguard of a gun. The mounting interface includes a second locking mechanism configured to, in response to rotation of the cam in the first rotational direction, move in a second lateral direction opposite the first lateral direction and engage with at least one of a second end of the first opening opposite to the first end of the opening and an end of a second opening of the handguard.