Dual Pivot Drop Thigh Mount for Stable, Comfortable Holster Carry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing holsters for carrying implements like handguns on the thigh lack versatility, stability, and secure attachment during physical activities, failing to provide easy access and adequate protection while being comfortably worn for extended periods.

Innovation Solution

A dual pivot drop thigh mount assembly with a rigid drop thigh plate, drop bar, and adapter system that allows independent pivoting at two points, securely attaching to the user's clothing or gear, featuring adjustable straps and multiple mounting points for holsters and accessories.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a holster is worn on the thigh for extended periods, then comfort is improved, but stability and security during physical activities deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecomfortVSAvoidstability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic suspension system with pivot points that allow the holster to move and adapt to the wearer's body movements. The suspension includes a hip strap and thigh strap connected by a pivot, enabling the holster to dynamically adjust its position and maintain stability during physical activities while remaining comfortable for extended wear.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a holster is made rigid and stable for repeated draws, then reliability is improved, but comfort during extended wear deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestabilityVSAvoidcomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the holster system into multiple segments: a rigid holster body for stability, a flexible suspension system with pivot points, and adjustable straps. This segmentation allows the rigid holster to maintain stability for repeated draws while the flexible suspension and straps adapt to body contours for extended comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If a holster provides secure attachment during physical activities, then reliability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal attachment system where the suspension with pivot points and adjustable straps serves multiple functions: securing the holster during physical activities, allowing comfortable extended wear, and enabling easy adjustment. This multi-functional design achieves secure attachment without excessive complexity.

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

4Ease of operation

If a holster allows versatile access to the implement, then ease of operation is improved, but protection of the implement and user deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveaccessVSAvoidprotection
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The dynamic suspension system with pivot points enables the holster to move with the wearer's body, providing versatile access to the implement from different angles and positions while maintaining secure retention and protection. The flexibility of the suspension allows easy draw access without compromising the rigid holster's protective function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12429303B2Dual pivot drop thigh mount
Publication Date: 2025.09.30 SAFARILAND LLC
  • US12429303B2 patent drawing
  • US12429303B2 patent drawing
  • US12429303B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A drop thigh mount assembly is used to mount and to support an implement (such as a handgun, for example) or an implement holster (such as a handgun holster, for example), or the like (e.g., various pouches, holders, accessories, etc.), in a variety of configurations. A mounting plate of the drop thigh mount is configured to be worn at a user's thigh and the mount includes at least two pivot points for articulation.