Firearm Accessory Mounting Interface Using Elongated Slot Fasteners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firearm accessory mounting interfaces, such as Picatinny rail and KEYMOD systems, are cumbersome, prone to snagging, weighty, and susceptible to debris accumulation, and can be difficult to install, while also requiring complex manufacturing processes that are not suitable for polymeric materials.
Innovation Solution
A firearm accessory mounting interface comprising a first elongated fastener, a second fastener, and an elongated slot that allows clearance in an open position but locks in a closed position, preventing rotation and securing the accessory to the firearm, thereby minimizing weight, snagging, and debris accumulation, and simplifying installation and manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Picatinny rail or KEYMOD systems are used for mounting accessories, then accessory mounting capability is improved, but weight increases and the structure becomes prone to snagging and debris accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the mounting function from traditional rail systems by using an elongated slot with fasteners that can be installed directly into the firearm body, eliminating the need for extensive rail structures. This reduces weight while maintaining accessory mounting capability through a minimalist approach that only includes essential mounting elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a thin elongated slot structure instead of bulky rail systems. The slot is a minimal structural element that provides mounting functionality without the mass of traditional rails, effectively using a thin film-like approach to achieve the mounting function with minimal material.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional rail systems are used, then accessory mounting is enabled, but the structure becomes uncomfortable to grasp and prone to snagging on clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the problematic rail structure from the firearm surface and replaces it with discrete fasteners installed through elongated slots. This extraction eliminates the protruding elements that cause snagging and discomfort, while preserving the essential mounting function through the fastener-screw-nut mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of covering the entire firearm surface with rails, the patent applies mounting features only locally where accessories need to be attached. The elongated slots are positioned precisely at mounting locations, providing functionality only where needed while leaving the rest of the firearm surface smooth and comfortable.
3Weight of moving object
If modular rails are used to reduce weight, then weight is decreased, but installation becomes difficult and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mounting slot and fastener holes into a single integrated elongated slot feature that is molded directly into the firearm body. This merging eliminates the need for separate rail components and simplifies installation to a single-step fastener insertion process, making the system both lightweight and easy to install.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongated slot serves multiple functions: it provides the mounting aperture, defines the fastener path, and integrates the mounting structure directly into the firearm body. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate rail components and simplifies both manufacturing and installation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If Picatinny rail systems are used, then accessory mounting is enabled, but debris accumulation in slots makes installation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the mounting function from enclosed rail slots that trap debris and replaces it with open elongated slots that allow debris to pass through freely. The fastener holes are positioned to clear the slot, creating an open pathway that prevents debris accumulation and facilitates easy installation even in dirty environments.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved firearm accessory mounting interface is herein disclosed. The interface can include one or more sets of first and second fasteners that interface through an elongated slot in a firearm in order to mount a firearm accessory to a firearm. The second fastener can be shaped and sized to clear the elongated slot and can, upon clearing the elongated slot, be pivoted to an oblique orientation relative to the elongated slot so that the second fastener cannot be retracted. The first fastener can continue to be turned thus drawing the first and second fasteners toward each other and locking the accessory to the firearm.