Quick-Detach Firearm Optics Mount with Return-to-Zero
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional firearm accessory mounting systems require re-zeroing every time an accessory is detached and re-mounted, leading to inefficiencies in mounting and detachment processes.
Innovation Solution
A quick disconnect accessory mounting system with a base and top mount design that allows for precise reattachment without losing zero, featuring a friction clamp and set screw assemblies for secure coupling, enabling the base to remain attached while the top mount is removed and re-indexed for quick reattachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If accessories are mounted using conventional Picatinny rail systems with clamps or screws, then secure attachment is achieved, but re-zeroing is required every time an accessory is detached and re-mounted
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into three distinct segments: a base assembly that remains fixed to the firearm, a top mount that can be quickly detached and reattached, and accessories that attach to the top mount. This segmentation allows the base and its zeroing to remain stable while enabling quick removal and reattachment of the top mount and accessories without requiring re-zeroing of the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The base assembly is pre-configured with precision mounting surfaces and alignment features that ensure the top mount returns to the exact same position upon reattachment. This preliminary preparation of the mounting interface eliminates the need for re-zeroing, as the system is designed to automatically return to its original calibrated state.
2Loss of time
If a top mount is designed with sufficient precision to retain zero upon reattachment, then re-zeroing is eliminated, but the mounting system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates self-aligning features and self-indexing mechanisms that automatically ensure proper positioning when the top mount is reattached to the base. The precision is built into the mounting interfaces themselves, which guide the components into the correct alignment without requiring external tools or complex adjustment procedures, thereby reducing operational complexity despite the precision requirements.
3Ease of operation
If a low-profile optics mount is used to keep the user's head low behind the gun shield, then access to iron sights is improved, but the mounting precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The low-profile top mount concentrates precision mounting features at the critical interface between the top mount and base assembly, while maintaining a minimized overall height profile. The precision is localized to the mounting surfaces and alignment features where it is most needed, rather than requiring the entire mount structure to be of high precision, thus achieving both low profile and mounting accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
An accessory mounting system offering quick disconnect and true return-to-zero reattach is described. The mounting system includes a base, which is attached to the host platform, and a top mount onto which one or more accessories can be mounted. The base may be installed with a friction clamp and can remain attached to the host platform while the top mount can be removed and returned while keeping all optics and lasers mounted. The coupling of the base and top mount can provide sufficient precision such that the mounting system can retain zero upon reattach. The top mount may include one or more rail segments, which can enable the mounting of a laser system in conjunction with a top mounted optic, even when the firearm is used in conjunction with a gun shield.