Multi-Platform Foregrip KeyMod M-LOK Compatibility

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Shooters face a challenge in using angled foregrips due to the limited compatibility between KeyMod and M-LOK mounting platforms, leading to the need for separate accessories, which can be costly and inconvenient for users transitioning to the M-LOK platform.

Innovation Solution

A multi-platform ergonomic foregrip design that features a base for engagement with handguard rails, with vertical and angled engagement surfaces for ergonomic positioning, and a partially curved, partially horizontal intermediate section, allowing secure attachment to both KeyMod and M-LOK platforms through positioning lugs and fastener holes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a foregrip is designed for KeyMod platform, then it provides proven strength and stability, but it cannot be utilized on M-LOK platform

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidplatform compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The foregrip base is designed with a universal mounting structure that incorporates both KeyMod and M-LOK engagement features, allowing a single foregrip to function on multiple mounting platforms. The base includes positioning lugs and fastener holes configured to engage with either KeyMod or M-LOK rails, eliminating the need for separate accessories for each platform while maintaining attachment reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If shooters purchase separate accessories for each platform, then platform-specific functionality is achieved, but cost and convenience are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplatform compatibilityVSAvoidcost and availability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the mounting capabilities of KeyMod and M-LOK platforms into a single foregrip base design. By integrating both mounting interfaces into one component, the invention eliminates the need for shooters to purchase and maintain separate foregrips for each platform, thereby reducing overall cost and simplifying accessory management while preserving the functional benefits of both platforms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If M-LOK platform is adopted, then modern mounting advantages are gained, but compatibility with existing KeyMod accessories is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemounting advantagesVSAvoidaccessory compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The foregrip base acts as an intermediary component that bridges the compatibility gap between M-LOK and KeyMod platforms. It incorporates mounting features that can engage with either platform type, allowing users to take advantage of M-LOK's modern mounting benefits while retaining the ability to use existing KeyMod accessories through the same base structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9891020B2Multi-platform ergonomic foregrip

Publication Date: 2018.02.13 STRIKE IP LLC

AI summary

A foregrip for use with a firearm having a handguard mounting platform. The foregrip comprises a unitary body attachable to a handguard and configured with a front end, an intermediate section and a rear end. A front end designed to form a vertical engagement portion, an intermediate section designed to be partially curved engagement section and extending from the front end to the rear end, and a rear end designed to form a top portion and a lower portion. The top portion forming a first angled engagement portion, and the lower forming a second angled engagement portion. An attachment surface provides a method for mounting the foregrip onto a firearm handguard.