Spring-Loaded Holster Attachment for Tool-Free Secure Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for attaching and detaching items like belt loops, holster backers, and magazine pouches to firearm holsters require tools and fasteners, which can be inconvenient and prone to loss.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus using a first member with an axle member and a second member featuring a slot and cylindrical channel, where a spring-biased grip secures the axle member within the channel for easy attachment and detachment without tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If traditional fasteners (screws, bolts, nuts) are used to attach items to holsters, then secure attachment is achieved, but tool availability and convenience deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidtool availability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system uses a spring-loaded grip mechanism that automatically engages with the axle member when the item is inserted into the holster. The spring force provides continuous pressure to maintain the attached state without requiring tools for tightening or adjustment, making the system self-servicing once assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The invention extracts the tool requirement from the attachment process by replacing screwdrivers and fasteners with a spring-loaded grip mechanism. The attachment can be secured by simply inserting the item into the holster, eliminating the need to carry or use external tools during the attachment operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Strength

If traditional fasteners (screws, bolts, nuts) are used to attach items to holsters, then secure attachment is achieved, but risk of loss deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidfastener retention
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the fastener function into the holster structure itself. The spring-loaded grip mechanism is integrated into the holster body, and the axle member is integrated into the attachment item. This integration eliminates loose fasteners that could be lost, as all components remain attached to their respective items throughout the attachment and detachment process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If spring-loaded grip mechanism is used for tool-free attachment, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment convenienceVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system is segmented into two distinct components: the first member (attachment item) with the axle member, and the second member (holster) with the cylindrical channel and spring-loaded grip. This segmentation allows each component to have a simple, focused function while achieving complex attachment behavior through their interaction, reducing the complexity within each individual part.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables quick and tool-free attachment and detachment of items to holsters, enhancing convenience and reducing the risk of lost fasteners.

Implementation Method 1

a grip operatively associated with a spring and moveable between a first extended position and a second compressed position, said grip operatively associated with said third portion of said axle member of said first member and biased by said spring to said first extended position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20220364584A1Method and apparatus for selectively attaching a first item to a second item
Publication Date: 2022.11.17 BLADE TECH INDS
  • US20220364584A1 patent drawing
  • US20220364584A1 patent drawing
  • US20220364584A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An attaching apparatus includes a first member which has an axle member. A second member has a slot having a center plane and a cylindrical channel having a longitudinal centerline. The longitudinal centerline of the cylindrical channel lies within said center plane of said slot The second member has a grip operatively associated with a spring and moveable between a first extended position and a second compressed position. The grip can selectively secure the axle member of said first member within the cylindrical chamber.