Quick Release Holster with Simultaneous Dual Latch Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handgun holsters often have complex and unreliable retention mechanisms that can become unlocked during violent attacks, and lack a secure, rapid reholstering solution that allows users to automatically relock the handgun without visible actuation.
Innovation Solution
A quick release holster assembly featuring a thumb-activated release device that simultaneously actuates the ejection port restraint and hood restraint, enabling rapid handgun withdrawal and secure reholstering, with a ramped contact surface for facilitated re-holstering and automatic locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple retention mechanisms are used to secure the handgun, then the security against unauthorized withdrawal is improved, but the device complexity and reliability deteriorate due to complicated mechanisms that can become unlocked in violent attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is divided into two independent restraint mechanisms: a first restraint mechanism with a first latch that engages the ejection port, and a second restraint mechanism with a second latch that engages the trigger guard. This segmentation allows each mechanism to function independently, reducing overall complexity while maintaining enhanced security through multiple retention points.
Solution Approach 2:
A release device acts as an intermediary mechanism that simultaneously actuates both latch mechanisms. The release device includes a first portion that actuates the first latch and a second portion that actuates the second latch, providing a unified control interface for releasing both retention mechanisms through a single user action, thereby simplifying operation while maintaining security.
2Reliability
If a secure retention mechanism is used to prevent removal of the handgun, then the security is improved, but the speed of withdrawal deteriorates due to complex locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The release device merges the actuation of both restraint mechanisms into a single simultaneous action. When the release device is actuated, it simultaneously releases the first latch engaging the ejection port and the second latch engaging the trigger guard, allowing rapid withdrawal without sequential unlocking steps that would delay the draw.
Solution Approach 2:
The release device is designed with pre-positioned latch engagement surfaces and biasing mechanisms that prepare the system for rapid release. The latches are biased to engage securely during normal retention, but the release device incorporates pre-configured actuation surfaces that allow immediate simultaneous release when needed, minimizing the time required for withdrawal.
3Speed
If a rapid release mechanism is used to allow fast withdrawal, then the speed of withdrawal is improved, but the security against unauthorized removal deteriorates due to visible and accessible actuation points
Solution Approach 1:
The release device serves as a controlled intermediary between the user and the retention mechanisms. It provides a designated interface that must be intentionally actuated to release both latches simultaneously. The device includes a cover or protective element that shields the actuation mechanism from accidental access while maintaining a clear path for the authorized user's thumb during the draw motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The release device incorporates localized features such as a cover element positioned to protect the actuation mechanism from unauthorized access. The cover can be transparent or translucent to allow visual confirmation of the release state while physically blocking accidental actuation. The actuation surfaces are specifically positioned to be accessible only to the user's thumb during the natural draw motion, providing localized security without compromising the rapid release function.
4Ease of operation
If a single release device actuates both restraints, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need to coordinate multiple latch mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The release device merges the control of two independent latch mechanisms into a single integrated component. The first portion of the release device actuates the first latch while the second portion actuates the second latch, allowing both retention mechanisms to be released through one unified user motion. This merging simplifies the user interface and operation while the internal coordination of the merged device manages the complexity of coordinating multiple latches.
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
The holster allows for secure handgun retention and rapid, intuitive withdrawal with a master grip, while enabling automatic relocking and reholstering, enhancing user safety and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing mechanism that biases the ejection port restraint toward the obstruction position
Implementation Method 2
the hood restraint biased toward the non-obstruction position
Data Source
AI summary
A holster assembly includes a holster having an interior shaped to receive a handgun, and an entrance. An ejection port restraint pivotally connected to the holster includes a latch and is biased toward an obstruction position for engaging the latch with the ejection port of the handgun. A hood restraint pivotally connected to the holster body adjacent the entrance is configured to pivot between a non-obstruction position to permit the handgun to enter and to be drawn, and an obstruction position at which the hood restraint at least partially blocks the entrance. The hood restraint is biased toward the non-obstruction position. A release device mounted on the holster body is configured to actuate both the ejection port restraint and the hood restraint, each toward the respective non-obstruction position thereof, in response to a single movement by a user to allow the handgun to be withdrawn from the holster.