Holster Lockout Element and Lever Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handgun holsters often fail to provide a secure and quick-release mechanism that prevents accidental disengagement, especially in situations where the gun is subject to movement, and may require time-consuming strap or flap operations for securement and removal.
Innovation Solution
A handgun holster with a retention system featuring a lever and locking projection that engages the trigger guard, allowing easy user access while preventing unauthorized removal, combined with a biasing element for enhanced security and a passive retention system for adjustable friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a retention system with lever and locking projection is used, then the handgun can be quickly removed by the user, but unauthorized removal might become easier
Solution Approach 1:
A lockout element is introduced as an intermediary component between the user and the release lever. This lockout element must be manipulated (removed or actuated) before the release lever can be operated, creating an additional security layer that prevents unauthorized quick removal while preserving legitimate user access
Solution Approach 2:
The retention system is segmented into separate functional components: a passive retention system for initial securing, a release lever for quick removal, and a removable lockout element for security control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, balancing security and ease of operation
2Device complexity
If friction-only retention is used, then the holster structure remains simple, but the handgun may disengage during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The retention function is segmented into two independent systems: a passive friction-based retention system that provides initial securing with minimal structure, and an active locking system with a lever and locking projection that engages the trigger guard to prevent disengagement during movement
Solution Approach 2:
The passive retention system automatically engages the handgun through friction when the handgun is inserted, requiring no additional components or user action. This self-service retention provides baseline security while keeping the overall structure simple
3Reliability
If strap or flap arrangements are used, then the handgun is securely retained, but the time required for securement and removal increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex mechanical operations of fastening and unfastening straps or flaps are replaced with a simple lever-pivot mechanism. The release lever pivots to move the locking projection out of engagement with the trigger guard, allowing rapid handgun removal without the time-consuming strap operations
Solution Approach 2:
The locking projection is pre-positioned to automatically engage the trigger guard when the handgun is inserted and the lever is in the retained position. This preliminary locking action occurs automatically during holstering, eliminating the need for additional securement steps required by strap systems
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 securely retains the handgun with a quick-release mechanism that is easily operated by the user, preventing accidental disengagement and reducing the time required for securement and removal, while maintaining a simple and reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element for enhanced security
Implementation Method 2
Some holsters rely solely on friction to secure the handgun in place
Data Source
AI summary
A holster for a handgun, having at least some of an at least partial cavity; a lever having a thumb button portion and an engagement portion, wherein the lever includes a locking projection extending from at least a portion of the engagement portion, wherein the lever is pivotally attached or coupled to at least a portion of the holster, approximately between the thumb button portion and the engagement portion; and a lockout element, wherein at least a portion of the lockout element is positionable to block movement of the lever to keep the lever from being pivoted to a disengaged position.