Holster Optical Sight Protector with Spring Tab
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional firearm holsters fail to effectively protect optical sights from debris, as the design creates a funnel that directs dirt and dust onto the sight, and existing solutions either require a two-step process to uncover the sight or are not durable enough to seal the sight from environmental exposure.
Innovation Solution
A firearm holster with an integrated, automatically opening optical sight protector that pivots to cover the sight when the firearm is holstered and automatically uncovers when drawn, utilizing a polymeric tensioned spring tab to maintain a tight seal and prevent debris from reaching the sight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the holster is designed to accommodate a handgun with an attached single point sight, then the holster can support modern optical sight configurations, but the shape of the top of the holster creates a funnel that directs dirt, dust, lint, fluids, and other debris onto the optic
Solution Approach 1:
The top of the holster is segmented into two functional zones: a sloped portion that directs debris away from the optic, and a vertical portion that provides protection. This segmentation allows the holster to simultaneously accommodate the optical sight while preventing debris accumulation through the sloped geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The sloped portion acts as an intermediary element between the external environment and the optic. It intercepts and redirects debris (dirt, dust, lint, fluids) before it can reach the optic, serving as a protective mediator that preserves optic clarity without requiring direct contact with the sight.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a cover is attached by a lanyard to the holster that is pulled off when the user removes the handgun, then the optic is protected during storage, but the user must manually remove the cover, adding a second step to weapon readiness
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed to automatically perform its protective function and then self-remove during the draw operation. As the handgun is withdrawn from the holster, the cover remains in place during storage but is automatically pulled away by the movement itself, eliminating the need for manual removal and reducing draw time to a single motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is preliminarily positioned to protect the optic during holster storage. The design ensures that the protective action is already in place before draw, and the withdrawal motion automatically transitions the cover from protective position to non-interfering position, preparing the weapon for immediate use.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If securing straps or rotating locking devices are used to shield the optic, then some protection is provided, but these devices cannot seal the single point sight from debris over extended periods or in various environments
Solution Approach 1:
The cover utilizes a flexible, form-fitting design that conformally contacts the optical sight and holster interface. This flexible shell creates an effective seal against debris (dirt, dust, lint, fluids) that maintains protection over extended periods and across various environmental conditions, overcoming the limitations of rigid straps or locking devices.
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 solution provides continuous protection for the optical sight by automatically opening when the firearm is withdrawn, ensuring the sight remains clear of debris and ready for use, enhancing weapon readiness and reducing draw times.
Implementation Method 1
a polymeric tensioned spring tab to bias the protector in the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
Holster carrying a firearm with an optical sight mounted thereon, holster having an open top, inner and outer sidewalls with parallel extension portions, a top wall portion affixed to the extension. A protector includes a U-shaped body with an upper wall, spaced depending side walls, a rear wall and a unitary forward spring tab. The side walls are respectively pivotally connected to the extension portions and movable between closed and open positions. When closed, all the protector walls, the extension portions and the top wall portion substantially enclose a rear part of the sight, including the lens thereof, to inhibit debris from entering. The polymeric tab engages the top wall portion and biases the protector closed which is overcome automatically by forcible withdrawal of the firearm.