Holster Retention Device One-Step Quick Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handgun holster locking mechanisms are prone to inadvertent unlocking, require suboptimal two-step drawing procedures, and are hindered by clothing and body armor interference, leading to compromised access and stability during urgent situations.
Innovation Solution
A U-shaped hood with a translational and rotational mechanism, featuring a trigger plate and spring system that allows for one-step access without prior downward pushing, and a safety lever for preventing unwanted rotation, with a guide path and locking notch for secure engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hood/strap locking mechanism is used to secure the handgun, then the handgun is securely retained in the holster, but the device requires a two-step drawing procedure that compromises speed and stability in urgent situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the downward pushing motion and forward rotating motion into a single integrated movement. The trigger plate mechanism allows the hood to rotate forward directly when the trigger is pulled, eliminating the need for separate downward and forward motions. This merging of motions resolves the contradiction by maintaining secure retention while enabling one-step rapid access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic trigger plate mechanism that rotates about a pivot point, allowing the locking state to transition dynamically from locked to unlocked. The spring-loaded boss on the trigger plate provides dynamic engagement with the locking notch, enabling rapid state change during the drawing operation without compromising retention security.
2Device complexity
If the hood/strap is positioned with pivot point beneath it, then the structure is compact, but the leading edge draws downward during rotation requiring additional clearance and slowing access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the pivot point from beneath the hood to the rearward end of the hood. This dimensional relocation changes the rotation geometry, allowing the leading edge to move forward and upward during rotation rather than downward. The guide path constrains the motion trajectory, ensuring smooth forward rotation without the need for additional clearance.
3Ease of operation
If release buttons are made accessible for quick operation, then drawing speed is improved, but the mechanism becomes vulnerable to inadvertent unlocking by impact or raking motions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides localized thumb access to the trigger plate at its forward end, allowing quick operation only at this specific location. The guide path and locking notch provide localized mechanical interference that prevents rotation unless the trigger plate is actively pulled. This localized quality approach maintains security against impact while enabling rapid intentional operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded boss on the trigger plate provides preliminary engagement with the locking notch, creating a pre-loaded mechanical lock that resists inadvertent unlocking. The spring force maintains constant engagement pressure, requiring deliberate trigger activation to overcome this preliminary anti-action and initiate rotation.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If clothing and body armor are present between the holster and wearer, then protection is provided, but access to release mechanisms is restricted and operation is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger plate acts as an intermediary element that transmits the user's pulling motion to the hood rotation mechanism. By positioning the trigger plate's thumb engagement area at the forward end, the mechanism allows operation through intermediate layers of clothing and armor. The trigger plate mediates between the user's hand and the internal locking mechanism, maintaining accessibility despite external obstructions.
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 secure one-step access to the handgun, reducing the risk of inadvertent unlocking and interference from clothing or body armor, while maintaining user stability and control.
Implementation Method 1
A spring exerts a yieldable force on the trigger plate urging its boss into the locking notch when the hood is in its rearward position
Data Source
AI summary
A quick release device for preventing unintended withdrawal of a handgun from a holster comprises a generally U-shaped hood with mutually spaced legs spanned by a bridge. The legs are arranged to straddle the holster, with the hood being rotatable about a fixed first axis between a rearward position at which the bridge overlies the holster opening, and a forward position at which the bridge is removed from the holster opening. At least one interior side plate is fixed with respect to the holster at a location adjacent to one of the hood legs. The interior side plate defines a guide path bordered by and extending forwardly from a locking notch. A trigger plate is connected to the hood leg for rotation about a second axis parallel to the first axis. The trigger plate is rotatable about the second axis to disengage the boss from the locking notch, thereby freeing the boss for movement along the guide path as the hood is rotated about the first axis from its rearward position to its forward position.