Holster Retractor System with Integrated Spring Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holster systems do not effectively prevent loss or damage of gear or instruments when they become dislodged from the holster or dropped, and integrating a retracting device into the holster poses challenges such as line wear issues and difficulty in accessing the connector.
Innovation Solution
A holster retractor system with an integral retracting device, featuring a housing with an internal spring and a line that extends from the housing, includes a stop to prevent the line from fully retracting, and an attachment mechanism to secure the gear or instrument, allowing it to be easily inserted or removed while providing a security tether to prevent loss or damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the retracting device is placed behind the holster with the line entering the bottom of the holster and wrapping 180-degrees upward through the holster, then the gear or instrument can be tethered during use, but significant line wear issues occur and the connector becomes difficult to access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the retracting device from its conventional position behind the holster and relocates it to an integrated position within the holster structure. Specifically, the retractor is positioned to engage with the gear directly at the holster opening, eliminating the need for the line to wrap 180 degrees through the holster. This extraction of the retractor from its harmful position resolves the line wear issue while maintaining tethering security.
2Reliability
If extra length is added to the holster to fit both the gear and the retracting device, then the gear can be secured inside the holster, but the added length is undesirable and increases holster size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by integrating the retracting device within the existing holster structure rather than adding it as a separate external component. The retractor is positioned to nest within the holster's internal volume, allowing the gear to be secured by the retractor's line without requiring additional holster length. This nested integration maintains the compact size of the holster while providing the necessary securing mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the retracting device is integrated into the holster, then the system provides both holstering and retracting functions in one unit, but the connector becomes buried and difficult to grab
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a specific access feature at the holster opening where the line exits. A reinforced opening or eyelet is provided at the front of the holster where the line emerges, making this local area suitable for grabbing and manipulating the connector. This localized access point maintains the integrated functionality of the holster-retractor system while solving the connector accessibility problem.
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 system securely holds and protects the gear or instrument, minimizing dangling and preventing loss or damage by automatically retracting the line back into the holster when not in use, reducing line wear and enhancing usability.
Implementation Method 1
A retractor is included that is integral to the holster/pouch, with the retractor comprising a housing with an internal spring, and a line capable of extending from the housing. The spring is arranged to urge retraction of the line back in the housing
Data Source
AI summary
Holstering retractor devices or systems for securing a device or instrument when not in use, such that the instrument does not have to be held or slid into a pocket. The systems are coupled with a retracting device, integrated into the holster, such that if said instrument or device pops out of holster, or is dropped while in use, it is not lost or damaged. The present invention is also directed to systems utilizing the holster retractors, such as vest system having the holster retractor mounted to the vests.