Holster System with Universal Connector and Ambidextrous Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional holsters face issues with secure retention during movements, unexpected release due to spring compression, time-consuming unfastening, limited compatibility with various connectors, and lack of ambidextrous functionality, making them unsuitable for quick and versatile weapon access.
Innovation Solution
A holster system featuring a support frame with adjustable fastener band, universal connector compatibility, and ambidextrous design, allowing easy and quick attachment and detachment of weapons using a spacer with apertures for various connectors and an attachment strap for secure and versatile mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If friction is used to secure the weapon in the holster, then the holster structure is simple, but the retention reliability fails during certain movements
Solution Approach 1:
The holster is divided into multiple functional segments: a friction-based holding surface for initial retention, an over-center spring mechanism for secure locking, and additional straps or flaps for enhanced confinement. This segmentation allows each component to contribute to overall reliability without requiring complete structural redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The holster incorporates a dynamic over-center spring mechanism that automatically adjusts to weapon insertion and locking. The spring-loaded design provides progressive engagement, where the weapon is initially held by friction then progressively secured by the spring mechanism as it transitions to the locked position, maintaining reliability during movement.
2Reliability
If an over-center design with springs is used to secure the gun, then weapon retention is improved, but the springs can become compressed causing unexpected release
Solution Approach 1:
The holster incorporates pre-compressed springs and cushioning elements positioned to absorb excessive force before it can compress the main retention spring. This beforehand cushioning prevents unexpected release by distributing impact forces and protecting the critical spring mechanism from premature compression.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring parameters (coil density, wire diameter, free length) are optimized to provide adequate retention force while maintaining durability over extended use. The spring is designed with specific mechanical properties that balance between providing sufficient locking force and resisting permanent compression from repeated weapon insertions and movements.
3Reliability
If straps, flaps, or hood enclosures are added to secure the gun, then weapon retention is improved, but unfastening takes unacceptable time
Solution Approach 1:
The holster design includes pre-positioned release mechanisms and strategically placed straps that can be quickly disengaged. The flaps and enclosures are designed with quick-release features or magnetic closures that allow rapid unfastening, and the weapon is pre-oriented for efficient extraction, minimizing the time required to access the weapon when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The critical retention function is extracted from complex multi-component systems into simplified mechanisms. Instead of requiring multiple straps and flaps to be unfastened, the design isolates the primary retention function to a single spring-loaded mechanism or quick-release lever that can be disengaged with one motion, dramatically reducing unfastening time while maintaining security during normal use.
4Ease of manufacture
If the holster is designed for a single connector type, then manufacturing is simplified, but versatility with various connectors is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The holster incorporates a universal mounting interface with standardized attachment points and connector receptacles that can accommodate multiple connector types. The design includes adaptable mounting hardware and adjustable positioning features that allow the same holster body to securely hold weapons with different connector configurations, achieving multi-functionality without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.
5Ease of manufacture
If the holster is designed for right-side or left-side draw only, then manufacturing and orientation are simplified, but ambidextrous functionality is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The holster employs asymmetric design elements that can be configured for either right or left-side draw. The weapon channel, trigger guard opening, and retention mechanism are positioned to accommodate ambidextrous use, with adjustable components that allow the holster to be properly oriented for either hand preference while maintaining consistent manufacturing processes.
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
The presently disclosed subject matter is generally directed to a holster system that allows for quick and secure release of a weapon, while also allowing attachment to a wide variety of connectors. The holster system comprises a frame that interacts with and safeguards a weapon (e.g., a gun). The frame includes a fastener band that acts as a trigger guard and releasably secures the weapon to the holster. The frame further includes a barrel plug that acts as a vertical rest and stabilizer when the weapon is holstered, keeping the weapon secured. The frame cooperates with a spacer to allow attachment to a wide variety of connectors. The holster system enables the weapon to be securely maintained when not in use, yet available if needed by the user. The holster can be configured with an ambidextrous feature, allowing both left-hand and right-hand weapon draws.