Low-Profile Firearm Rail Adaptor With Snap-Fit Grooves

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing firearm rail mounting systems create bulk, which can interfere with the sleek design and functionality of firearms.

Innovation Solution

A low profile rail mounting system using a flexible adaptor with wing sections and grooves that snap onto the rail, secured by fasteners and alignment bosses, providing a snap-fit and interference taper fit to minimize protrusion and secure accessories.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If traditional rigid mounting hardware is used, then secure attachment is achieved, but bulk is increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidmounting hardware bulk

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting hardware uses a flexible adaptor made of polymer material that can be snapped into position over the rail. The flexibility allows the adaptor to deform during installation and secure attachment while maintaining a thin, low-profile structure that minimizes bulk when mounted.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the material parameter from rigid metal to flexible polymer, allowing the mounting hardware to achieve secure attachment through elastic deformation and snap-fit mechanisms rather than rigid mechanical fastening, thereby reducing bulk while maintaining attachment security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If complex mounting hardware is used, then secure attachment is achieved, but device complexity is increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidmounting system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple mounting functions into a single integrated adaptor component. The adaptor includes an upper section for seating on the rail, wing sections extending over the rail, and foot sections forming grooves, all in one piece that snaps onto the rail to secure accessories, eliminating the need for separate mounting components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The adaptor is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing through its snap-fit mechanism. The flexible material allows the adaptor to automatically adjust and lock into position on the rail without requiring complex alignment procedures or additional fastening steps, reducing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 allows for easy mounting of accessories while maintaining a low profile, reducing bulk and enhancing the firearm's aesthetics and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

an adaptor comprising flexible material permitting the adaptor to be snapped into position to mount the adaptor on a firearm rail

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The first foot section and first wing section form a first groove, and the second foot section and second wing section form a second groove to secure the adaptor to the firearm rail when mounted

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS12546569B2Low profile rail mount for firearm

Publication Date: 2026.02.10 CRIMSON TRACE CORP

AI summary

A low profile rail mounting system, comprises an adaptor for mounting an accessory on a firearm rail. The adaptor can include flexible material such that the adaptor can be snapped into position to mount the adaptor on the firearm rail. The adaptor includes opposite grooves that receive the firearm rail to maintain the adaptor on the rail.