Modular Elastic Sling for Firearm Weight Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing firearm slings do not provide comfortable and uniform weight distribution for sustained carry while failing to combine the advantages of single-point, two-point, and three-point configurations into a simple and easy-to-use system that can be quickly converted between different carrying and firing positions.

Innovation Solution

A modular, adjustable sling formed from a closed loop of elastic cord with a primary strap permanently secured to the loop and a secondary strap that is releasably attached, allowing manual sliding along the loop to convert between single-point, two-point, and three-point configurations, distributing the firearm's weight uniformly around the user's shoulders without neck strain.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional single-point sling is used, then quick hands-free carry is achieved, but firearm weight is concentrated on one side of neck causing discomfort and instability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequick hands-free carryVSAvoidneck strain and firearm instability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The sling is divided into multiple independent straps (first strap, second strap, third strap) that can be separately adjusted and configured. This segmentation allows the weight to be distributed across multiple contact points on the body rather than concentrated on one side of the neck, resolving the contradiction between quick carry and comfort/stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The sling system can be quickly reconfigured between single-point, two-point, and three-point configurations by adjusting the straps. This multi-functionality allows the user to switch between quick hands-free carry (single-point) and more stable distributed carry (two-point or three-point) modes, addressing both the need for speed and the need for comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional two-point sling is used, then firearm weight is distributed over shoulders, but conversion between configurations is complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweight distributionVSAvoidconfiguration conversion time
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The sling incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable straps that can be quickly modified by the user. The first, second, and third straps can be independently adjusted in length and repositioned to convert between single-point, two-point, and three-point configurations, enabling dynamic adaptation without time-consuming adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The sling is pre-configured with multiple straps and attachment points that are ready for quick reconfiguration. The modular design with pre-positioned hardware allows the user to switch between configurations by simple movements rather than complex assembly, reducing the time penalty for adapting to different carry modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional three-point sling is used, then uniform weight distribution is achieved, but device complexity increases with multiple adjustment mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuniform weight distributionVSAvoidnumber of adjustment mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The same three straps (first, second, and third straps) serve multiple functions across different configurations. By selectively engaging and adjusting these straps, the system achieves uniform weight distribution in three-point mode while maintaining the capability for single-point and two-point configurations, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms for each mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention combines the functionality of single-point, two-point, and three-point slings into one integrated system using a shared set of straps and attachment points. This merging reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate slings for each configuration, as the same components are used across all modes with simple repositioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Adaptability or versatility

If modular adjustable sling with multiple straps is used, then configuration versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesling configuration optionsVSAvoidnumber of straps and attachment points
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each strap in the system is designed to serve multiple functions across different configurations. The first strap can be used for single-point or two-point carry, while the second and third straps work together for three-point carry or can be reconfigured for other modes. This universal design maximizes versatility while minimizing the number of required components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The sling is segmented into distinct adjustable straps that can be independently configured, allowing for precise adaptation to different carry preferences and firearm types. This segmentation provides versatility while keeping each individual component simple and easy to understand, reducing the cognitive complexity despite the increased functional capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 comfortable and uniform weight distribution, reduces user fatigue, and allows easy conversion between sling configurations without tools, maintaining the firearm proximate to the user's body for optimal control and ease of use.

Implementation Method 1

formed from a closed loop of elastic cord

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10281235B1Sling for a firearm
Publication Date: 2019.05.07 WHITE JUSTIN
  • US10281235B1 patent drawing
  • US10281235B1 patent drawing
  • US10281235B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention is a versatile and modular sling for carrying a firearm around a user's neck, torso, or over one shoulder. The sling includes a closed sling loop formed from an elastic cord, a primary strap secured to a portion of the sling loop that is operable to anchor the sling loop in a given orientation relative to the firearm, and a secondary strap releasably attached to the sling loop that is slidable along the length of the sling loop to easily convert the sling between one-point, two-point, and three-point configurations. The sling can be attached to the firearm by use of studs or swivels in a conventional manner or can be attached directly to the firearm by using adjustable loops at each end of each strap.