Modular Junction Box Interface for Cross-Brand Weapon Remote Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The lack of a standard remote control connector interface for weapon accessories results in manufacturer-specific proprietary interfaces, limiting compatibility and flexibility, and increasing manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular junction box interface that electrically couples a remote control unit to a weapon accessory device, allowing various connectors to fit into a common receptacle, providing flexibility and compatibility with multiple manufacturers' keypads and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturer-specific proprietary interfaces are used for remote control units, then each manufacturer can control their own equipment, but compatibility with other manufacturers' equipment is lost and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector design that allows a single connector type to interface with multiple different weapon accessory devices from various manufacturers. The connector is designed with standardized contact patterns and mounting features that can accommodate different accessory types (illuminators, lasers, range finders) while maintaining compatibility across manufacturer boundaries, thereby achieving multi-functionality and universality.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector serves as an intermediary component between the remote control unit and the weapon accessory device. By introducing this standardized intermediate interface, the patent enables compatibility between different manufacturers' equipment without requiring direct customization between each device pair. The intermediary connector translates between different interface requirements, resolving the compatibility issue.
2Ease of manufacture
If proprietary interfaces are used, then manufacturer control is maintained, but manufacturing costs increase and supply chain flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a universal connector that can interface with multiple accessory types and manufacturers, the patent enables manufacturers to use the same connector design across different product lines. This reduces per-unit manufacturing costs through economies of scale and simplifies supply chain management by standardizing components, thereby improving ease of manufacture while enhancing supply chain flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple proprietary connectors are produced, then each manufacturer's equipment can be controlled, but manufacturing complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple proprietary connector designs into a single universal connector that incorporates the essential functions of various manufacturer-specific interfaces. By combining these functions into one standardized design, the patent reduces connector variety while maintaining equipment compatibility, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A junction box for a weapon accessory device is provided for electrically coupling a remote control unit to the weapon accessory device, the remote control unit having one or more manually actuatable switches. The junction box comprises a housing having a mounting face and a connection face, wherein the mounting face is configured to face a complementary mounting surface of the weapon accessory device when the junction box is mounted to the weapon accessory device. The connection face is configured to couple to an electrical cable electrically coupled to the remote control unit. A plurality of electrical conductors are held within the housing and comprise mating contact portions disposed at the mounting face and configured to contact aligned contacts on the weapon accessory device.