Quick-Change Shooting Platform Feet for Tool-Free Terrain Adaptation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current firearm bipod and monopod foot systems are not easily adaptable to different terrain conditions, often requiring tools to change configurations, which is a hindrance in competitive shooting where varied surfaces are encountered.
Innovation Solution
The development of an adapter socket system that allows for tool-free interchangeability of feet on firearm platforms, featuring a tapered conical interior and spherical surfaces with an O-ring mechanism for secure attachment, enabling quick swapping between articulating and non-articulating feet with baskets for enhanced surface contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed feet are used on shooting platforms, then the platform provides stable support for a specific terrain type, but the platform cannot be quickly adapted to different terrain conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The foot system is divided into separate interchangeable components: a base mounting structure and multiple detachable foot tips. Each foot tip can be independently removed and replaced without affecting the base structure, enabling rapid adaptation to different terrain conditions through simple component swapping rather than replacing the entire foot assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal mounting interface is designed with standardized geometry and retention features that accommodate multiple foot tip types (spiked feet for soft ground, flat feet for hard surfaces, adjustable-angle feet for varied terrain). This single mounting structure serves multiple functions by accepting different foot configurations, eliminating the need for separate mounting systems for each terrain type.
2Ease of operation
If traditional screw-on feet are used, then the feet can be removed and replaced, but tools are required which complicates the changing process
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional threaded screw-on mechanism is replaced with a cam-actuated retention system. A cam lever provides mechanical advantage to lock and release the foot tips through a simple lifting motion, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners and tools. The cam mechanism converts a small lifting force into a large locking force, providing secure attachment without complex threading.
Solution Approach 2:
The foot replacement system is designed to be self-contained and tool-free, with all necessary retention and release features integrated into the foot and mounting structure itself. The cam lever and retention lugs work together as a self-sufficient mechanism that requires no external tools or additional components, allowing shooters to quickly change feet during competition without requiring toolkits or assistance.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a foot attachment adapter for a firearm support device having at least one leg. The adapter includes a body configured to attach to a leg of a firearm support device and a socket. A foot having has an attachment portion that is configured to be detachably received by the socket. A temporarily deformable elastomeric member is positioned at least partially in the socket to allow insertion of the foot portion and to releasably hold the attachment portion in the socket.