Quick Detach Accessory Attachment With Spring-Biased Finger Grips
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing accessory attachment mechanisms for slings and other devices require users to press a button in the opposite direction of the pull for detachment, making it difficult to detach quickly, especially when wearing gloves or using only one hand.
Innovation Solution
A quick-detach accessory attachment system with a spring-biased retractor apparatus and finger grips that allows attachment and removal by either pushing or pulling, enabling easier operation with gloves and one hand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a button is pressed downward to retract the detent for detachment, then the detent can be disengaged, but the operation becomes difficult when wearing gloves or using only one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional button operation by allowing the button to be pressed in the same direction as the pull (upward) rather than the opposite direction (downward). The button is biased by a spring to return to its original position, so pressing it upward temporarily releases the detent, allowing the accessory to be pulled off in the same direction as the button press.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased button mechanism automatically returns to its engaged position after being pressed, eliminating the need for the user to manually reset the button. The system serves itself by using the spring force to restore the button to its default state, reducing the number of manual operations required.
2Ease of operation
If the button is pressed with one finger while pulling with the other hand, then detachment is possible, but the mechanism requires two hands which may not be available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent allows the button to be pressed in the same direction as the pulling force (upward), enabling the user to use a single hand to both press the button and pull the accessory off simultaneously, eliminating the need for two-handed operation.
3Reliability
If the button is pressed in the opposite direction of the pull, then the detent mechanism can be actuated, but the operation becomes awkward and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the button press direction to match the pull direction, allowing the user to press the button upward while simultaneously pulling the accessory off in the same upward direction. This coordinated motion reduces the time required for detachment compared to pressing down and then pulling up separately.
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
Facilitates easy attachment and detachment of accessories by allowing either pushing or pulling motions, improving usability and accessibility, especially in situations where manual dexterity is limited.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-biased retractor apparatus operable to move the at least one locking member from an engaged position to a disengaged position
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides an accessory attachment, comprising a housing with a top end and a bottom end, at least one locking member, a spring-biased retractor apparatus operable to move the locking member from an engaged position to a disengaged position, and finger grips attached to the retractor apparatus. The accessory attachment may be attached to, or removed from, a mounting receptacle either by pushing or pulling the finger grips toward or away from either end of the housing parallel to a longitudinal axis of the housing.