Removable Firearm Storage Container with Spring-Loaded Dovetail Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage containers for firearms lack the ability to readily mount and dismount from a firearm without rendering the firearm unserviceable, and often require tools or have complex attachment mechanisms that are difficult to use with one hand or are specific to non-standard rail mounts.
Innovation Solution
A storage container with a pre-defined shape that features retractable and lockable lateral members with dual angle dovetail engagement, allowing it to transition between a standalone configuration and a mounted configuration on a firearm or other device without visible rail mounts, enabling easy attachment and detachment with one hand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If storage containers are designed with internal compartments integrated into firearm components (butt stock, pistol grip), then storage capability is provided, but the containers cannot be readily removed for separate portability and removing them renders the firearm unserviceable
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the storage container from the firearm by using a standardized mounting interface (Picatinny rail) that allows the container to be detached without affecting the firearm's functionality. The firearm and storage container become independent modules that can be connected or separated as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage container is designed with a universal mounting interface that can attach to various firearms equipped with standard rails. The container itself can serve multiple functions: attached to a firearm for immediate access, removed for separate portability, or mounted on other devices with compatible rails.
2Ease of operation
If accessory storage containers are designed to be readily removable from firearms, then portability is improved, but the attachment mechanism becomes complex and may require tools
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism uses dynamic elements including spring-loaded clamping members that automatically engage and disengage. The lateral members can pivot between locked and unlocked positions, providing automatic attachment when force is applied and easy release when force is removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism is self-actuating through spring force. When lateral members are pushed together, the clamping members automatically clamp onto the rail. To release, force is applied in the opposite direction, and the springs automatically return the mechanism to its initial state without requiring manual intervention or tools.
3Ease of operation
If conventional clamping mechanisms are used to attach accessories to firearm rails, then attachment is achieved, but the mechanisms are difficult to operate with one hand and often require tools
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through spring force. When lateral members are pushed together, the clamping members automatically engage the rail. To release, force is applied in the opposite direction, and the springs automatically return the mechanism to its initial state without requiring manual intervention or tools.
4Shape
If attachment mechanisms are made visible on the device, then the mounting function is apparent, but the pre-defined shape of a standalone device is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting components (lateral members and clamping members) are nested within the housing of the storage container. When not in use, they are retracted into recesses in the housing, maintaining the container's streamlined appearance. When mounting is required, the lateral members pivot outward to engage the rail.
Data Source
AI summary
A removable storage container that can be readily mounted on a firearm and in turn be readily removable from the firearm while returning to its original pre-defined shape, to be functional as a separate entity. A storage container comprises a housing 11 that has a pair of lateral members which can both be moved between a retracted position and an extended position. When the lateral members are in the retracted position, the storage housing has the aforementioned pre-defined shape. When the lateral members are in the extended position, they are locked in the extended position, and are adapted to engage the pre-defined firearm mounting rail configuration, and are prevented from movement in the long axis of the mounting rail.