Self-adjusting Holster with Flexible Cradles and Resilient Straps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing flashlight holsters are either too complex to adjust for different sizes or fail to hold flashlights firmly, and they do not accommodate the wide range of sizes available, leading to their underutilization due to the need for frequent adjustments and lack of versatile sizing options in stores.

Innovation Solution

A self-adjusting implement holster with flexible cradles that automatically conform to the size of the flashlight, utilizing resilient straps to entrap the device and a rotator with detents for hands-free aiming, allowing attachment to a belt or headband.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional adjustable holsters are used, then different sizes of flashlights can be held, but the adjustment process is complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of different flashlight sizesVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holster employs self-adjusting cradles that automatically adapt to the size of the inserted implement. The resilient strap system allows the cradles to flex and conform to the implement's dimensions without requiring manual adjustment operations, enabling the holster to service itself by automatically accommodating various flashlight sizes from AAA to D cell

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The holster utilizes dynamic, flexible cradles made with resilient materials that can change their shape and size accommodation capabilities based on the implement inserted. The cradles flex elastically to match the specific dimensions of different flashlight types, providing continuous adaptation rather than discrete adjustment steps

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If traditional holsters are used, then flashlights can be held, but they do not hold the flashlight firmly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefirmness of holdVSAvoidease of insertion and securing

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The holster employs flexible cradles constructed from resilient materials that can deform and conform to the implement's shape. These flexible cradles wrap around and secure the flashlight firmly through elastic deformation, providing a reliable hold while allowing easy insertion and removal without complex fastening operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient strap system creates a dynamic securing mechanism that automatically adjusts its gripping force to match the implement size. The flexibility and elasticity of the cradles enable them to apply appropriate holding force while maintaining ease of insertion, combining firmness with operational simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple holster sizes are stocked, then all flashlight sizes can be accommodated, but store space is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverange of flashlight sizes heldVSAvoidstorage space in stores

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The holster design achieves universality by creating a single model that can accommodate the entire range of flashlight sizes from AAA to D cell. The resilient cradle system provides multi-functional capability, allowing one holster design to serve multiple size requirements, thereby eliminating the need for stores to inventory multiple specialized holster sizes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If holsters require manual adjustment, then different sizes can be accommodated, but there is no time to adjust when quick access is needed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesize accommodation capabilityVSAvoidtime required for adjustment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The holster performs self-adjustment automatically upon insertion of the implement. The resilient cradles and strap system dynamically adapt to the implement's size without requiring the user to perform any adjustment operations, eliminating time loss while maintaining full size accommodation capability across different flashlight types

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

The holster securely holds flashlights of various sizes without manual adjustment, enabling hands-free use in multiple directions, enhancing usability and convenience.

Implementation Method 1

resilient straps pull the cradles together, entrapping the implement between the cradles

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8308033B2Self-adjusting holster particularly adapted for holding implements of a wide range of sizes

Publication Date: 2012.11.13 NITE IZE INC

AI summary

An implement holster comprising a holster support, a first cradle attached to the holster support, a second cradle, and a resilient strap system connected between the holster support and the second cradle, the first cradle fitting within the second cradle. The implement holster further comprises a clip adapted for attaching the holster to a support, a rotator connected between the clip and the holster, and a detent system permitting the holster to be held in a plurality of different positions with respect to the clip.