Tactical Flashlight Transverse Control Panel for One-Handed Firearm Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flashlight devices are not adequately designed for convenient use with hand-held implements like firearms, particularly in self-defense or combat situations, and require improved functionality for one-handed operation and secure attachment during activities that require both hands.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function flashlight device with a tubular housing, adjustable finger retainer, and tactical retention system, featuring a control panel with manipulable buttons for single-digit operation and a light source with adjustable brightness and color, along with a retention system for secure attachment to clothing, allowing hands-free use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the flashlight is designed for conventional two-handed operation, then the control panel is easily accessible, but it interferes with firearm handling maneuvers and cannot be operated with one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is repositioned from a conventional longitudinal position to a transverse position perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the flashlight body. This dimensional repositioning allows the control panel to be accessed by the thumb while the fingers wrap around the body, enabling one-handed operation without interfering with firearm handling maneuvers.
2Ease of operation
If the flashlight requires two-handed operation, then control functions are accessible, but it cannot be securely held during one-handed firearm use
Solution Approach 1:
A retention system with a first component attached to the flashlight body and a second component attached to the user's clothing serves as an intermediary mechanism. This retention system provides secure attachment during one-handed firearm use, allowing the flashlight to be reliably held without requiring two hands while not interfering with firearm handling maneuvers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the light source optical axis is parallel to the tubular member longitudinal axis, then the flashlight provides conventional illumination, but it cannot be adjusted for different viewing angles
Solution Approach 1:
The optical axis of the light source is made adjustable relative to the longitudinal axis of the tubular member, allowing dynamic repositioning of the light beam direction. This enables the user to adjust the illumination angle for different viewing angles and applications while maintaining a relatively simple optical system without complex adjustment mechanisms.
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
Enables efficient one-handed operation of the flashlight during firearm use and other tasks, providing high-intensity lighting and secure attachment, enhancing usability in self-defense and industrial or outdoor activities without interfering with gun handling maneuvers.
Implementation Method 1
a light source mounted therein. The light source has an optical axis that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tubular member
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function flashlight device in one preferred embodiment comprising a housing assembly having a tubular member for gripping the device in a user's hand, a control housing coupled to the tubular member, and a lamp housing coupled to the control housing and having a light source mounted therein. The light source has an optical axis that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tubular member. Batteries are housed in the tubular member. A control panel having a keypad overlay is mounted in the control housing. The keypad overlay includes a plurality of control buttons. A driver board in the control housing receives signals from the control panel and control the operation of the light source. The plurality of control buttons are manipulable by a single digit of the user's hand while gripping the tubular member.