Trigger Guard Lock for Single-Motion Holster Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing holsters fail to securely retain firearms against unauthorized withdrawal while also allowing rapid and single-motion access for authorized users, often requiring multiple steps or delaying access in high-stress situations.

Innovation Solution

A trigger guard lock device positioned within the holster that automatically engages the firearm's trigger guard upon insertion and can be released via a rear trigger guard release mechanism during the natural withdrawal motion, allowing single-motion removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a removable strap is used to prevent unauthorized withdrawal, then security against unauthorized removal is improved, but the number of motions required to remove the handgun increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against unauthorized removalVSAvoidnumber of motions to remove handgun
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the release mechanism from the traditional strap system and integrates it directly into the trigger guard lock device. The thumb actuable release is built into the locking mechanism itself, allowing the user to release the trigger guard lock and remove the handgun in a single motion without needing to separately manipulate a removable strap.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges the release function into the trigger guard lock device by providing a thumb actuable release that is integrated with the locking mechanism. This combines the security function and the release function into a single unified device, eliminating the need for separate strap manipulation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If biometric scanning is used to verify authorization, then security against unauthorized withdrawal is improved, but the time required to access the handgun increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against unauthorized withdrawalVSAvoidtime to unlock handgun
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger guard lock device automatically engages with the firearm's trigger guard when the firearm is inserted into the holster, and the thumb actuable release allows for rapid one-handed operation. The system performs the locking function automatically without requiring user intervention for verification, enabling quick access when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If a trigger guard lock is automatically engaged upon insertion, then security against unauthorized removal is improved, but the complexity of the holster device increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against unauthorized removalVSAvoidholster mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger guard lock device automatically engages with the firearm's trigger guard when the firearm is inserted into the holster. The locking action occurs passively through the insertion motion itself, without requiring additional actuators, motors, or complex control systems. The thumb actuable release provides a simple manual override that complements the automatic engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9322612B2Holster including trigger guard lock
Publication Date: 2016.04.26 SAFARILAND LLC
  • US9322612B2 patent drawing
  • US9322612B2 patent drawing
  • US9322612B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Trigger guard lock device for retaining a firearm in a holster and enabling unlocking and removing the handgun from the holster in a single motion. In an aspect, a trigger guard device comprises a device body having a channel for receiving a firearm trigger guard, a lock automatically locks upon insertion of the guard and is positioned within the channel for retaining the guard and a release lever to permit the lock to pivot. The release is positioned at the top rear of the holster such that the release is actuated by finger of a user during the natural withdrawal motion. In this manner, the user may unlock and remove the handgun in a single motion. Also, the device includes an adjustable stabilizer for the handgun.