Trigger Guard Sheath with Nested Holster Protrusions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing firearm trigger guards do not adequately prevent accidental discharge when a pistol is carried in a holster, as they may not securely encase the trigger and barrel, potentially allowing unwanted contact.

Innovation Solution

A trigger guard sheath with a molded plastic or KYDEX material design that forms an integral body with a top section for the barrel and a bottom section for the trigger, featuring protrusions for secure fitting within a holster, ensuring the trigger and barrel are fully enclosed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional trigger guard is used, then the structure is simple, but it does not adequately prevent accidental discharge when carried in a holster

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccidental discharge preventionVSAvoidtrigger guard structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger guard sheath is disposed within the holster, creating a nested configuration where the sheath is inserted into the holster's trigger guard receiving portion. This nested structure provides enhanced trigger protection while maintaining a compact overall design that integrates seamlessly with the existing holster system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The trigger guard sheath is divided into distinct functional sections: a top section with a first width configured to receive the barrel or slide, and a bottom section with a second width configured to receive the trigger and trigger guard. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized for its specific protective function while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If a snug fit is achieved for safety, then accidental discharge is prevented, but the fit may be too tight for easy insertion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrigger protectionVSAvoidinsertion ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The sheath features localized tapered portions at specific insertion points that create a friction-fit mechanism. These tapered sections allow the sheath to be easily inserted into the holster while maintaining a snug, secure fit once positioned, providing local flexibility to resolve the contradiction between secure retention and ease of insertion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The friction-fit mechanism allows the sheath to transition from a loose state during insertion to a secure, snug fit once positioned. This dynamic adjustment enables easy insertion followed by reliable retention, with the fit adapting to the insertion process rather than maintaining a constant tightness level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20240318938A1Trigger guard sheath
Publication Date: 2024.09.26 ZEHNDER HANNAH
  • US20240318938A1 patent drawing
  • US20240318938A1 patent drawing
  • US20240318938A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A trigger guard sheath for a pistol and is configured to be disposed within a holster. The sheath includes an integral body that includes a top section having a first width and configured to receive a barrel or slide of the pistol and a bottom section having a second width and configured to receive a trigger and trigger guard of the pistol. The integral body includes a first protrusion that extends radially outward from a first end of the top section and a first protrusion that extends radially outward from a first end and an inner wall of the top section in a first direction and a second protrusion that extends radially outward from a second end and outer wall of the bottom section in a second direction that is opposite the first direction.