Universal Rail Attachment Assembly for M-Lok and KeyMod Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Firearm accessories are not compatible with both M-Lok and KeyMod rail systems due to their different slot configurations, limiting their attachment options.
Innovation Solution
A rail attachment assembly with a main body featuring protrusions for both M-Lok and KeyMod rail systems, along with a cavity and aperture system that allows secure attachment using a fastener and nut, enabling compatibility with multiple rail systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a firearm accessory is designed for one rail system (M-Lok or KeyMod), then it achieves secure attachment to that specific rail system, but it cannot be attached to the other rail system due to different slot configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment assembly is designed with dual protrusions on the main body - a first protrusion for M-Lok rail compatibility and a second protrusion for KeyMod rail compatibility. This allows a single accessory to interface with both rail system types, achieving multi-functionality and universal attachment capability without requiring separate accessories for each rail system
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a main body containing both M-Lok and KeyMod protrusions, a separate cavity component, and a fastening mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve compatibility with both rail systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate accessories are used to cover both rail systems, then compatibility with both M-Lok and KeyMod is achieved, but the quantity of accessories and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functionality of two separate accessories (one for M-Lok and one for KeyMod) into a single unified attachment assembly. The main body integrates both M-Lok and KeyMod protrusions, allowing one accessory to replace what would traditionally require two separate accessories, thereby reducing the total quantity needed while maintaining compatibility with both rail systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal attachment design is implemented to work with both rail systems, then compatibility is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase due to different slot configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The main body is designed with differentiated local features - a first protrusion with specific geometry for M-Lok slot engagement and a second protrusion with different geometry for KeyMod slot engagement. Each protrusion is locally optimized for its specific rail system interface, allowing precise fitting for each rail type while maintaining a unified overall structure that achieves both compatibilities
Data Source
AI summary
A rail attachment assembly for attaching a firearm accessory to a first or second rail system includes a main body comprising a first side having a protrusion configured to mate with a slot in the first rail system, a second side having a protrusion configured to mate with a slot in the second rail system, and an aperture. The rail attachment assembly also includes a cavity in the firearm accessory configured to mate with the protrusion on the first side or the second side of the main body. An aperture extends through the firearm accessory. A fastener is positionable through the aperture in the firearm accessory, the aperture in the main body, and the slot in the first rail system or the slot in the second rail system. A nut is attachable to the fastener to secure the firearm accessory to the first rail system or the second rail system.