Weapon Accessory Link Rail Attachment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for attaching assault rifles to tactical equipment, such as using nylon webbing, lack secure retention, causing rifles to move out of position during activities like climbing, walking, or falling, necessitating a more secure and convenient attachment method.
Innovation Solution
A modular attachment system that includes a base element, a movable element, and a locking mechanism, allowing for one-handed secure attachment and detachment of firearms or accessories to tactical equipment, using a rail system that transitions from an open to a closed position via pressure, with a quick-release mechanism for easy detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple loop sling is used to attach the rifle, then the attachment method is simple and easy to use, but the rifle lacks secure retention and moves out of position during activities
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional components: a mounting bracket with engagement arms, a locking mechanism with movable element, and a release mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates a movable element that can transition between locked and unlocked positions. The engagement arms can move between engaged and disengaged states with the rail, providing dynamic retention that secures the rifle firmly during activities while allowing quick release when needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the rifle is slung without additional securing mechanisms, then the individual can move freely, but the rifle is not held securely in position during movement or falls
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system automatically secures itself to the rifle via the engagement arms that snap onto the rail when the mounting bracket is attached. The locking mechanism self-activates when the rail is inserted, providing secure retention without requiring continuous manual intervention while allowing the user freedom of movement.
3Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is added to the sling, then the rifle retention is improved, but the attachment system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket, locking mechanism, and release function are merged into a single integrated attachment system that mounts to the rifle as one unit. This consolidation provides secure retention through the locking mechanism while maintaining relatively simple overall structure and operation compared to separate independent components.
4Productivity
If a quick-release mechanism is implemented, then the attachment and detachment speed is improved, but the mechanism requires additional components increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The release function is extracted as a separate, simple actuator mechanism that independently controls the locking state. This allows quick release operation through a single action while keeping the overall attachment system relatively simple, as the release mechanism works in conjunction with rather than adding to the core locking structure.
Data Source
AI summary
Attachment systems configured to fixedly hold a rail are described, including a first connector integrated with a tactical accessory mount, a base element, including a first engagement portion configured to at least partially wrap around a first edge of the rail, and a movable element configured to move relative to the base and including a second engagement portion configured to at least partially wrap around a second edge of the rail. A locking mechanism is provided to hold the movable element in a closed position with the second engagement portion holding the second edge of the rail and the first engagement portion holding the first edge of the rail. A second connector may be attached to the base element to hold the base element to the tactical accessory mount via the first connector.