M.A.S. (Micropals Adapter System)

Abstract

A modular attachment system comprising: a block featuring a slot; an adapter stick detachably connected to the block, wherein the adapter stick is an elongated member characterized by a first end and a second end, the first end configured as an L-shaped member; and a fastener. The slot is positioned at the top of the block and is designed to receive the body of the adapter stick, allowing for the insertion of the adapter stick through the designated slot. The block further includes a second receiving hole and a recessed area surrounding the second receiving hole, providing enhanced attachment capabilities and structural integrity. This modular attachment system facilitates secure and versatile connections among various components.

Claims

1. A system comprising: a block, an adapter stick detachably connected to the block, and a fastener.

2. The claim as claimed in claim 1, wherein the adapter stick includes an L-shape member.

3. The claim as claimed in claim 1, wherein the adapter stick includes an elongated member having an imprint area, with a first end and a second end, the first end includes an L-shape member.

4. The claim as claimed in claim 3, wherein the block comprises a slot located at the top of the block, designed to receive the body of the adapter stick, thereby allowing for the insertion of the adapter stick through the slot.

5. The claim as claimed in claim 3, wherein the block comprises a second receiving hole.

6. The claim as claimed in claim 5, wherein the block comprises recessed area surrounding the second receiving hole.

7. A system comprising: a block having a slot, an adapter stick having an imprint area, detachably connected to the block, and a fastener.

8. The claim as claimed in claim 7, wherein the adapter stick includes an L-shape member.

9. The claim as claimed in claim 7, wherein the adapter stick includes an elongated member with a first end and a second end, the first end includes an L-shape member.

10. The claim as claimed in claim 9, wherein the slot is located at the top of the block, designed to receive the body of the adapter stick, thereby allowing for the insertion of the adapter stick through the slot.

11. The claim as claimed in claim 9, wherein the block comprises a second receiving hole.

12. The claim as claimed in claim 11, wherein the block comprises recessed area surrounding the second receiving hole.

13. A system comprising: a block having a receiving hole, an adapter stick, having an imprint area, detachably connected to the block, and a fastener.

14. The claim as claimed in claim 13, wherein the adapter stick includes an L-shape member.

15. The claim as claimed in claim 13, wherein the adapter stick includes an elongated member with a first end and a second end, the first end includes an L-shape member.

16. The claim as claimed in claim 15, wherein the block comprises a slot located at the top of the block, designed to receive the body of the adapter stick.

17. The claim as claimed in claim 13, wherein the block comprises recessed area surrounding the receiving hole.

18. The claim as claimed in claim 16, wherein the slot extends entirely through the block, thereby forming a hollow structure within the block.

19. The claim as claimed in claim 16, wherein the receiving hole extends entirely through the block, thereby forming a hollow structure within the block that facilitates the insertion and securement of the fastener through the receiving hole.

20. The claim as claimed in claim 16, wherein the slot is disposed perpendicularly to the receiving hole.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the adapter stick and block being in a state of use.

[0013] FIG. 2 is an illustration showing one embodiment of the adapter stick of the present invention.

[0014] FIG. 3 is an illustration of one embodiment of the present invention showing the adapter stick with a hole.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a side view showing one embodiment of the adapter stick of the present invention.

[0016] FIG. 5 is an illustration showing one embodiment of the block of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of the block and the fastener inserted in the block of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 7 is an illustration of one embodiment of the block and the fastener of the present invention.

DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION

[0019] All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0020] As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art that the present disclosure has broad utility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the disclosure and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being preferred is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0021] Accordingly, while embodiments are described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present disclosure, and are made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded in any claim of a patent issuing here from, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection be defined by reading into any claim limitation found herein and/or issuing here from that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

[0022] Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection is to be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the description set forth herein.

[0023] Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which an ordinary artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used hereinas understood by the ordinary artisan based on the contextual use of such term-differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the ordinary artisan should prevail.

[0024] Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, a and an each generally denotes at least one, but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. When used herein to join a list of items, or denotes at least one of the items, but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, and denotes all of the items of the list.

[0025] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While many embodiments of the disclosure may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims found herein and/or issuing here from. The present disclosure contains headers. It should be understood that these headers are used as references and are not to be construed as limiting upon the subjected matter disclosed under the header.

[0026] The present invention relates to an improved attachment system for facilitating the connection of Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) gear to a Micro PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System) webbing belt.

[0027] This inventive system addresses identified deficiencies in existing attachment mechanisms by providing a robust solution that ensures secure and stable connections.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, the present invention comprises two primary components: an adapter stick 10 and a block 20. Each component is engineered to work collaboratively, facilitating a secure attachment for MOLLE gear.

Adapter Stick

[0029] The adapter stick 10 is specifically designed to interlace with the Micro PALS webbing of the belt. It features an L-shaped stopper at its base, serving to inhibit unintended withdrawal of MOLLE pouches once secured.

[0030] In one embodiment, the upper end of the adapter stick 10 may contain a receiving hole 16, as shown in FIG. 3, configured to accept a securing screw, thereby creating a unified attachment mechanism.

[0031] In a variation of the adapter stick 10, the design may exclude the receiving hole 16, as shown in FIG. 2, relying on alternative fastening methods or configurations. This variation allows for flexibility in the attachment mechanism, accommodating different user needs and preferences.

Block

[0032] The block 20 is intended to affix to the upper portion of the adapter stick 10. It comprises a body of the block 20, a slot 25, and a second receiving hole 28.

[0033] In one embodiment, the slot 25 can be strategically located at the side of the block to accommodate the body of the adapter stick 10, allowing for easy insertion.

[0034] The slot 25 is preferably shaped as a rectangular prism, as shown in FIGS. 5-7, matching the dimensions of the elongated member of the adapter stick 10. It should be understood that the slot 25 may include any other suitable shapes.

[0035] For the embodiment with a hole on the adapter stick 10, once the adapter stick 10 is inserted through the slot 25, the alignment of the first 16 and second receiving holes 28 allows the fastener 30 to traverse both, thereby securely attaching the block 20 to the adapter stick 10.

[0036] This fastening mechanism effectively prevents the adapter stick 10 from retracting through the top loop of the Micro PALS webbing.

[0037] In a variation of the block 20, the design includes a recessed area 27 around the second receiving hole 28, as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 7. This recessed area 27 is intended to accommodate the head of the fastener 30, such as a screw, ensuring that the fastener 30 sits flush with or below the surface of the block 20. This design feature enhances the overall aesthetic and functional integration of the components, preventing any protrusions that could interfere with the attachment or use of the MOLLE gear.

[0038] More importantly, once fastener 30 is secured by aligning the first 16 and second receiving holes 28, the flat portion of the block housing slot 25 sits flush against the corresponding flat portion of the belt. This effectively prevents any excess lateral or side-to-side movement of the adapter and/or pouch. Additionally, the bottom portion of block 20, once secured to Stick 10 with fastener 30, functions like a clamp between the top and bottom rows of Micro PALS webbing, further aiding in the elimination of any excess lateral or side-to-side motion.

[0039] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a system comprising: a block 20, an adapter stick 10 detachably connected to the block 20, and a fastener 30. In one embodiment, the adapter stick 10 includes an L-shape member.

[0040] The adapter stick 10 may include an elongated member with a first end and a second end, the first end includes an L-shape member.

[0041] In preferred embodiment, the block 20 comprises recessed area 27 surrounding the second receiving hole 28.

[0042] The inventive relationship between the block 20 and the adapter stick 10 is designed to ensure a secure and stable attachment for MOLLE gear to a Micro PALS webbing belt. The block 10 features a body with a slot 25 and a slightly recessed receiving hole 28. As described above, this recessed area 27 allows the head of a fastener 30, such as a screw, to sit flush with or below the surface of the block 20, ensuring that the fastener 30 applies pressure to the adapter stick 10 without protruding.

[0043] This design may prevent any interference with the attachment or use of the MOLLE gear.

[0044] In preferred embodiment, the adapter stick 10 does not have a hole but features an imprint 15 from a set screw, indicating where the fastener 30 applies pressure. When the block 20 and the adapter stick 10 are assembled, the fastener 30 is inserted through the recessed receiving hole 28 in the block 20 and tightened. As the screw 30 protrudes into the inner side of the block 20, it applies pressure to the surface of the adapter stick 10, effectively securing it in place. The fastener 30 may act as a stopper, preventing the adapter stick 10 from retracting through the slot 25 in the block 20, thereby maintaining the stability of the attached MOLLE gear. This inventive relationship ensures that the components remain securely assembled, enhancing the overall functionality and reliability of the attachment system.

Operational Methodology

[0045] The operational methodology for utilizing the inventive system involves several interrelated steps: [0046] 1. Initial Insertion: The second end of the adapter stick 10 is inserted into the bottom row of a Micro PALS webbing. [0047] 2. Threading Through MOLLE Loop: The adapter stick 10 is then woven through a loop of a MOLLE pouch, establishing a secure connection point. [0048] 3. Interweaving Through Top Loop: The adapter stick 10 is further interwoven through the top loop of the Micro PALS webbing belt. [0049] 4. Positioning the Block: The block 20 is positioned atop the adapter stick 10. [0050] 5. Final Insertion: The adapter stick 10 is subsequently inserted through the final row of the MOLLE pouch. [0051] 6. Securing with Fastener: For the adapter stick 10 with a hole 16, utilization of the screw fastener 30 at the first receiving hole 16 of the adapter stick 10 allows for securement to the belt, stabilizing the MOLLE pouch in its intended position.

[0052] This configuration establishes a secure attachment point for MOLLE pouches on a Micro PALS belt, enhancing user comfort and maintaining the wearer's range of motion during varied activities.

[0053] For clarity and precision of terms as used in the present invention, the following definitions apply throughout this application unless explicitly stated otherwise: The term fastener encompasses any fastening mechanism known in the art, including but not limited to screws, nuts, bolts, adhesives, washers, nails, hook-and-loop systems, or similar devices. Additionally, it is understood that any component of the present invention may be fabricated from a variety of materials widely recognized in the art, including but not limited to plastics, metals, rubber, silicone, printed resins, or other suitable materials.

[0054] It should be understood that various configurations, shapes, and dimensions of the adapter stick are within the scope of the present invention.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 5-7, the block 20 comprises a body of the block 20, a slot 25, and a second receiving hole 28.

[0056] For the adapter stick 10 with a hole 16, when the adapter stick 10 is inserted through the slot 25, the alignment of the first and second receiving holes allows the fastener 30 to traverse both, thereby securely attaching the block 20 to the adapter stick 10. This fastening mechanism effectively prevents the adapter stick from retracting through the top loop of the Micro PALS webbing.

[0057] An exemplary method of using the Micro PALS Adapter System is as follows: The second end of the adapter stick 10 is inserted into the bottom row of a Micro PALS webbing. The adapter stick 10 is then woven through a MOLLE loop on a pouch. Subsequently, the adapter stick 10 is interwoven through the top row of the Micro PALS webbing, advancing the stick 10 upward until the second end is flush with the top of the belt.

[0058] Upon positioning the block 20 onto the adapter stick 10, the adapter stick 10 is pushed upward until the first end aligns with the bottom row of the Micro PALS webbing.

[0059] Again, for the adapter stick 10 with a hole 16, the alignment of the first receiving hole 16 of the adapter stick with the second receiving hole 28 of the block 20 permits the insertion of the fastener 30, thereby securing the components together.

[0060] Once the fastener 30 is secured, both the adapter stick 10 and block 20 are conjoined, preventing any slippage from the webbing and ensuring that the MOLLE pouch is maintained in a secure attachment to both the adapter 10 and the Micro PALS belt.

[0061] This inventive system represents a significant advancement in the field, aiding users in efficiently and securely managing their MOLLE gear while maintaining optimal mobility.

[0062] Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.