Power and data interface for weapon accessory mounting rail
Inventors
Teetzel, James W. • Turner, Elliott S.
Assignees
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Publication Number
US-12546554-B2
Publication Date
2026-02-10
Expiration Date
Abstract
A system and method for connecting a weapon-mounted accessory to a computer comprises a first data and power port configured to provide data and power transmission between the computer and the weapon-mounted accessory. The first data and power port is configured to detachably couple to a slot in a slot rail weapon interface. In a further aspect, one or more additional data and power ports are capable of providing data and power transmission between the computer and one or more additional weapon-mounted accessories. Each of the one or more additional data and power ports is configured to detachably couple to a slot in a slot rail weapon interface. The first data and power port and the one or more additional data and power ports are configured to be operably connected to each other to form a serial chain in a custom configuration of data and power ports.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a system for connecting a weapon-mounted accessory to a computer. The system includes a first data and power port configured to operably connect to the computer and to transmit data and power between the computer and the weapon-mounted accessory. The first data and power port is detachably coupled to a slot defining a through opening in a slot rail weapon interface.
The invention further provides a detachable mechanical interface between the data and power port and the slot rail weapon interface. In some implementations, the port includes a housing and a peripheral flange with a channel that receives and retains a rim of the slot. Rotating tab(s) pivot between an insertion/removal position and a secured position to retain the rim of the slot.
The system supports expansion to additional accessories through one or more additional data and power ports. Additional detachable ports can be connected in a serial chain to transmit data and power simultaneously among the computer, the accessory on the first port, and accessories on the additional ports, enabling a custom configuration. The slot rail weapon interface is disposed on a weapon handguard surrounding a barrel, and internal cable routing is supported through openings in the slot rail weapon interface and through an interior handguard space.
Claims Coverage
The document includes multiple independent-claim themes covering a detachably coupled first data and power port to a slot-rail weapon interface, a mechanical retention interface for the port within the slot, a slot-rail weapon interface disposed on a weapon handguard, one or more additional ports connected as a serial chain for simultaneous data and power transmission, and a Small Tactical Universal Battery (STUB) interface as a battery pack interface.
Detachably coupled first data and power port to a slot rail weapon interface
A first data and power port configured to detachably couple to a slot defining a through opening in a slot rail weapon interface, the first data and power port being capable of providing data and power transmission between the computer and the weapon-mounted accessory.
Rotating tab retention for a data and power port in a slot
A first data and power port including a housing and a peripheral flange, and at least one rotating tab configured to pivot between an insertion/removal position and a secured position to retain a rim of the slot within a channel.
Weapon handguard with slot rail weapon interface disposed on the handguard
A weapon handguard surrounding a barrel of a weapon, with the slot rail weapon interface disposed on the handguard.
Serial chain of additional detachable data and power ports for simultaneous transmission
One or more additional detachable data and power ports on a slot-rail weapon interface configured to be connected in a serial chain to transmit data and power simultaneously among the computer, the accessory on the first port, and accessories on the additional ports in a custom configuration.
Small Tactical Universal Battery (STUB) battery pack interface
A battery pack interface that is a Small Tactical Universal Battery (STUB) interface.
Overall, the claim coverage centers on detachably coupling a data-and-power port to a slot-rail weapon interface through a slot defining a through opening, using mechanical retention structures, optionally placing the interface on a handguard, expanding the system via a serial chain of additional ports for simultaneous data and power, and specifying a STUB battery pack interface.
Stated Advantages
Custom configuration of data and power ports using one or more additional ports in a serial chain.
Simultaneous data and power transmission among the computer, the accessory on the first port, and accessories on additional ports.
Simplified detachable connection of a computer to weapon-mounted accessories via detachably coupled data and power ports to a slot rail weapon interface.
Documented Applications
Connecting weapon-mounted accessories to a computer through a slot-rail weapon interface to provide data and power transmission.
Providing accessory expansion using one or more additional detachable ports in a serial chain for simultaneous data and power transmission in a custom configuration.
Mounting the slot rail weapon interface on a weapon handguard surrounding a weapon barrel.
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