Primary Arms

Archive for the ‘Design’ Category

Mystery Ranch Special Projects Service

Monday, September 19th, 2022

At MYSTERY RANCH, we solve problems for our customers – we work with them to identify a solution that meets their needs.

MYSTERY RANCH builds the best load-bearing gear in the world. Period.  

In addition to designing products for commercial sale, we regularly work on Special Projects for government and other industry organizations. With our Special Projects Service offering, MYSTERY RANCH designs and manufactures custom products when no other load-carriage solution exists. That includes packaging weapons, comms gear, optics, sensors, connectors, cabling, and so on.

If needed, we collaborate with in-field experts that bring their expertise to the design and help deliver a rigorously field-tested product to the client.

MYSTERY RANCH has many patents on technologies necessary for special load-carriage requests, which cannot be found otherwise. Our Montana-based, in-house product development and production teams are structured to facilitate such specific design needs.

Our most recent Case Study is the ATM CWF – aka “THE ARCTIC RUCK.” Details of this service outlining the process and collaboration efforts with in-field professionals can be found here.

In many cases, the client comes to our facility to brainstorm a solution with our design team for their load carriage or packaging needs. They show us the equipment we need to design around. In other cases, the client may send us the equipment and then collaborate with us via video conference, phone, or email. When necessary, we travel to the client’s location to work with them directly or see or experience items or factors that cannot be brought to us.

If it needs to be carried by a human – let’s talk or visit our site: www.mysteryranch.com/Packs/Military/SP.

Whiskey Two Four Releases Backpack 00 Open Source CAD Pattern

Tuesday, August 23rd, 2022

WTF just did something really cool. They released the CAD for backpack 00 as an open source download on their site www.wtfidea.com/wtfiles-backpack-00-open-source-cad-pattern

In addition to releasing it into the wild on a few facebook groups, they also offered $250 to the first person who uploads a public, comprehensive assembly video in an attempt to inspire those who can assemble stuff but need a little nudge with design.

No takers so far, but the CAD file has been downloaded over 400 times.

Sneak Peek – Alpen Design Works Webstore

Saturday, July 16th, 2022

“Slow and Steady”

New webstore and products launching soon.

The addition of an Alpen Design Works webstore can be summed up by those three words. Mostly slow. Steadily slow.

ADW has delayed the launch of their own product several times to meet client needs, but they’re almost there.

Visit the website and sign up for the email list to get all the details.

DEVCOM, Army Special Forces Collaborate with International Partner to Test Additive Manufacturing Technology

Monday, May 30th, 2022

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. — On a battlefield in the future, Soldiers deployed to remote areas around the world will use sophisticated additive manufacturing printers to ‘print’ virtually everything they need, from food to shelter to weapons. The Army has made additive manufacturing a priority and Combat Capabilities Development Command, or DEVCOM, is supporting the effort with Project Prime, a collaboration with U.S. Army Special Forces and an international industry partner.

The Project Prime team consists of the U.S. Army 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), or 7th SFG (A); DEVCOM’s International Technology Center — United Kingdom, or ITC-UK; DEVCOM’s Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Combat systems, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Center, or C5ISR; and Defend3D, a company based in the United Kingdom that enables secure transmission of remote 3D printing.

Special Forces Soldiers tested the technology by repeatedly adding and printing additive manufacturing files using Defend3D’s Virtual Inventory Communication Interface, or VICI. VICI provides a server application that manages the virtual inventory, assigns rights to remote manufacturers and provides the product in a ‘one-click-print’ format with minimal training for the end-user to securely stream.

“Despite a network connection categorized commercially as having low to no connection, VICI facilitated speedy, secure and accurate printing. Based on expectations set at the beginning of the project, VICI did everything we needed it to do, and 7th SFG (A) was satisfied with the system performance and endorsed the capability for further development and implementation,” said Dr. Patrick Fowler, DEVCOM Global Technology advisor at ITC-UK.

Each DEVCOM ITC has a Global Technology advisor who scouts technology in their area of operation. Project Prime began when a DEVCOM global technology advisor was scouting additive manufacturing technology in the Atlantic region, which includes London, United Kingdom; Paris, France; Frankfurt, Germany; and Tel Aviv, Israel. The ITCs, which are part of DEVCOM’s global enterprise, serve as the forward-deployed ‘eyes and ears’ of the Army Science and Technology Enterprise. Other DEVCOM ITCs include: North America; South America; Northern Europe; Southern Europe; Northeast Asia; Southeast Asia and the Southern Hemisphere.

VICI ensures end-to-end encryption by enabling organizations to store their designs locally and use the virtual inventory to manufacture parts in remote locations. For example, a deployed Soldier communicates a need, such as a spare part or a modification to an existing part, to the computer-aided design, or CAD, element at 7th SFG (A). The CAD element either designs the part from scratch or selects from a database of commonly used parts. This is then streamed to the Soldier in the field, who prints the part. Because the file is never sent, VICI prevents adversaries from accessing the information and identifying vulnerabilities in equipment and capabilities.

“We made it a priority to pursue avenues that will allow us to operate in environments that are not conducive to regular resupply efforts. For detachments to stay in the fight in these environments, we explored systems that operate outside the conventional supply chains. Project Prime’s deployable 3D printer and VICI software enables secure transmission and an easy-to-use interface,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jesse Peters, Innovation Cell, 7th SFG (A).

Other benefits of the technology include:

The 3D printer operator does not need to be an expert in 3D printing to print the required files.

The interface prevents overloading the network since forward-deployed Soldiers only see objects they have requested for their mission.

It securely stores files in a sharable repository, including files created by the Department of Defense and coalition networks.

“Imagine this scenario — a clever Green Beret on a remote base develops a novel attachment for an existing Unmanned Aircraft System, which is stored in VICI. Then, a clever Airman across the world at a remote airfield sees it and adds his/her twist. Next, a British Soldier prints it and starts using it in his/her own operations,” Fowler said.

During the training event, feedback was gathered in real-time as the deployed Soldiers communicated with the 7th SFG (A) Innovation Cell. Other information was collected after the training, including the pros and cons of the system, software interface, training requirements and long-term durability.

7th SFG (A) plans to train more of their Soldiers on the technology to support a U.S. Army Southern Command deployment. Once the deployment is completed, ITC-UK will document all of the activities and achievements of Project Prime and make it available to the broader Department of Defense community. The information will benefit other DEVCOM centers and research laboratory, particularly the C5ISR Center, which focuses on securing communications to the tactical edge. The technology may also fill gaps with other Army units.

“We’re looking for funding to further develop VICI to make it operable on a cell phone or a small device, including a Raspberry Pi, which is a very small computer that plugs into a computer monitor, TV, or similar small end-user devices. This will make the solution, which is currently used on a laptop, even more deployable,” Fowler said.

By Argie Sarantinos, DEVCOM HQ Public Affairs

Kadri Clothing T-shirt Design Contest

Saturday, March 12th, 2022

How do you define strength? In today’s society, we tend to use a very male-oriented view of strength and power–physical might, physical ability, physical prowess. We say people are strong based on how much they can lift, the number of pullups performed, or athletic ability.

But what about other definitions of strength and power? Is a mother who works a full time job during the day, takes care of the household at night without losing her shit, strong? Is a young woman driven by her ambitions to succeed in a male-oriented profession while ignoring the naysayers and battling cultural norms, powerful?

Show us your definition of women’s strength and power. Design an original graphic concept and submit by March 31. Entries will be showcased in April; the winner will be selected by social media votes.

The design will be used as a limited-run t-shirt, available for purchase on the website. The winner will also receive Valkyrie Field Pants.

Send designs via DM to the IG account, but we’d prefer an email to info@kadriclothing.com

Subject for email should be: Art Contest Submission

Happy designing!

FirstSpear Friday Focus: NEW Patented LaserFrame Technology

Friday, January 14th, 2022

New patented LaserFrameTM technology, FirstSpear continues to innovate and develop cutting edge technologies to give war fighters and first responders the utmost edge. LaserFrame technology comes in a full suite of pockets. LaserFrame is a hemless design and construction that dramatically reduces weight, decreases the pocket’s footprint and retains its shape when empty, all of which combine to allow for a sleeker overall platform.

The LaserFrame line will come with our 6/9 attachment system that is compatible with our laser fusion 6/12 platforms as well as legacy MOLLE platforms. Expect to see variations of rifle pockets, pistol magazine pockets and accessories like the popular Fight Strap as we’ll be adding more pocket variations throughout 2022.

For more information about FirstSpear, check out First-Spear.com or First-Spear.tech.

Schübeler Technologies Supports Visionary Project of ETH Zurich

Friday, November 26th, 2021

Students realize bionic inspired morphing concept for the aircraft of tomorrow.
Rome, NY- A control concept inspired by nature and combined with morphing technology has now been realized by engineering students of ETH Zurich together with aviation experts. The eight-member student team is testing novel control concepts and construction methods in aviation. The aim is to reduce energy consumption and noise generation through reduced drag and to improve the maneuverability of the aircraft.

Schübeler Technologies actively supported this innovative project and provided both engines and technical expertise in an advisory capacity. “By participating in this project, we would like to contribute to the further development of aviation,” explains Daniel Schübeler, Managing Director of Schübeler Technologies. “The visionary approach of Bionic Flying Wing as well as the enthusiasm and creativity of the team excited us.”

The project aims to prove the feasibility of bionic inspired morphing concepts in the air. To this end, a deformable morphing wing structure with a three-meter wingspan was developed to be used in place of discrete flaps. A top speed of up to 100 km/h can be achieved with it. The wing structures are specifically deformed to replace conventional control surfaces. In this way, new design potential for the aircraft of tomorrow is opened up The main challenge of this approach is that the wing must be stiff – i.e., it must not flap – but still be able to be deflected. To achieve both, a healthy compromise had to be found. Because of its high strength and low weight, the team therefore opted for CFRP (carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer) as the construction material.

The requirements for the drive system used were also high. In the search for an efficient impeller that delivers the greatest possible thrust in combination with low power consumption, the team quickly came across EDF market leader Schübeler. On Schübeler’s recommendation, the team decided on the DS-51-AXI HDS model with an 1125kv motor and 12 lipo cells. This drive offers a thrust of 5.5 kg (about 55N) with a current consumption of 85 amps, which was perfectly suited for an aircraft of this speed, size and weight. Two fans are used and provide a total thrust of approximately 11kg (110N)

The HDS fan is a quality product designed for durability. The lightweight and highly shortened rotor assembly provides efficient operation through high smoothness. The blades are made of high-temperature, fiber-reinforced polymer, operate highly efficiently, broadband, and quietly. Strength is provided by the carbon shroud.

In a successful first test flight in June of this year, the team proved that bionic inspired morphing concepts can be used to safely control a flying wing aircraft. This was the product of countless hours of engineering and manufacturing, paired with the support of strong sponsors such as Schübeler Technologies.

To learn more about Schübeler Technologies, visit www.schuebeler-technologies.de.

Safariland and Flying Cross Launch Virtual Sizing Technology for Body Armor and Uniforms

Tuesday, December 1st, 2020

XpertFit™ is a Touchless, First-To-Market Innovation for Public Safety

JACKSONVILLE, Florida – Safariland®, a brand of The Safariland Group, a leading global provider of safety products, along with Flying Cross, a Fechheimer Brothers Company brand and global leader in public safety uniforms, announced today their collaborative launch of phase one of a new virtual sizing technology called XpertFit. This virtual sizing technology revolutionizes the process in which individual officers are sized for body armor and uniform apparel. XpertFit offers a touchless, self-measure method of capturing body measurements right from a mobile phone.

“This new sizing service really sets apart the level of innovation and depth of resources available to our customers as two leading industry brands,” said Bob Getto, President/CEO of Fechheimer Brothers Company, the parent company of Flying Cross. “XpertFit will provide our dealers and end users value and efficiencies they have not previously experienced up until now. In addition, XpertFit is the perfect solution during this heightened time of social distancing.”

XpertFit takes the guesswork out of onsite measuring by providing instant and accurate measurements from a smart device. The process takes less than 2 minutes to complete from initiating the technology until the time you are provided with product sizing.

Individuals will simply access the technology from a mobile device and choose their path to fit either body armor or uniforms. Next, the technology will gather general information and then take a front and side profile picture. This is then used to calculate measurements based on its uniquely developed algorithm, and determine a recommended size for Safariland body armor, or Flying Cross uniform apparel.

The new XpertFit technology will enter phase one of its release in early December to a select group of dealers and customers and will be ready for a full launch in Q2 of 2021. This first-to-market technology is an exclusive for Safariland and Flying Cross through their participating partnering dealers. XpertFit was created in partnership with 3DLOOK, the global leader in AI-first contactless body measuring and fit solutions.

“The proper fit of armor and uniforms is essential to duty and safety personnel, and our collaboration with 3DLOOK has allowed us to revolutionize the process.” said Brad Williams, President of Safariland. “Convenience and accuracy of measurements is a growing concern. XpertFit will allow the reflection of this urgency and efficiency to change the procurement process in an effort to save time and increase consumer confidence.”

“We’ve worked hard to bring this level of service to our customers,” said Getto. Every detail has been vetted from the algorithms, use in market, process flow and privacy of customer information. Being able to partner with Safariland to incorporate body armor makes this even more powerful. We are excited to see what this will do for our top customers, retailers, and internal teams as well.”

“We’ve had the pleasure of working with the amazing teams at both Fechheimer and The Safariland Group to deliver this first of a kind simple and accurate fit and sizing solution that delivers a contactless and safe measuring experience. This is a major step in digital transformation for the whole global uniform manufacturing industry,” said Vadim Rogovskiy, Co-founder and CEO at 3DLOOK.