Attachment system
Attachment systems for releasably securing an accessory to an article, such as a helmet, are disclosed. In one embodiment, an attachment system ( 100 ) includes an attachment plate ( 102 ) that includes engaging features ( 108, 110 ) which engage corresponding engagement features on an attachment base ( 104 ). At least one of the engaging features ( 110 ) on the attachment plate is associated with a flexible member ( 112 ), and is movable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration via deformation of the flexible member. A pair of grips ( 114 ) are provided on opposing ends of the flexible member, and the grips are pressed toward one another to move the movable engaging feature between the locked and unlocked configurations.
1. A method of operating an attachment system, the method comprising:
engaging a first engaging element of an attachment plate with a first corresponding engaging element on an attachment base;
deforming a flexible member on the attachment plate to move a second engaging element of the attachment plate toward an unlocked configuration, the second engaging element associated with the flexible member;
releasing the deformation of the flexible member to move the second engaging element toward a locked configuration in which the second engaging element of the attachment plate engages a second corresponding engaging element of the attachment base; and
further comprising receiving a boss associated with the flexible member in a guide channel on the attachment plate as the second engaging element of the attachment plate is moved from the locked configuration toward the unlocked configuration.