Adjustable Helmet Tensioning for Ratchet-Free Infinite Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable helmets often rely on complex ratcheting systems and locking mechanisms, which are difficult to adjust quickly and can result in varying compression forces on different users' heads, making them unsuitable for users with varying head sizes.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable helmet design featuring a main shell with laterally flexible side portions and a secondary shell, coupled by a tensioning device that allows for infinite size adjustment without ratcheting, ensuring equal compression forces across different head sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex ratcheting systems and locking mechanisms are used in adjustable helmets, then the helmet can accommodate varying head circumferences, but the adjustment process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using a tensioning device that adjusts the tension parameter to accommodate different head circumferences. The tensioning device allows continuous adjustment of the helmet's internal volume by changing the tension parameter, eliminating the need for discrete ratcheting positions while maintaining adaptability to various head sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the complex ratcheting and locking mechanisms from the helmet design, replacing them with a simpler tensioning device. This removal of unnecessary components simplifies the adjustment process while preserving the ability to accommodate varying head circumferences, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex ratcheting systems and locking mechanisms are used in adjustable helmets, then the helmet can accommodate varying head circumferences, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the complex ratcheting and locking mechanisms from the helmet design, replacing them with a simpler tensioning device. This reduction in system complexity maintains the adaptability to varying head circumferences while eliminating unnecessary mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by adjusting the tension parameter through a simple tensioning device rather than using complex mechanical systems. This approach maintains the ability to accommodate different head sizes while significantly reducing the complexity of the adjustment system.
3Device complexity
If fixed-size molded plastic shells are used, then the helmet structure is simple, but users with varying head sizes cannot utilize the same helmet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the helmet into a main shell and an adjustable interior system with a tensioning device. This segmentation allows the outer shell to remain simple while the interior components provide adaptability to different head sizes, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and fit versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamics by incorporating a tensioning device that allows the helmet's internal volume and shape to be dynamically adjusted. This dynamic adjustment capability enables a single helmet structure to adapt to various head sizes, maintaining structural simplicity while achieving versatility in fit.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design provides a simplified and secure fit that accommodates varying head sizes with consistent compression forces, enhancing user comfort and ease of adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
A first end of the tensioning device is coupled to the first side portion and a second end of the tensioning device is coupled to the second side portion so as to provide a tension force between the first side portion and the second side portion
Implementation Method 2
The first side portion and the second side portion are laterally flexible with respect to one another
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable helmet includes a first shell, a second shell, and a size adjustment mechanism. The first shell includes a first side portion and a second side portion. The second shell is positioned between the first side portion and the second side portion. The first side portion and the second side portion of the first shell (a) at least partially overlap the second shell and (b) are laterally flexible with respect to one another to facilitate adjusting a size of the first shell between a minimum size and a maximum size. The size adjustment mechanism includes a tensioner extending between the first side portion and the second side portion. The size adjustment mechanism facilitates ratchet-less and infinite adjustment of the size of the first shell between the minimum size and the maximum size without requiring user manipulation of the size adjustment mechanism.