Adjustable Helmet Jaw Flap for Vision and Protection Trade-off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective jaw flaps in helmets are not adjustable, leading to potential obstruction of the line of vision and varying comfort levels for batters in baseball and softball, as they cannot be customized to individual preferences regarding positioning and protection.
Innovation Solution
A two-part adjustable protective helmet jaw flap system, comprising an adaptor member and a flap member, which can be pivotally attached to existing helmets, allowing for rotation and adjustment to accommodate different preferences for protection and vision clearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the protective jaw flap is fixed in position, then the protection coverage is maximized, but the line of vision may be obstructed and comfort varies for different batters
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw flap is made adjustable through a series of attachment points and fastening mechanisms, allowing it to be repositioned dynamically. The flap can be moved between multiple fixed positions along the cheekbone area, enabling batters to optimize both protection coverage and visual clearance according to their individual needs and preferences.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the protective jaw flap extends further forward, then more face protection is provided, but the batter's vision and comfort are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into multiple discrete attachment points distributed along the cheekbone area. This segmentation allows the jaw flap to be positioned at different locations, creating a modular system where protection extent can be independently adjusted from vision requirements. The flap can be attached at any of several points to achieve the desired balance between coverage and clearance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the protective jaw flap is made customizable, then individual batter preferences are accommodated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism utilizes simple movable and fixed attachment points connected by fasteners that can be easily engaged and disengaged. The system provides customization through a series of predetermined positions rather than continuous adjustment, maintaining simplicity while achieving adaptability. The flap can be repositioned by the user without requiring complex tools or mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable jaw flap is provided that may be selectively attachable with the ear flap of a batter's helmet used in batted ball sports such as baseball or softball. The jaw flap may include each of an adaptor member and a flap member. The adaptor member may be attached to the batter's helmet at or near the helmet's ear flap. The flap member may be attached to the adaptor member at its lower end by a pin. An interior portion of the flap member preferably includes male attachment points that may be selectively attachable with female attachment points found at the upper portion of the adaptor member's exterior. When the flap member is rotated, more or fewer attachment points may be selectively engaged with one another, thus allowing a user to adjust the relative position of the jaw flap.