Adjustable Shin Guard Segmentation for Variable Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shin guards fail to provide a customizable fit for differently sized sport participants, particularly in youth sports where growth occurs over time, and in team sports where multiple participants with varying sizes need to use the same equipment.
Innovation Solution
The development of shin guards comprising two pieces that are removably connected and adjustable, with one piece being moldable and hardenable to accommodate varying shin sizes, and a toe guard assembly with a flexible band for adjustable positioning, along with a thigh and knee guard assembly connected by a wide flexible band to prevent twisting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional shin guards are designed with a fixed size and shape, then manufacturing is simple and cost-effective, but they cannot accommodate differently sized sport participants
Solution Approach 1:
The shin guard is divided into two separate pieces: a first piece with a fixed shape and size, and a second piece that is moldable and hardenable. These pieces are removably connected, allowing the second piece to be customized to different shin sizes while keeping the first piece standardized for simple manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the shin guard have different properties. The first piece has a fixed shape and size suitable for standardized production, while the second piece is made moldable and hardenable to provide localized customization. This allows each part to serve its specific function optimally.
2Adaptability or versatility
If shin guards are made customizable for different sizes, then they fit various participants better, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the shin guard into a standardized first piece and a customizable second piece, the manufacturing process is simplified. The first piece can be mass-produced using conventional methods, while only the second piece requires moldable and hardenable material processing, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The second piece utilizes materials that can change their physical parameters from moldable to hardenable state. This allows customization through material property changes rather than complex manufacturing processes, enabling size accommodation while keeping production relatively simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the shin guard structure is made adjustable with multiple pieces, then it provides better customization, but the device becomes more complex to assemble and use
Solution Approach 1:
The shin guard is segmented into two pieces that are removably connected, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly. The first piece remains fixed while the second piece can be adjusted and repositioned, providing customization without requiring complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The shin guard incorporates dynamic adjustability where the second piece can be repositioned and reconnected at different locations on the first piece. This dynamic adjustment capability allows users to customize the fit without permanent modifications, maintaining ease of operation through reversible changes.
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
This solution provides a customizable and adjustable leg guard system that fits various sizes, ensuring proper protection and reducing equipment costs by allowing a single guard to fit multiple participants, while maintaining stability and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
The example shin guards further comprise a second piece that is moldable and hardenable and is to cover those portions of the sport participant's shin that may be more variable or susceptible to changes in size
Data Source
AI summary
A shin guard may include an upper shin guard piece and a lower shin guard piece removably connected and overlapping the upper shin guard piece. A leg guard may include a toe guard releasably connected to a shin guard by a hook and loop fastener. A leg guard may include a knee guard, a thigh guard and a continuous flexible band underlying and connecting the thigh guard and the knee guard.