Back Protector with Anisotropic Stretch Zones for Morphology Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing back protectors are uncomfortable to wear, fail to maintain optimal positioning during movement, and do not adapt well to different body morphologies, particularly for women, while also being inflexible and aesthetically unappealing, often requiring placement under outer layers which restricts movement and is impractical for temperature regulation.

Innovation Solution

A back protector design featuring a bolero-style garment with flexible, anisotropically stretchable panels and a back panel with a pocket for the protective foam, allowing for adjustable and extensible carrying means that follow the body's movements, providing optimal protection and comfort by covering only the torso and allowing ease of movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a rigid articulated shell or foam with elastic shoulder straps is used, then back protection is provided, but carrying comfort deteriorates due to reduced surface contact and discomfort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveback protectionVSAvoidcarrying comfort

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces rigid articulated shells with flexible foam panels that conform to the body's contours. The carrying means use elastic straps with adjustable length that adapt to different body shapes, providing both protection and comfort through flexibility rather than rigidity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies the physical parameters of the protective means by using soft foam materials instead of rigid shells, and implements adjustable strap lengths to change the contact surface area and distribution of pressure, thereby improving carrying comfort while maintaining protection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the back protector is placed under the outer layer, then protection is provided, but freedom of movement is penalized and temperature regulation becomes impractical

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveprotectionVSAvoidfreedom of movement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses flexible foam panels and elastic carrying means that can be worn directly on the body without requiring placement under outer layers. The flexibility of the materials allows freedom of movement while providing protection, and the wearable design enables temperature regulation by allowing the user to adjust or remove the protector independently of outer clothing layers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Reliability

If a vest covering the entire trunk is used, then protection is provided, but stiffness penalizes ease of movement and the thorax is oppressed

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveprotectionVSAvoidease of movement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the protective means into separate panels (back panel, side panels, front panel) connected by elastic carrying means rather than using a single continuous vest structure. This segmentation allows each panel to move independently, reducing overall stiffness while maintaining protection coverage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the stiff vest structure with flexible foam panels and elastic straps that allow the thorax to expand and contract freely during movement and breathing, eliminating oppression while maintaining protective coverage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

4Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable straps are used, then adaptation to different morphologies is improved, but carrying comfort deteriorates due to reduced surface contact

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptation to morphologyVSAvoidcarrying comfort

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements carrying means with adjustable-length elastic straps that can accommodate various body sizes and morphologies. The same strap system serves multiple functions: adjusting to different user sizes, providing comfortable wear through increased surface contact, and maintaining secure positioning during movement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 ensures maximum protection during impact while maintaining comfort and freedom of movement, adapting to various morphologies, and can be worn under layers for flexibility and temperature regulation, enhancing overall carrying comfort and practicality.

Implementation Method 1

the second stretch zone has anisotropic stretch properties. The transverse tensile force necessary to obtain a 25% elongation of the panel forming the second stretch zone is less than the longitudinal tensile force necessary to obtain a 25% elongation of this panel

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAnisotropic elasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2965645B1Rucksack

Publication Date: 2017.10.18 SALOMON SA

AI summary

A load-carrying article (1) comprising a back panel (2) supporting a load (6) and two carrying means (3a, 3b), the ends (31a, 31b, 32a, 32b) of each carrying means being connected to the back panel, characterized in that each carrying means (3a, 3b) comprises a second extendable zone (Z2), at least in one transverse direction (T), the second extendable zone being located at the front of the user's torso.