Collapsible Crash Pad Support Using Torsion Rod Energy Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rock climbing crash pads are heavy, bulky, and prone to sliding, which can compromise safety and convenience during falls.
Innovation Solution
A crash absorption device with horizontal torsion rods connected to bendable legs, designed to absorb energy through bending and torsion, which can be collapsed and stowed for easy transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If crash pads are made heavy and bulky to provide sufficient cushioning, then energy absorption capability is improved, but portability and ease of transport deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The crash absorption device is divided into multiple detachable components including torsion rods, bendable legs, cross members, and connectors. These segmented parts can be assembled to provide sufficient energy absorption capability when deployed, yet easily disassembled and packed for portable transport, resolving the contradiction between reliability and weight.
2Reliability
If crash pads are made bulky to absorb impact energy, then protective function is improved, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device components are designed to nest within each other during storage, with bendable legs collapsing alongside torsion rods and cross members. This nesting configuration dramatically reduces the volume required for storage and transport while maintaining the full protective function when assembled and deployed.
3Reliability
If crash pads are designed to be stable during use, then safety is improved, but ease of assembly and disassembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs dynamic connection mechanisms including removable connectors, detachable joints, and collapsible structures that provide stable interconnections during use but allow rapid assembly and disassembly. The torsion rods and bendable legs feature connection points that secure firmly during impact absorption yet can be quickly released for portability.
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 device effectively absorbs impacting energy, stabilizes crash pads to prevent sliding, and can be easily configured for transport and storage, enhancing safety and convenience for rock climbers.
Implementation Method 1
horizontal torsion rods connected to bendable legs that extend downward... elements that absorb energy via bending, torsion, or both
Implementation Method 2
horizontal torsion rods connected to bendable legs that extend downward... elements that absorb energy via bending, torsion, or both
Implementation Method 3
The torsion rods may include helical coils to allow the rods to twist and to bias them back into alignment
Data Source
AI summary
Crash absorption device for absorbing impacting energy, for example for cushioning falls. The crash absorption device may be used with a crash pad, by placing the crash absorption device under the pad. The pad may be secured in place so that it does not slide off the crash absorption. Crash absorption devices are energy absorbing and displacing apparatus typically placed on flooring or the ground beneath a crash pad to protect a falling object or person (for example a rock climber) from destructive impacting forces. Some devices are designed to be disassembled or folded for stowage. Crash absorption devices may include elements that absorb energy via bending, torsion, or both.